Definition

A short-term, high-interest loan designed to cover expenses until your next paycheck. Use with caution due to high costs.

What to consider

  • Reserve these for genuine emergencies only.
  • Be aware of the very high interest rates and fees.
  • Explore alternative options before taking one out.

Real world scenarios

  • In an emergency, Marcus considers a payday loan but is wary of high fees. He shops around for more affordable alternatives first.
  • Lana uses a payday loan for unexpected medical bills. Realizing the steep interest, she repays it quickly to avoid a debt cycle.
  • Public resources help Angela explore budget strategies to steer clear of payday loans, focusing on building a small emergency cushion.

Related terms

Debt & Loans