Best Payday Loan Alternatives in California of September 2026
| Lender: | Loan Amount: | APR: | Terms: | Min. Credit Score: | Best For: | Type: | Apply: |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ZippyLoan |
$100 – $15,000 | 5.99% – 35.99% | 6 – 60 months | 0 | Bad or no credit | Bad Credit Online Lender | Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect |
PersonalLoans |
$1,000 – $35,000 | 5.99% – 35.99% | 3 - 72 months | 580 | Short and long-term personal loans | Online lender | Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect |
Upgrade |
$1,000 – $50,000 | 7.99% - 35.99% | 2 – 7 Years | 580 | High DTI ratios | Online lender | Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect |
LendingPoint |
$2,000 – $36,500 | 7.99% – 35.99% | 2 – 7 years | 580 | $25,000 annual income | Online lender | Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect |
Upstart |
$1,000 – $75,000 | 6.6% - 35.99% | 3 or 5 years | 300 | Low credit scores, high DTI ratios | Bad credit online lender | Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect |
OppLoans |
$500 – $4,000 | 59% – 160% | 9 – 18 Months | 0 | Really bad credit | Alternative Payday Loans for Really Bad Credit | Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect |
NetCredit |
$1,000 - $10,100 | 36% – 155% | 1 – 5 Years | 0 | Flexible terms and APRs | Alternative Payday Loans for Really Bad Credit | Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect |
FigLoans |
$50 – $150 | 35.99% – 211% | 1 – 6 Months | 0 | Short-term bad credit loans | Alternative Payday Loans for Really Bad Credit | Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect |
WorldFinance |
$450 – $10,000 | 27.5% – 81.29% | 6 Months – 4 Years | Not listed | Bad Credit | Alternative Payday Loans for Really Bad Credit | Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect |
RiseCredit |
$500 – $5,000 | 36% – 299% | 4 – 26 Months | 0 | No-fee bad credit loans | Alternative Payday Loans for Really Bad Credit | Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect |
SpeedyCash |
$1,000 – $5,000 | 37% – 199%+ | 4 – 26 Months | Not listed | California residents | Alternative Payday Loans for Really Bad Credit | Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect |
Dave |
Up to $500 | 0% | 1 month | 0 | Low fees | Loan App | Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect |
MoneyLion |
Up to $250 | 0% | Repay with your next paycheck | 0 | Online services | Loan App | Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect |
SoLo Funds |
$20 - $575 | 0% | Up to 35 days | 0 | Repayment flexibility | Loan App | Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect |
Brigit |
Up to $250 | 0% | Repay manually or with your next paycheck | 0 | Budgeting tools | Loan App | Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect |
Earnin |
Up to $150/Day or $750/Period | 0% | Repay manually via money order or with your next paycheck | 0 | Low fees | Loan App | Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect |
Albert |
Up to $250 | 0% | Repay manually via money order or with your next paycheck | 0 | Low fees | Loan App | Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect |
First Tech Federal |
$500 – $50,000 | 7.70% – 18% | 24 – 84 months | 660 | Fast Online Application | Credit Union | Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect |
SchoolsFirst Credit Union |
$500 – $30,000 | 7% – 18% | 4 – 60 months | 580 | Consolidating higher-interest debt. | Credit Union | Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect |
| Earnin |
Up to $150/Day or $750/Period | 0% | Repay manually via money order or with your next paycheck | 0 | Low fees | Loan App | Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect |
Payday loans are a very expensive option, with APR averaging 400%. Most payday loan lenders in CA promote them as the only option for people with bad credit. We don’t recommend payday loans because they are expensive and often lead to a debt cycle. Many other payday loan alternatives available have much lower interest rates.
Additionally, laws are in place to protect consumers from excessively high-interest rates on payday loans in California. Payday loans are illegal in CA. The laws allow short-term loans that cap their APR at 25%. This relatively low number significantly lowers your fees and the risk of the debt cycle.
Payday loans should be avoided if possible because of their high costs and the risk of getting stuck in a debt cycle.
You can get a loan if you are with bad credit. We will guide you on all options. Let’s first give you an overview of the options brief, and below, we will discuss them.
Best Payday Loan Alternatives of September 2026: Key Findings
You may have heard that some lenders will give you a personal loan if your credit is terrible in California. And, indeed they do offer these types of loans but with high-interest rates and annual percentage tabs (APR) ranging from 15% to 35.99%. However, here at ElitePersonalFinance, we recommend different options for people like yourself; we start off by offering legitimate personal loans of amounts up to $250K based on an individual’s needs as well as blended into millions just like yours!
Payday Loan Alternatives. These new types of lenders have more expensive APR than traditional personal loans but are less expensive than payday loans. They approve with terrible credit. We will give you the best work in California.
Loan Apps. Many apps offer payday alternatives, and some of them are with 0 interest. Most of them are no credit checks. The catch? There are fees, but in all, times cheaper than payday loans. We will show you the best of them in California.
Buy Now Pay Later. Many offer loans for purchases. Some are with 0 APR. Most of them are no credit checks. The catch? There are fees, but in all, times cheaper than payday loans. We will show you the best of them in California.
Credit Unions in California. Some of them can help you because they see your credit score and other factors like income, DTI, etc. Some offer PAL, a payday loan alternative in California.
Why Trust ElitePersonalFinance Guides?
We scrutinize over 100 lenders and research their characteristics, policies, and terms. Most importantly, we consult several sources to ensure that our curated list of the best payday loan alternatives and laws in California is comprehensive and up-to-date.
We also provide clear guidance on how each lender works so you can make an informed decision about which one is right. In addition, we only work with legit lenders and will never recommend any loan or service that is abusive.
Using our list, you can easily find the best payday alternative for your situation and take advantage of this industry’s latest developments! We highly suggest looking at the options if you need cash and have bad credit.
Our Marketplace
We are the largest independent finance marketplace in the United States. We have access to hundreds of lenders to help you get the best deal on payday loan alternatives and laws in California. We work with licensed, reputable lenders that offer competitive interest rates, low fees, and excellent customer service.
We also have a 100% online application process that allows you to apply for a personal loan from the comfort of your home. We’ll match you with a lender that is best suited to your financial profile and will provide you with the loan amount you need.
Our mission is to make sure that no one has to take out an expensive payday loan ever again. We want everyone to have access to suitable financial products to help them build better financial habits, even with bad credit.
Personal Loans for Bad Credit
There are many legit personal loan lenders for bad credit in California. These lenders look at more than just your credit score. They also consider other factors, such as income and debt-to-income ratio, to determine if you’re a good fit for their loan products.
Most of these lenders offer low-interest rates, flexible repayment terms, and no hidden fees. We’ve compiled a list of the best personal loans for bad credit, and you can apply for one right now!
So if you need cash fast, check the lenders below or check out our comprehensive guide of the best personal loan lenders for bad credit in California.
ZippyLoan
Fees
- No fee to use ZippyLoan's loan-connecting service
- No hidden fees for using ZippyLoan
- APR and loan fees are determined by the individual lender
- Loan costs vary based on lender, state, loan amount, credit profile, and repayment terms
- Late or missed payment fees may apply according to the lender's loan agreement
- No prepayment penalty
- All applicable lender fees and charges are disclosed in the lender's loan agreement
Qualification Criteria
- Minimum age: 18
- Must provide proof of identity
- Must have a regular source of income
- Must provide personal, income, employment, and banking information requested by the lender
- All credit types may be considered
- Credit score and credit history may be considered
- Monthly income may be considered
- State of residence may affect eligibility
- Lenders may verify identity, income, employment, bank-account information, and credit information
- Final eligibility requirements are determined by the individual lender
- Not available to residents of New York, West Virginia, or Oregon
- Not all applicants will qualify
Average Borrower Profile
- ZippyLoan does not publish a current average funded-borrower loan amount
- ZippyLoan does not publish a current average borrower credit score
- The lender network includes lenders serving excellent, average, and poor credit profiles
- Credit history, income, state of residence, requested loan amount, and other information may affect available offers
- Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the individual lender
Best For
- Bad or no credit
ZippyLoan is an excellent payday loan alternative in California because it offers competitive rates of between 5.99% and 35.99%, flexible repayment terms of 6 months and five years, and no hidden fees. The process is straightforward, and you’ll get your money fast. Plus, ZippyLoan works with a variety of lenders so you can find the best loan for your individual needs.
ZippyLoan offers bad credit loans of amounts from $100 to $15,000. However, unlike many of the individual loan lenders on our list, such as Upgrade, ZippyLoan has no income requirements. To be eligible, borrowers must provide proof of income and be at least 18 years old.
ZippyLoan sends you a list of direct lenders that offer the best rates and terms tailored to your unique situation. Plus, they will never put you through a hard credit check.
Additionally, while most personal loan bad credit lenders on ZippyLoan don’t charge prepayment fees, loan origination and late payment fees vary by each lender on the platform.
Pros:
- ZippyLoan has a fast and easy application process.
- Flexible repayment terms of between 6 and 60 months.
- Most lenders on ZippyLoan do not charge prepayment fees.
- Access to a variety of lenders.
- Offers personal loan amounts of $100 to $15,000.
Cons:
- High-interest rates for borrowers with bad credit.
- Origination and late payment fees vary by each lender.
- Bad credit borrowers might pay more than 35.99% APRs.
The Impact of Covid-19:
Since ZippyLoan is a P2P platform, the company doesn’t have any specific hardship programs for borrowers affected by the pandemic. However, if you need assistance in your loan repayment, you can apply for a custom hardship waiver at ZippyLoan via 1-844-379-8621 or at support@zippyloan.com.
PersonalLoans
Fees
- No fee to use PersonalLoans.com's loan-connecting service
- Origination fee may apply and is determined by the individual lender
- Other lender fees may apply depending on the loan offer and agreement
- Late payment fees may apply according to the lender's terms
- Returned payment and other lender fees may apply
- PersonalLoans.com does not determine lender fees or loan costs
- All applicable fees must be disclosed by the lender before the borrower accepts the loan
Qualification Criteria
- Minimum age: 18
- Must have a valid Social Security number
- Must be a legal U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Must have full-time employment, be self-employed, or receive regular disability or Social Security benefits
- Must have a valid checking account for most loan offers
- No minimum credit score is required to submit a loan request
- Must generally not have accounts more than 60 days late
- Must generally not have active or recent bankruptcies
- Must generally not have a pattern of late payments
- Must generally not have debt that cannot be covered by current income
- Must generally not have recently charged-off accounts
- Some lenders may require income verification such as a pay stub
- Individual lenders may have additional eligibility requirements
- Not all applicants will qualify
Average Borrower Profile
- PersonalLoans.com does not publish a current average funded-borrower loan amount or average borrower credit score
- The lender network accepts loan requestors with all credit scores
- Applicants with good or excellent credit may receive more favorable terms
- PersonalLoans.com states that its network generally serves borrowers with different credit profiles
- Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the individual lender and the borrower's qualifications
Best For
- Short and long-term personal loans
PersonalLoan is a great payday loan alternative lender because it offers competitive rates of between 5.99% and 35.99%, flexible repayment terms ranging from 90 days to six years, and many lenders in one place. The process is straightforward, and you’ll get your money fast. Plus, PersonalLoan works with a variety of lenders so you can find the best loan for your individual needs.
PersonalLoans offers bad credit loans of amounts from $1,000 to $35,000. To qualify for a loan, you must have a minimum credit score of 580, a maximum DTI ratio of 43%, and recurring employment income or government benefits. Additionally, you should not have a record of late payments, charge-offs, or bankruptcies.
Nonetheless, this lender charges a loan origination fee of 1% to 5%, and you may incur late payment fees after a 15-day grace period. Most lenders don’t charge prepayment fees, though.
PersonalLoan stands out because it makes work easier for you by analyzing multiple quotes in one place. Thus, you will save time researching your best offers. Additionally, PersonalLoan matches your credit profile with its network of lenders, meaning that you can be sure to find the best offer for your particular situation.
Pros:
- PersonalLoans offers loans up to $35,000.
- The application process is fast and straightforward.
- Flexible repayment terms from 90 days to six years.
- No prepayment fees on most loans.
- Low-interest rates than payday loans ranging from 5.99% to 35.99%.
Cons:
- Higher interest rates for borrowers with bad credit.
- Origination and late payment fees vary by each lender in the network.
- A minimum credit score of 580 is required to qualify for a loan.
The Impact of Covid-19:
PersonalLoans is a p2p site and does not lend loans directly. Furthermore, lenders on the PersonalLoans platform set their deferral and forbearance policies. As a result, you must consult with your lender to explore your choices.
Upgrade
Fees
- Origination fee of 1.85% – 9.99% of the loan amount
- Origination fee is deducted from the loan proceeds
- Late payment fee of up to $10 if the full payment is not received within 15 calendar days of the due date
- Failed electronic or check payment fee of $10 per occurrence
- One-time title transfer fee may apply to certain secured loans; amount is determined by the local motor vehicle agency
- No application fee
- No prepayment penalty
Qualification Criteria
- Minimum age: 18, or 19 in Alabama and certain other states
- Must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or living in the U.S. on a valid visa
- Must provide a verifiable bank account
- Must provide a valid email address
- Credit score, credit usage, and credit history are considered
- Income and employment information are considered during the final review
- Debt-to-income ratio and existing debt obligations may be considered
- May be required to provide proof of income, identity, employment, or other documentation
- W-2 employees may provide gross income; self-employed applicants may provide net income
- Checking your rate uses a soft credit inquiry and does not affect your credit score
- A hard credit inquiry occurs after the loan is funded
- Certain secured loan offers may require collateral
- Loan amounts and terms may vary by state
- Not all applicants will qualify
Average Borrower Profile
- Upgrade does not currently publish a verified average funded personal-loan amount or average borrower credit score
- Loan offers depend on credit score, credit usage history, income, requested loan amount, and other financial information
- Upgrade's current personal-loan product is designed for borrowers across a range of credit profiles
- Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the applicant's qualifications
Best For
- High DTI ratios
Upgrade is an outstanding payday loan alternative for borrowers with high DTI ratios needing short-term loan solutions. This lender offers lower interest rates than payday loans of between 7.99% to 35.99%. Upgrade offers bad credit loans of up to $50,000 with flexible payment terms of up to seven years. However, it would help if you had a minimum credit score of 580 and a maximum DTI ratio of 75% to qualify for this loan.
There is also an origination fee of 1.85% to 9.99%. Upgrade charges a late payment fee of $10 and an insufficient funds fee of $10. Most importantly, there is no prepayment penalty associated with this loan.
Upgrade is a unique bad credit loan lender because it offers cosigner and secured loan application options for borrowers who don’t qualify for an unsecured personal loan.
One drawback of Upgrade is they don’t finance monthly expenditures like rent, which could affect the loan repayment. Borrowers must ensure they can afford the monthly payments before taking out a loan.
If you have a credit score of over 700, you may qualify for better rates with this lender.
Pros:
- Competitive interest rates of between 7.99% to 35.99%.
- Extended repayment terms of up to seven years.
- No prepayment penalty.
- Upgrade offers an Auto-pay discount of 0.5%.
- Secured and cosigner loan options for borrowers with terrible credit.
Cons:
- A minimum credit score of 580 is required.
- An origination fee ranging from 1.85% to 9.99%
- Not ideal for paying rent or other monthly bills.
- Higher rates for borrowers with lower credit scores.
The Impact of Covid-19:
If you’re struggling to make your loan payments because of job loss caused by the pandemic, you may qualify for a monthly installment reduction. Additionally, you can get a modification of your loan terms. Find more information here.
Upgrade Disclaimer:
Personal loans made through Upgrade feature Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) of 7.74%-35.99% and a 1.85%-9.99% origination fee, which is deducted from the loan proceeds. Lowest rates require Autopay and paying off a portion of existing debt directly. For certain discounts, collateral may be required. Repayment terms from 24 to 84 months. For example, if you receive a $10,000 unsecured loan with a 36-month term and a 17.59% APR (which includes a 13.94% yearly interest rate and a 5% one-time origination fee), you would receive $9,500 and would have a required monthly payment of $341.48. Over the life of the loan, your payments would total $12,293.46. The APR and other terms of your loan may vary and you may not be presented with multiple offers. If offered, your loan terms, including your rate, will depend on credit score, credit usage history, loan amount, and other factors. Late payments or other fees, as noted in your Borrower Agreement, may increase the cost of your fixed rate loan. Certain loan offers may not be available in all states.
After acceptance, your funds will be sent within one (1) business day of clearing necessary verifications. Funds availability is dependent upon your bank’s transaction processing time and may take up to 2 weeks if sent directly to third party creditors.
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LendingPoint
Fees
- Origination fee of up to 10% of the loan amount may apply depending on the state
- Origination fee may be deducted from the loan proceeds
- No application fee
- No prepayment penalty
- No fee for making extra payments
- Actual fees depend on state of residence and loan offer
- Actual APR and fees depend on credit profile, financial condition, loan amount, term, and other underwriting factors
Qualification Criteria
- Minimum age: 18
- Must provide a U.S. federal, state, or local government-issued photo ID
- Must have a valid Social Security number
- Must have minimum annual income of $35,000 from employment, retirement, or another qualifying source
- Must have a verifiable personal banking account in your name
- Must not reside in Nevada or West Virginia
- Credit profile and credit history are considered
- Debt-to-income ratio may be considered
- Payment-to-income ratio may be considered
- Financial condition and ability to repay are evaluated
- Checking your options uses a soft credit inquiry and does not affect your credit score
- A hard credit inquiry is required for final loan approval
- Additional documentation may be requested
- Not all applicants will qualify
Average Borrower Profile
- LendingPoint does not publish a current average funded-borrower loan amount
- LendingPoint serves consumers across a broad range of credit profiles
- The loan amount offered is based on the applicant's credit profile and financial information
- Current DTI and PTI are specifically considered when determining affordability
- Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the applicant's qualifications
Best For
- $25,000 annual incomes
LendingPoint is an outstanding payday loan alternative because it offers competitive rates of 7.99% – 35.99%, better than payday loans. They also provide loan amounts ranging from $2,000 to $36,500 and flexible repayment terms of up to five years. You must have a minimum credit score of 580 and an annual income of at least $25,000 to qualify for this loan.
LendingPoint charges a loan origination fee of 0% to 6%, a late payment fee of up to $30, and an insufficient funds fee of $20. Fortunately, this lender does not charge any prepayment penalty or hidden costs.
LendingPoint is a unique payday loan alternative lender because it offers fast application and approval.
A downside of LendingPoint is that they have a maximum DTI ratio requirement of 50%, which could be challenging to meet if you’re trying to manage multiple loans or debts. Additionally, LendingPoint does not offer loans in Nevada and West Virginia.
Pros:
- Competitive interest rates of between 7.99% and 35.99%.
- Extended repayment terms of up to five years.
- No prepayment penalties or hidden fees.
- Fast application and approval process.
- Wide alternative payday loans of up to $36,500.
Cons:
- A minimum credit score of 580 is required.
- LendingPoint has an origination fee ranging from 0% to 6%.
- A maximum DTI ratio requirement of 50%.
- Not available in Nevada and West Virginia.
The Impact of Covid-19:
LendingPoint doesn’t have specific programs to help borrowers affected by the pandemic, but they offer a wide range of loan options with competitive rates. You can get personalized assistance by contacting their customer service team at 1-888-969-0959 or customerservice@lendingpoint.com.
Upstart
Fees
- Origination fee of 0% – 12% of the loan amount
- Late payment fee of 5% of the past-due amount or $15, whichever is greater, if payment is more than 10 calendar days late
- ACH return fee of $15 per occurrence
- Returned check fee of $15 per occurrence
- Paper copies fee of $10 if eSign consent is withdrawn and paper records are requested
- No prepayment penalty
- Exact fees are disclosed in the loan agreement and may vary by creditor, loan terms, and state
Qualification Criteria
- Minimum age: 18
- Must be a U.S. resident
- Minimum annual income of $12,000 is required to apply
- Must provide valid personal and financial information
- Must have sufficient income and ability to repay the loan
- Credit history and credit profile are considered
- Debt-to-income ratio and existing debt obligations may be considered
- Employment history and income stability may be considered
- Upstart may consider W-2, self-employment, gig, freelance, retirement, disability, Social Security, pension, and other eligible income
- Upstart's model considers income, employment, education, and other factors beyond credit history
- No minimum educational attainment is required
- Checking your rate uses a soft credit inquiry and does not affect your credit score
- A hard credit inquiry is performed if you proceed with the formal application
- Additional documentation may be required
- Minimum loan amounts vary by state: $3,100 in Georgia, $1,500 in Hawaii, and $7,000 in Massachusetts
- Not all applicants will qualify
Average Borrower Profile
- Upstart does not currently publish a current average funded personal-loan amount or average borrower credit score
- Upstart had more than 4 million customers as of June 30, 2026
- Upstart's underwriting model evaluates more than 2,500 variables
- In a 2026 comparison using Upstart data from 2025, the Upstart model approved 41% more applicants and produced rates 33% lower than a hypothetical traditional model
- More than 3 million borrowers had selected debt consolidation or credit-card refinancing as their use of funds as of June 30, 2026
- Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the applicant's qualifications
Best For
- Low credit scores, high DTI ratios
Terms: Your loan amount will be determined based on your credit, income, and certain other information provided in your loan application. Not all applicants will qualify for the full amount. Minimum loan amounts vary by state: GA ($3,100), HI ($2,100), MA ($7,000).
Although educational information is collected as part of Upstart’s rate check process, neither Upstart nor its bank partners have a minimum educational attainment requirement in order to be eligible for a loan.
The full range of available rates varies by state. A representative example of payment terms for a Personal Loan is as follows: a borrower receives a loan of $10,000 for a term of 60 months, with an interest rate of 18.44% and a 8.64% origination fee of $864, for an APR of 22.88%. In this example, the borrower will receive $9,136 and will make 60 monthly payments of $257. Your APR will be determined based on your credit, income, and certain other information provided in your loan application. Not all applicants will be approved.
If you accept your loan by 5pm EST (not including weekends or holidays), you will receive your funds the next business day. Loans used to fund education related expenses are subject to a 3 business day wait period between loan acceptance and funding in accordance with federal law.
While most loans through Upstart are unsecured, certain lenders may place a lien on other accounts you hold with the same institution. It is important to review your promissory note for these details before accepting your loan.
When you check your rate, we check your credit report. This initial (soft) inquiry will not affect your credit score. If you accept your rate and proceed with your application, we do another (hard) credit inquiry that will impact your credit score. If you take out a loan, repayment information may be reported to the credit bureaus.
The APR calculation compares the two models based on the average APR offered to borrowers up to the same approval rate. The hypothetical credit-score only model used in Upstart’s analysis was developed in connection with the CFPB No Action Letter access-to-credit testing program and was built from a traditional credit score only model trained on Upstart platform data. APR for the scorecard was averaged for each given traditional credit score grouping.
While automated recurring payments are easy to set up, payments by check or one time electronic payments can also be used to repay a loan. Borrowers have the flexibility to choose the repayment method that works best for them.
This information is based on actual borrowers as of 4/1/2023 who identified “credit card refinancing” as their primary use of funds and paid off at least 51% of their outstanding credit card debt within 3 months of taking out the loan. Out of these actual borrowers, some could have experienced an increase or decrease in their credit score. This information reflects the overall average change in credit score points experienced by this group of borrowers as identified above.
The majority of borrowers on the Upstart marketplace are able to receive an instant decision upon submitting a completed application, without providing additional supporting documents, however final approval is conditioned upon passing the hard credit inquiry. Loan processing may be subject to longer wait times if additional documentation is required for review.
Upstart is an excellent alternative to payday loans in California because the lender offers personal loans with competitive APRs of 6.6% – 35.99%. They also permit loan amounts ranging from $1,000 to $75,000 and flexible repayment terms of three to five years. You must have a credit score of at least 300 and a DTI ratio that doesn’t exceed 45% – 50% (excluding rent/mortgage) to qualify for this loan.
Upstart charges a loan origination fee of 0% – 12%, a late payment fee of 5% of the amount due, or $15, whichever is greater, after a 15-day grace period, an insufficient funds fee of $15, and a paper documents fee of $10. Fortunately, this lender does not charge any prepayment fees.
An upside of Upstart is that the minimum credit score required for approval is 300, so many bad credit borrowers can be eligible. In addition, Upstart has an AI risk model that approves more borrowers than traditional lenders and offers lower APRs.
Additionally, their maximum DTI ratio requirement is 45% to 50%, so the borrower might need to lower their monthly payments to qualify.
Pros:
- Affordable interest rates of 6.6% – 35.99%.
- Wide loan amounts up to $75,000.
- Flexible repayment schedules of three to five years are available with Upstart.
- Lower minimum credit score requirements of 300.
- No prepayment penalties or hidden fees.
Cons:
- A maximum DTI ratio of 45% to 50%.
- Upstart charges an origination fee ranging from 0%-12%.
- Upstart charges insufficient funds fees of $10.
- Paper documents fee of $10.
- Upstart charges a late payment fee of $15, or 5% of the amount due, after a 15-day grace period.
The Impact of Covid-19:
Upstart has several forbearance options for borrowers affected by the pandemic, allowing them to pause payments or extend the repayment period with no additional charge. If you need help, contact their customer service at 1-855-451-6753 or submit an online request.
Payday Loan Alternatives
Consider a payday loan alternative if you can’t qualify for a bad credit personal loan in California. These loans are similar to traditional payday loans but have more flexible repayment terms and lower interest rates.
One of the best things about payday loan alternatives is that they are no-credit-checks. Thus, they don’t have a minimum credit score requirement. This means that even borrowers with bad credit can be eligible. Additionally, most alternative payday loan lenders in California offer approval within one day, so you can quickly get the money you need.
Payday loan alternatives also offer lower APRs of up to 300%, lower than payday loans (400%). However, since their rates are higher than all bad credit personal loan lenders, ensure to borrow from alternative payday loans if it’s your last option.
Nevertheless, here are the best alternative payday loans in California.
OppLoans
Fees:
- No origination fees
- No application fees
- No prepayment penalties
- No hidden fees
- Late payment and returned-payment fees may apply according to the applicable loan agreement and state
- Actual fees, loan amount, APR, and terms may vary by state
- Simple fixed-rate interest applies to loans originated through the OppLoans Platform
Qualification Criteria:
- Minimum age: 18
- Must have a bank account, including a checking or savings account
- Must reside in a state where OppLoans currently operates
- Must have a regular source of income
- Must receive income through direct deposit
- No minimum credit score is required
- Credit information from Clarity Services and Experian may be considered
- Income, ability to repay, application information, and overall creditworthiness may be considered
- Applications are subject to verification and the underwriting requirements of OppLoans' bank partners
- Not all applicants will qualify
Average Borrower Profile:
- OppLoans does not publish a current average funded-loan amount or average borrower credit score
- OppLoans serves borrowers who may have difficulty obtaining credit from traditional lenders
- OppLoans' bank partners consider factors beyond traditional credit-score information
- Borrowers with lower credit may still qualify based on income, ability to repay, and other factors
- Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the applicant's qualifications and state
Best For
- Bad or no credit
OppLoans is an excellent alternative payday lender that offers alternative payday loans of up to $4,000. You can get approved for a loan in as little as one day, which can help you cover your expenses quickly. Additionally, the lender offers affordable interest rates of 59% to 160%, flexible repayment terms of 9 to 18 months, and no minimum credit score requirement.
To determine your eligibility, OppLoans looks at your recent transaction history, bank account balance, and banking history. The lender doesn’t check your credit score, but some evidence of income is required to qualify for the loan, usually an average of $18,000 per annum.
OppLoans doesn’t charge any fees apart from the interest rate, so you don’t worry about prepayment penalties, late payments, or origination fees.
The lender also offers loan refinance options to borrowers who pay at least 15% of their loan amount, or $400. OppLoans offers a hardship program that allows borrowers to pause payments if they experience financial difficulties.
Pros:
- OppLoans offers loans up to $4,000.
- Interest rates range from 59% to 160%, lower than payday loans.
- OppLoans offers one-day approval and flexible repayment terms of 9 to 18 months.
- No minimum credit score requirement and no hidden fees.
- OppLoans also provides loan refinance options and a hardship program.
Cons:
- The APR charged by OppLoans is higher than bad credit personal loan lenders in California.
- OppLoans offers lower loan amounts than many installment loan companies on our list.
- Limited loan terms.
The Impact of Covid-19:
OppLoans has a hardship program for people affected by the pandemic who can’t meet payments on time. Find out more about how you can get assistance at the lender’s Covid-19 resource center or contact OppLoans at (800) 990-9130 or info@opploans.com.
NetCredit
Fees:
- No application fee
- No prepayment fee
- No insufficient-funds fee
- No late payment fee for personal installment loans originated on or after March 12, 2025
- Origination fee may apply depending on the state and specific loan agreement
- Applicable state-specific fees and charges are disclosed in the loan agreement
- Personal loans use simple interest with fixed payments
- No collateral is required
Qualification Criteria:
- Minimum age: 18
- Must have a valid personal checking account
- Must have an active email address
- Must have a verifiable source of income
- Must provide the personal and financial information requested during the application
- Credit score and credit history are considered
- Income and debt-to-income ratio may be considered
- NetCredit evaluates the applicant's broader financial situation, not only credit score
- Checking eligibility uses a soft credit inquiry and does not affect the credit score
- A hard credit inquiry is initiated if an applicant accepts an offer and proceeds with final approval
- Loan amount, APR, and terms depend on state of residence and creditworthiness
- Additional verification may be required
- Not all applicants will qualify
Average Borrower Profile:
- NetCredit does not publish a current average funded-borrower loan amount
- NetCredit does not publish a current average borrower credit score
- NetCredit is designed to consider borrowers with less-than-perfect credit
- The lender considers income, debt-to-income ratio, credit history, and the applicant's broader financial situation
- Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the applicant's qualifications and state
Best For
- Flexible terms and APRs
NetCredit is one of California’s best alternative payday loans because the lender offers amounts of up to $10,000 with competitive rates and flexible terms. The APR ranges from 36% to 155%, so you can find a loan that fits your budget. Additionally, the lender offers repayment periods of 1 to 5 years so that you can choose the most comfortable term.
NetCredit doesn’t require any minimum credit score for approval and does not check your credit score. Instead, NetCredit evaluates other factors such as job stability, income level, and banking information. Like OppLoans, applying for a loan at NetCredit doesn’t impact your credit score, thus allowing you to build your credit score over time.
To be eligible for a loan at NetCredit, applicants must be 18 or older, have some form of regular income, and provide information about their banking history.
NetCredit charges California borrowers an origination fee of up to 5%, a late payment fee of $15, and no prepayment fees.
Pros:
- Amounts of up to $10,000 with competitive rates of up to 155%, better than payday loans.
- Flexible terms ranging from 1 to 5 years.
- No minimum credit score requirement.
- Loan application does not affect credit score.
- No prepayment fees.
Cons:
- NetCredit charges an origination fee of up to 5%.
- NetCredit charges a late payment fee of $15 after a 15-day grace period in California.
The Impact of Covid-19:
NetCredit had a loan deferral program for borrowers experiencing financial hardship due to the pandemic. Contact NetCredit’s customer service team at 1-877-392-2014 or email support@netcredit.com for more information if you’re in a similar situation.
FigLoans
Fees
- No application fee
- No late payment fee
- No late interest
- No reschedule fee
- No prepayment penalty
- No hidden fees
- The exact loan cost, APR, repayment length, and payment amount are shown before accepting the loan
- Credit Builder Loans may have a one-time account-opening fee
- Actual loan terms and availability vary by state and applicant
Qualification Criteria
- Minimum age: 18
- Must reside in a state where Fig Loans currently operates
- As of July 2026, Fig serves residents of Florida, Missouri, Ohio, Texas, Utah, and Wisconsin
- Must have a bank account where income is deposited and has been used for more than 60 days
- Consistent income deposits are preferred
- Fig recommends at least $1,400 in monthly direct deposits
- Bank account should have a positive balance when applying
- Excessive NSF fees and returned checks may reduce approval chances
- Must provide requested personal, banking, income, and identity information
- Ability to sustainably afford the loan payments is evaluated
- No minimum credit score is required
- Borrowers with bad or limited credit may be considered
- Fig may review bank-account information and other financial data during underwriting
- Checking the rate does not require a hard credit pull
- Not all applicants will qualify
Average Borrower Profile
- Fig does not publish a current average funded-loan amount or average borrower credit score
- The typical Fig Loan is repaid over an average of approximately 4 months
- Fig specifically serves working-class Americans who may have difficulty accessing traditional credit
- The lender evaluates current ability to repay rather than relying only on traditional credit information
- Fig reports payment history to Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion from day one
- Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the applicant's qualifications and state
Best For
- Short-term bad credit loans
Figloans is one of California’s best alternative payday loans for borrowers looking for small short-term bad credit loans. Better than payday loans, the lender offers amounts of up to $150 with competitive APR ranging from 35.99% to 211%, so you can find a loan that fits your budget. Additionally, the lender offers repayment periods of 1 to 6 months so that you can choose the most comfortable term.
FigLoans doesn’t require any minimum credit score for approval and does not check your credit score. Additionally, this lender is unique because it allows applicants to apply with a co-signer, which can help improve their chances of approval.
FigLoans charges California borrowers a debit card processing fee of 3%, but there are no loan origination fees, late payment fees, or prepayment fees.
The only downside of Figloans is that it only permits loans of up to $150 in California. However, this makes the lender ideal for minor emergencies.
Pros:
- Amounts of up to $150 with competitive rates of up to 211% cheaper than payday loans.
- Flexible terms ranging from 1 to 6 months.
- No minimum credit score requirement.
- The option to apply with a co-signer.
- No loan origination fees, late payment fees, or prepayment fees.
Cons:
- FigLoans only offers loans of up to $150 in California.
- APRs are higher than standard personal loans.
The Impact of Covid-19:
FigLoans offered payments reduction and deferral to customers financially impacted by the pandemic. Contact FigLoans’ customer service team at 1-832-803-0990 or email service@figloans.com for more information if you are in a similar situation.
WorldFinance
Fees:
- Origination fee of $25 – $100 may apply in states where a flat fee is permitted; percentage-based origination fees may apply in other states
- Late payment fee of $5 – $30 per late payment, or a percentage of the monthly payment or delinquent portion, depending on state law
- Returned payment/NSF fee of $10 – $50 per returned payment
- Governmental lien and motor-vehicle title fees may apply to secured loans
- No hidden fees
- No penalty for paying the loan off early
- Actual fees are determined by the state where the loan is originated and are disclosed in the Loan Agreement
Qualification Criteria:
- Minimum age: 18
- Must meet World Finance's credit standards
- Responsible credit history is considered
- Sufficient income after monthly expenses is required
- Sources of income are considered
- Ability to make the required monthly payments is evaluated
- Monthly budget and overall financial picture are considered
- Credit score is considered, but World Finance evaluates more than credit score alone
- Collateral may be required for larger loan amounts
- For secured loans, the vehicle must meet World Finance's value requirements
- Vehicle used as collateral must be titled in the borrower's name and have valid insurance
- A credit check is required; the initial online check is a soft inquiry, while the approval process includes a hard inquiry
- Additional documentation may be required
- Loan availability and terms depend on the borrower's state of residence
- Not all applicants will qualify
Average Borrower Profile:
- World Finance does not publish a current average funded-borrower loan amount
- World Finance does not publish a current average borrower credit score
- World Finance evaluates income, monthly expenses, payment ability, credit history, and overall financial circumstances
- Larger loans may require vehicle collateral
- Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the applicant's qualifications and state
Best For
- Bad credit
Like NetCredit, Figloans, and OppLoans, we classified WorldFinance as one of the best alternative payday loans in California because it offers a wide range of loan amounts with competitive APRs. Borrowers can apply for anywhere between $450 and $10,000, with competitive APRs ranging from 27.5% to 81.29%. As a result, while WorldFinance’s loans are less expensive than payday loans, you must only consider them if you cannot qualify for a personal loan for bad credit elsewhere.
Terms vary significantly, too – you can find repayment terms ranging from 6 months to 4 years. Additionally, the lender requires a loan origination fee of $25 to $100. In addition, this lender charges a late payment fee of 5% of the amount due, or $5 to $30, and an insufficient funds fee of $10 to $50.
WorldFinance does not disclose any credit score requirements for borrowers. To qualify, you must be 18 years old with recurring employment income or government benefits.
Pros:
- WolrdFinance offers a wide range of loan amounts from $450 to $10,000.
- APRs are competitive, ranging from 27.5% to 81.29%, lower than most alternative payday loans on our list.
- No credit score requirement.
- WordflFinance offers short-term loans with terms ranging from 6 months to 4 years.
- Applying for a loan does not affect your credit.
Cons:
- WorldFinance levies a loan origination fee of $25 to $100.
- Late payment fee of 5% of the amount due, or $5 to $30.
- Charges an insufficient funds fee of $10 to $50.
The Impact of Covid-19:
WordlFinance doesn’t have specific hardship programs. However, they do offer a “customer service guarantee.” This promises to render the best customer service possible during times of hardship and that customers can reach out to WorldFinance’s team for help anytime. You can contact them at 1-888-378-3886 or customercommunication@worldacceptance.com for more information.
RiseCredit
Fees
- No application fee
- No prepayment penalty
- No origination fee in most states
- Late payment fees may vary by state and loan agreement
- Other state-specific fees may apply
- Five-business-day risk-free cancellation period: return the principal within the applicable period and pay no interest or fees
- Loans are unsecured; no collateral is required
- Actual APR, fees, loan amount, and repayment terms vary by state and borrower
Qualification Criteria
- Minimum age: 18
- Must reside in a state where RISE operates
- Must have a valid Social Security number
- Must have a valid checking account
- Must have a regular source of income
- Must provide a valid email address
- Must meet applicable minimum income requirements
- Income consistency and ability to manage scheduled payments are considered
- Current financial obligations may be considered
- Banking and payment history may be considered
- Identity verification is required
- No single minimum credit score is required to apply
- Borrowers with fair, poor, or limited credit may be considered
- Checking eligibility uses a soft credit inquiry that does not affect the credit score
- A hard credit inquiry may occur after approval and acceptance
- Additional documentation may be requested
- Not all applicants will qualify
Average Borrower Profile
- RISE does not publish a current average funded-borrower loan amount
- RISE has served more than 1 million borrowers
- RISE considers borrowers across a range of credit profiles, including fair, poor, and limited credit
- Income, ability to repay, current financial obligations, banking history, and other application information may be considered
- RISE reports payment history to major credit bureaus, allowing on-time payments to help build credit history
- Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the applicant's state and qualifications
Best For
- No-fee bad credit loans
RiseCrtedit is another best alternative payday loan in California because it offers no-fee bad credit loans with rates between 36% and 299%, cheaper than payday loans. You can qualify for a no-fee bad credit loan of between $500 and $5,000. Terms range from 4 to 26 months, although this can vary depending on the loan amount you select.
RiseCredit doesn’t have any credit score requirements – all applicants must be 18 years of age in most states, have recurring employment income or government benefits, and complete their information through RiseCredit’s online portal.
RiseCredit is a unique payday loan alternative in California because the lender offers a 5-day risk-free guarantee. Thus, you can return the funds without penalty if you change your mind within five days of loan disbursement.
Pros:
- No-fee bad credit loans with competitive APRs between 36% and 299%.
- RiseCredit offers no loan origination fees, prepayment fees, or late payment fees.
- Applicants don’t need a minimum credit score to qualify.
- RiseCredit offers a 5-day risk-free guarantee.
Cons:
- Shorter loan amounts range from $500 – $5,000.
- Terms range from 4 – 26 months only.
The Impact of Covid-19:
RiseCredit offers payment referral services to borrowers directly through their accounts. If you’re having trouble making payments, you can contact RiseCredit at 1-866-580-1226 or the company’s website for more information.
SpeedyCash
Fees:
- No prepayment penalty
- Interest rates and applicable fees vary by state, loan product, and loan agreement
- Finance charges are disclosed before accepting the loan
- Daily interest may accrue on installment-loan balances
- Late payment and other state-specific fees may apply
- Instant funding to a debit card may be available for eligible applicants; additional funding restrictions may apply
- Actual loan costs, fees, APR, and repayment schedule depend on the state and loan agreement
Qualification Criteria:
- Minimum age: 18
- Must have a valid government-issued photo ID
- Must have a working phone number
- Must have a steady source of income
- Must have a bank account
- Must provide gross and net income information
- Source of income may be reviewed
- Debt-to-income ratio may be considered
- Credit score may be considered
- Credit history may be considered
- Proof of income may be required
- Bank-account and deposit information may be verified
- Must meet applicable state eligibility requirements
- Must meet state database eligibility where required
- Cannot already have an open Speedy Cash installment loan
- Cannot be an active-duty member of the military, or the spouse or dependent of one
- Additional verification may be required
- Not all applicants will qualify
Average Borrower Profile:
- Speedy Cash does not publish a current average funded-borrower loan amount
- Speedy Cash does not publish a current average borrower credit score
- The company says less-than-perfect credit is not necessarily a barrier to approval
- Income, ability to repay, debt-to-income ratio, credit score, and credit history may be considered
- Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the state, product, and applicant's qualifications
Best For
- California residents
SpeedyCash is another great alternative to payday loans in California because the lender offers APRs of below 40%. The lenders offer bad credit loans of between $3,000 and $4,500 with terms of up to 4 years in California. To qualify, you must be 18 years old, have recurring employment income or government benefits, and provide your information through SpeedyCash’s online portal.
SpeedyCash doesn’t charge any fees for taking out a loan.
The lender is best for California residents because they are not as generous with loan amounts to other states as they are here. Additionally, the company does not publicly disclose average loan statistics.
Pros:
- Offers APRs of below 40%.
- Bad credit loans of between $3,000 and $4,500 with terms of up to 4 years in California.
- No fees for taking out a loan.
- Applying for a loan doesn’t affect your credit score.
- California residents can access offers close to personal loans.
Cons:
- SpeedyCash issues payday loans also, so the issuing process could be clearer.
- Many of the products offered by SpeedyCash are only fit for emergencies.
The Impact of Covid-19:
During the pandemic, SpeedyCash waivered borrowers amounts up to $1.6 million and created hotlines to help borrowers with financial hardship and difficult times. Contact the lender at 1-855-825-1051 or the company’s website for more information.
Loan Apps
Loan apps are great alternative payday loans in California. However, they offer shorter repayment terms than some of the other lenders on this list. This can be a disadvantage if you need more time to repay the loan. However, loan apps offer competitive interest rates and no fees, so it is still a great option if you need a payday loan alternative.
Here are the best loan apps in California that offer cheaper loans than payday loans.
Dave
Fees:
- Interest: 0%
- ExtraCash overdraft/service fee: 5% of each advance, with a $5 minimum and $15 maximum
- Dave Membership: Up to $5 per month
- Transfer to Dave Checking: $0
- ACH transfer to external bank account: $0
- External debit card transfer: 1.5%
- Late fee: $0
- Inactivity fee: $5/month after 12 months with no deposits or withdrawals in the Dave ExtraCash Account
Qualification Criteria:
- Must be 18 or older.
- Must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
- Must have a U.S. physical or qualifying military address.
- Must have a valid Social Security Number or Tax Identification Number.
- Must open a Dave Checking Account and ExtraCash Account.
- Must link a qualifying bank account.
- Dave evaluates eligibility using cash-flow and bank-account information, including income, gig/irregular work, bank balance, spending patterns, deposits, account activity and prior Dave history.
- Maintaining a positive balance and having recurring deposits can improve eligibility.
- Any outstanding ExtraCash balance must be settled before taking additional ExtraCash.
- Eligibility and the available amount are reviewed and updated daily.
- No credit check is performed.
Dave loan app is an outstanding alternative payday loan in California because borrowers can get access to up to $500 for free for their financial needs. After paying your bills, you only need two qualifying direct deposits and a few dollars left over. Dave will also connect with an external bank account so that you have access to the funds quickly.
The app does charge a monthly membership fee of $1, and cash advances can cost up to $13.99 for same-day funding. Additionally, you can repay a loan manually or with your next paycheck. There is no credit check with Dave’s loan app; thus, anyone can qualify for Dave’s services.
Pros:
- Up to a $500-no-fee loan for your financial needs.
- No credit check – so anyone can qualify for Dave’s services.
- Ability to connect with an external bank account to quickly access funds.
- You can either repay manually or with your next paycheck.
- Dave loan app offers free standard three-day funding.
Cons:
- Dave charges a monthly membership fee of $1.
- Cash advances can cost up to $13.99 for same-day funding.
The Impact of Covid-19:
Dave didn’t change their policies during the pandemic. However, if you need extra help, contact the company via 1-844-857-3283 or at support@dave.com. Alternatively, you can use the mobile app’s chat function feature.
MoneyLion
Fees:
- Interest: 0%
- Monthly administrative fee: $0
- Mandatory fees: $0
- Standard delivery: $0
- Turbo delivery to MoneyLion Spend Account: 7.5% of the advance amount, capped at $14.99
- Turbo delivery to external account/debit card: 9% of the advance amount
- Optional tip: $0 and up
- Late fee: $0
- Prepayment penalty: $0
Qualification Criteria:
- Must be a registered MoneyLion user in good standing.
- Must satisfy MoneyLion's age-of-majority and residency requirements.
- Must pass identity verification.
- Must maintain a MoneyLion Spend Account or eligible linked external checking account and associated debit card.
- Must have detectable recurring eligible direct deposits of wages, compensation, or other income.
- It can take up to 3 consecutive deposits from the same source for MoneyLion to recognize recurring direct deposits.
- Transfers from another bank account, PayPal, Venmo, Zelle, mobile deposits, ATM deposits, and similar transactions generally do not qualify as eligible direct deposits.
- Advance eligibility and limit are based on factors including direct-deposit amount and timing, account transaction history, and other information.
- The Instacash limit generally cannot exceed 50% of anticipated eligible direct deposits during a regular deposit period.
- No credit pull or credit check is performed for Instacash.
MoneyLion is an excellent alternative payday loan in California because it offers borrowers up to $250 with no interest and repayment with their next paycheck. To qualify for MoneyLion’s services, you must have a checking account that’s been open for at least two months and make sure the account is active and has a positive balance.
However, MoneyLion only permits new accounts to borrow up to $50, so if you need more, you must wait until you have proven your creditworthiness to qualify for a $250 loan. The app does charge a fee of $1.99 to $7.99 for immediate cash advances. MoneyLion also allows you to connect with an external bank account to access the funds quickly.
In addition, MoneyLion also offers credit-builder loans account to bad credit borrowers. This account costs $19.99 monthly and can allow you to access bad credit personal loans of up to $1,000. These loans charge an APR of 5.99% to 29.99%. Additionally, you can use the loan money to cover medical bills, car repairs, and more.
Pros:
- Up to a $250 free loan for your financial needs.
- No credit check – so anyone can qualify for MoneyLion’s services.
- Ability to connect with an external bank account for quick access to funds.
- MoneyLion offers credit-builder loan accounts to bad credit borrowers.
Cons:
- New loan accounts are eligible for up to $50 loan.
- Fees of $1.99 to $7.99 for immediate cash advances.
The Impact of Covid-19:
MoneyLion didn’t change its policies during the pandemic. However, if you need extra help, contact the company via 1-888-704-6970 or at customercare@moneylion.com. Alternatively, you can use MoneyLion’s mobile app chat function.
Solo Funds
Fees:
- A 15% late fee and a $5 processing fee are assessed.
- Do not charge loan origination fees
- Do not charge repayment fees
Qualification Criteria:
- It depends on the standards of the P2P lenders
Average Borrower Profile:
- Not disclosed
Best For
- Peer-to-peer lending
Solo Funds is another best alternative payday loan in California. It is a great loan app because it doesn’t require a credit check to apply and doesn’t charge interest rates, unlike payday loans. However, unlike other loan apps, like Dave, this lender is a p2p lender.
With Solo Funds, you can borrow and receive up to $575 with repayment terms of up to 35 days. The late payment fee is up to 10% of the principal loan amount. To qualify for a loan from Solo Funds, you must meet the criteria set by peer-to-peer lenders. You can link an external bank account to access the funds quickly.
Pros:
- Can borrow up to $575 with no interest rates or credit checks required.
- Peer-to-peer lender means better loan offers in most cases.
- Link an external bank account for a seamless borrowing experience.
- Applying for a loan is straightforward and doesn’t impact your credit.
- Solo Funds doesn’t charge any membership fees.
Cons:
- P2P lenders determine your eligibility.
- Late payment fees of up to 10%.
The Impact of Covid-19:
Solo Funds provide tips on how to maneuver during difficult times. If you need help, contact Solo Funds directly at the lender’s help center or via help@solofunds.com.
Brigit
Fees:
- Interest: 0%
- Late fee: $0
- Mandatory tipping: $0
- Monthly subscription: $8.99 – $15.99, depending on membership plan
- Standard delivery: $0; typically 2–3 business days
- Express delivery: $0.99 – $3.99 according to Brigit's current published comparison information
- Prepayment penalty: $0
- Extension fee: $0
Qualification Criteria:
- Must be 18 or older.
- Must have an eligible U.S. checking account.
- Checking account must be active for at least 60 days.
- Checking account must have a balance above $0.
- Must have at least 3 recurring deposits from the same source.
- Brigit reviews bank activity, income, balance, spending habits and other financial information to determine eligibility and advance amount.
- Must meet Brigit's other account and identity requirements.
- No credit check is required for Instant Cash.
Brigit is a superb alternative payday loan in California because the app charges a membership fee of $9.99, which is cheaper than payday loans. The app allows you to borrow up to $250. Brigit typically withdraws the funds on your next payday, but you can repay manually if needed.
To qualify for Brigit’s services, you must have at least 60 days of checking account activity and maintain a positive balance. You also must have a cash surplus after being paid. Brigit also requires borrowers to have a Brigit Score between 40 and 100. Brigit also allows you to link an external bank account for a seamless borrowing experience.
Pros:
- No interest or credit check is required to apply.
- Cheaper than payday loans with a $9.99 monthly membership fee.
- Flexible repayment process with the ability to repay manually if needed.
- Can link an external bank account for quick access to funds.
- You receive the loan in 20 minutes without any fast delivery fees.
- You can qualify for a loan of up to $250, which is higher than other loan apps like Cleo, which offers up to $100.
Cons:
- Must have a Brigit Score between 40 and 100 to qualify.
The Impact of Covid-19:
Brigit offered external resources to customers who were affected by Covid-19. To learn more about specific hardship programs, you can contact Brigit at info@hellobrigit.com or apply through their automated chat function.
Earnin
Fees:
- Interest: 0%
- Mandatory fees: $0
- Standard Cash Out transfer: $0; typically 1–3 business days
- Lightning Speed: Starts at $3.99 per transfer; exact fee depends on transfer amount and destination
- Optional tip: User-selected; $0 and up
- Colorado & Wisconsin: Tipping is unavailable; Lightning Speed uses fixed fees of $4.99–$9.99 depending on transfer amount
- Late fee: $0
- Prepayment penalty: $0
Qualification Criteria:
- Must be 18 years or older.
- Primary residence must be in the United States or a U.S. territory.
- Must have a U.S. bank account.
- Must have a valid U.S. cell phone number.
- Must have a consistent direct-deposit pay schedule: weekly, biweekly, semi-monthly, or monthly.
- Must provide an employer-provided email address or fixed work location to verify employment.
- Must have an eligible checking account; prepaid and savings accounts are not eligible for Cash Out.
- Cash Out is not compatible with disability pay or unemployment wages.
- EarnIn evaluates your available amount using factors including paycheck routing history, paycheck consistency, bank balance, repayment history, account activity, and usage of other cash-advance apps.
- No hard or soft credit check is required for Cash Out.
Earnin is a fantastic payday loan alternative in California because the app doesn’t charge fees except for same-day funding fees, which is cheaper than payday loans. The app allows you to borrow up to $100 per day and a maximum of $750 per pay period.
However, Earnin analyzes your workplace attendance and income through your work email, timesheets, wage stubs, and GPS locations to determine your eligibility.
While Earnin offers 3-day free cash advances, the company charges up to $3.99 each $100 for same-day cash advances. To qualify, you must have a checking account with frequent direct deposits and a link to an external bank account.
Pros:
- No interest or credit check is required to apply.
- Earnin provides up to $750, higher than other loan apps, like Solo Funds.
- Cheaper than payday loans, with the only fee being $3.99 per $100 for same-day cash advances.
- Earnin provides a free first same-day cash advance.
- You can link an external bank account for quick access to funds.
- Earnin doesn’t charge membership fees.
Cons:
- Must have a checking account with frequent direct deposits to qualify.
- Earnin thoroughly scrutinizes your workplace attendance and income through your work email, timesheets, wage stubs, and GPS locations.
The Impact of Covid-19:
Earnin provided extra financial support to customers who were affected by Covid-19. Contact Earnin at support@earnin.com to learn more about the programs they offer.
Albert
Fees:
- Interest: 0%
- Late fee: $0
- Monthly fee: No subscription required for Instant Advance
- Instant transfer fee: May apply when transferring to an external account within minutes
- Standard transfer: No fee for eligible standard delivery
- Draw fees: May apply depending on the Instant Advance/line-of-credit product
- Prepayment penalty: $0
Qualification Criteria:
- Must have an Albert account.
- Must meet Albert's eligibility requirements for Instant Advance.
- Advance availability is determined by Albert at its discretion.
- Must provide sufficient financial/account information for Albert to assess eligibility.
- Eligibility and advance amount are subject to account activity and other eligibility factors.
- Not all customers qualify, and only a small percentage qualify for the maximum $1,000.
- Albert states that an Instant Advance does not require an Albert subscription.
- No credit check is required for Instant Advance.
Albert is another great payday alternative loan in California, which offers up to $250. To qualify, you must have a bank account with a positive balance open for at least two months and receive regular direct deposits from the same employer. Albert also requires borrowers to have an account surplus after their paycheck arrives.
The company charges $6.99 per cash advance to an external bank account.
Pros:
- No interest or credit check is required to apply.
- Offers up to $250, higher than other loan apps, like Cleo, which offers up to $100.
- Cheaper fees compared to other payday alternatives and traditional payday loans.
- You can link an external bank account for quick access to funds.
- Albert doesn’t charge membership fees.
Cons:
- To qualify, you must have a bank account with a positive balance open for at least two months and receive regular direct deposits from the same employer.
- Account surplus must be available the day after payday to qualify.
- Charges $6.99 if the funds are sent to an external bank account.
The Impact of Covid-19:
Albert doesn’t have specific programs for customers affected by Covid-19 but offers low-fee cash advances to help bridge the gap between paychecks. Contact Albert at support@albert.com to learn more about their services and programs and to inquire about assistance.
Credit Unions in California
Credit unions are a fantastic alternative to payday loans because they offer low-interest rates, longer repayment terms, and no credit checks. In addition, many credit unions offer other financial services such as checking and savings accounts, car loans, and home mortgages.
Credit unions are nonprofit organizations that are owned and operated by their members. This means that the profits from the credit union go back to the members in the form of lower interest rates, no fees, and other benefits. Credit unions also have lower overhead costs than for-profit banks, which means they can offer better interest rates and products to their members.
Here are the best credit unions in California that make awesome payday alternative loans.
First Tech Credit Union
Fees:
- No application fee
- No origination fee
- No prepayment penalty
- No annual fee
- No fees are charged for checking your rate
- Actual APR depends on creditworthiness, loan amount, and loan term
- Rates and terms are subject to change and credit approval
- Membership is required and subject to approval
Qualification Criteria:
- Minimum age: 18
- Must be a First Tech Federal Credit Union member
- Membership is subject to approval
- Must meet First Tech's credit and underwriting requirements
- Credit history and creditworthiness are considered
- Income and ability to repay may be considered
- Loan amount and loan term affect the rate offered
- A soft credit inquiry is used when checking your rate and does not affect your credit score
- A hard credit inquiry may be performed if you continue with the application
- Must provide requested personal, employment, income, and financial information
- All loan applications are subject to credit approval
- Not all applicants will qualify
- First Tech currently lends in all states except Texas, Alaska, and Hawaii
Average Borrower Profile:
- First Tech does not publish a current average funded personal-loan amount or average borrower credit score
- First Tech states that the interest rate is based on creditworthiness and credit history
- Loan amount, term, credit profile, and other financial factors affect the rate offered
- Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the applicant's qualifications
Best For
- Fast online application
First Tech Federal Credit Union is one of the best credit unions in CA. The lender is an outstanding alternative payday loan in California because it offers affordable rates of between 7.7% and 18%, which are cheaper than payday loans.
First Tech Federal Credit offers loans of up to $50,000 with terms of 5-12 years. You require a minimum credit score of 660, a valid Social Security Number, and employer information to be eligible. There are no origination fees or prepayment penalties, and late fees are waived if you make timely payments.
This lender doesn’t charge origination fees, late fees, or prepayment penalties. That makes it an outstanding payday loan alternative for applicants in California who need extra funds to bridge the gap between paychecks.
First Tech Federal Credit Union is headquartered in Tustin, CA, with over 41 branches. Thus, you can either apply online or visit any of the branches.
Pros:
- No origination fees.
- No prepayment fees.
- First Tech doesn’t charge late fees.
- First Tech offers competitive interest rates of up to 18%, which are cheaper than payday loan rates.
Cons:
- Minimum credit score requirement of 660 points.
- Not all applications are approved within one day.
The Impact of Covid-19:
First Tech Federal Credit Union has hardship programs for borrowers affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. The programs include loan payment deferrals, interest rate reductions, and fee waivers. You can email or call the lender at 855-855-8805 the lender for help if you are facing financial difficulties for assistance.
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union
Fees
- No origination fee
- No early-payoff fee or prepayment penalty
- 0.75% APR discount for payments made by automatic transfer from a SchoolsFirst FCU account
- Optional Payment Shield Plus debt protection is available for an additional cost
- One payment skip per 12 months may be available on eligible personal loans; interest continues to accrue during the skipped-payment period
- Rate may be reduced by up to 0.50% APR in increments after 12 consecutive on-time payments, subject to eligibility
- Actual APR depends on credit rating, loan term, loan amount, and payment method
- Rates and terms are subject to change
Qualification Criteria
- Must have a SchoolsFirst FCU account in good standing
- Must complete a loan application
- Must authorize a credit check
- Credit rating is considered when determining the interest rate
- Must meet SchoolsFirst FCU's credit-approval requirements
- Income and ability to repay may be considered
- Loan amount and term may affect the rate offered
- Automatic transfer from a SchoolsFirst FCU checking or savings account is required to receive the lowest advertised APR
- Additional personal, income, employment, and financial information may be required
- For loans used for post-secondary education expenses, additional disclosures and a three-day rescission period apply
- Maximum aggregate unsecured personal-loan limit is $50,000 per qualifying member, including individual and joint unsecured loans
- Not all applicants will qualify
Average Borrower Profile
- SchoolsFirst FCU does not publish a current average funded personal-loan amount
- SchoolsFirst FCU does not publish a current average borrower credit score
- Rates are based on factors including the applicant's credit rating
- Loan amount, term, payment method, and credit profile affect the rate offered
- Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the applicant's qualifications
Best For
- Consolidating higher-interest debt.
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union is a beautiful payday alternative in California and one of the best credit unions in CA. SchoolsFirst offers affordable APRs of between 7% and 18% along with terms of 4-60 months, thus cheaper than payday loans.
To apply for the loan, you must maintain a good status in your SchoolsFirst account and have a credit score of between 580 and 840. The lender does not charge prepayment, origination, or late payment fees.
The lender is headquartered in Tustin, CA, and has 689 branches across the state. You can apply online or visit one of the branches to get your loan approved within 1-7 days.
Pros:
- High maximum loan amount of $50,000.
- SchoolsFirst offers competitive interest rates ranging from 7% to 18%.
- No prepayment, origination, or late payment fees.
- The lender has over 689 branches in CA.
Cons:
- Higher rates for bad credit borrowers.
The Impact of Covid-19:
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union has been helping borrowers affected by the pandemic with hardship programs. Contact the lender at 800-462-8328 or visit their branches to check whether you qualify.
How to Choose the Best for you Between these Options in California?
Choosing the best alternative payday loan in California between bad credit personal loans, loan apps, buy now pay later, and credit unions are tough. But with our help, it’s not.
For instance, bad credit personal loans are short terms loans with APRs of up to 35.99%. Some have origination, late payment, and prepayment fees, but they are cheaper than payday loans. The only disadvantage of bad credit personal loans is that they require a good credit score.
Loan apps are also great, with 0 interest and no credit check loans. The downside is that you may offer smaller amounts than other payday alternative loans on our list.
Buy-now-pay-later loans don’t look at your credit score. These loans are offered by merchants and let you buy now but pay for your purchase later. Some of them don’t charge interest, but there are fees involved. The only disadvantage of BNPL services is that they usually have a limited number of merchants.
Finally, credit unions are great for payday alternative loans or PAL. Most of them will consider your credit score and other factors like income, DTI, etc. The downside is that some require a membership fee to join the credit union.
Either way, consider factors like your credit score, needs, income, and DTI. Always compare the terms of each loan before deciding which one is best for you. This way, you will ensure that you get the best deal possible.
Remember that payday loans should be an absolute last resort, as they often come with incredibly high-interest rates and fees, so explore all these options first.
How to apply for a loan in California?
You can apply through our marketplace or contact the lender directly to apply for alternative payday loans in CA.
The process is simple and easy. You will need to provide basic information such as your name, address, phone number, and bank account details. After that, you can choose which loan offer best fits your needs.
Payday Loan Laws in California
According to payday loan laws in CA, the maximum payday loan you can borrow is $300. Additionally, all payday lenders cannot charge over 15% of the check amount up to $45. The maximum APR you can be charged is 36%.
All payday loan lenders must post their licenses publicly, and the Department of Business Oversight (DBO) regulates them.
Any payday loan lender should not threaten to take you to court for insufficient funds.
While requesting a repayment term extension may lead to additional fees, payday loan lenders are not granted the authority to accept your request.
Payday loan lenders should not service debt consolidation loans.
If your check bounces after paying the payday loan lender, you will be charged only one fee of up to $15 by the lender.
A payday loan lender must provide a contract explaining all your loan terms and conditions.
If you experience any harassment from payday lenders, file a complaint with the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI).
To stop paying for payday loans legally, notify your bank, there days before the payment day, and send your bank the stop payment order. However, beware, banks charge to stop payment orders.
Payday loan lenders in CA can garnish 25% of your net income if you fail to pay the loan on time.
Lenders must report to at least one credit agency and offer credit education courses to borrowers.
However, we always avoid that you avoid payday loans to avoid any possibility of harassment. Both our reviews and marketplace are here to help you find the best payday alternative loans with better terms, interest rates, and fewer fees. We are committed to providing our customers with the best loan experience possible, so don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or concerns.
Why Aren’t Payday Loans Legal in California?
Payday loans charge up to 400% in APRS. Thus, they are considered predatory, and California has taken steps to protect its citizens from this kind of loan. The law states that payday loans cannot be issued for more than $300. Additionally, these loans’ interest rates and fees must be at most 15% of the check amount or up to $45.
Thus, payday loan lenders find it hard to profit in California and have chosen to leave the market for their benefit. This is why payday loans are illegal in this state.
Full list of Payday Loan Alternatives in California
- OppLoans
- Possible Finance
- MoneyLion
- Brigit
- CashnNetUSA
- Monevo
- LendYou
- SpeedyCash
- ZippyLoan
- PersonalLoan
- NextDayPersonalLoan
- Local credit unions
- Upgrade
- Upstart
- LendingPoint
- VivaLoans
- NetCredit
- FigLoans
- WorldFinance
- RiseCredit
- Dave
- Solo Funds
- Earnin
- Albert
- Klarna
- PayActiv
- LoanSolo
- MoneyMatch
- BadCreditLoans
No matter which alternative payday loan you choose, read the terms and conditions carefully before signing any agreement. Additionally, shopping around for the best interest rates, fees, and repayment terms that fit your needs is important.
Help from Government and Other Organizations
Through the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI), the government offers help to payday loan borrowers in California. It helps by providing consumer protection and financial education services to manage debts. Also, the DFPI works with organizations that offer free financial counseling and assistance with debt management plans.
The government also offers consumer protection against payday loans through the California Financial Protection Law, which provides a “cooling off” period of up to 31 days after each loan is issued.
Finally, other organizations, like ElitePersonalFinance, SiliconValleycf.org, My Credit Summit, and UWBA.org, help California residents with education against payday loans and alternatives and assistance.
How Do We Pick these Lenders?
To come up with the best alternative payday loans in California, we scrutinized over 100 bad credit personal loans, BNPL services, loan apps, payday loan alternatives, and credit unions.
We always check for credit score requirements, loan amounts, income requirements, repayment terms, customer service, APRs, and fees to confirm they are not payday loans. Additionally, we make sure to choose those lenders that are registered in the state of California with trusted practices.
Finally, we pick transparent lenders in their processes and have customer service teams ready to help you with any questions or concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions?
What are the 4 Alternatives to Payday Loans in California?
Bad credit personal loans, BNPL services, loan apps, credit unions, and alternative payday loans in California are the four alternatives to payday loans.
Are there any Free or Low-cost Options for Getting a Loan in California?
There are several options for Californians looking to borrow money without paying high-interest rates. These include credit union loans, grants from nonprofit organizations and government agencies, microloans, and peer-to-peer lending.
What is the Maximum Interest Rate for a Payday Loan in California?
The maximum interest rate for a payday loan in California is 15% on the check amount, or up to $45.
Conclusion
When looking for the best alternative payday loans in California, consider factors such as credit score requirements, loan amounts, income requirements, repayment terms, customer service, APRs, and fees. Additionally, make sure to choose a lender that is registered in the state of California with trusted practices. Finally, look for transparent lenders in their processes and have customer service teams ready to help you with any questions or concerns.
Fortunately, you don’t have to do the hard work, as our list includes the best alternative payday loan lenders in California. Consider this list as you decide which lender best fits your needs.
Regardless of which option you choose, read all terms and conditions, research, and shop around to get the best interest rates and fees.
