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 May 2024: 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.

Best Payday Alternatives in California of May 2024

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

Loan Amount:	$100 – $15,000
APR:	5.99% – 35.99%
Min. Credit Score:	0
Approval:	5 Minutes
Terms:	6 Months – 5 Years
Fees:	Loan origination fees vary by lender. Late payment fees vary by lender. Most lenders don’t charge prepayment fees.
Qualification Criteria:	Be at least 18 years of age. Have recurring employment income or government benefits. Fill out your information through ZippyLoan’s online portal.
Average Borrower Profile:	ZippyLoan connects borrowers with personalized financial product offers from banks and other lenders. Financing options are available if you have bad, fair, good, or excellent credit.
Best For:	Bad or No credit
CHECK RATES

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

Loan Amount:	$1,000 – $35,000
APR:	5.99% – 35.99%
Min. Credit Score:	580
Approval:	1 Day
Terms:	90 Days – 6 Years
Fees:	A loan origination fee of 1% – 5% You may incur late payment fees after a 15-day grace period Most lenders don’t charge prepayment fees
Qualification Criteria:	Be at least 18 years of age Have a credit score of at least 580 The maximum DTI ratio is often 43% Have recurring employment income or government benefits. Do not have a pattern of late payments, bankruptcies, or charge-offs Fill out your information through PersonalLoans’ online portal
Average Borrower Profile:	PersonalLoans connects borrowers with personalized financial product offers from banks and other lenders If you have bad, fair, good, or excellent credit, financing options are available
Best For:	Short and long-term personal loans
CHECK RATES

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

Loan Amount:	$1,000 – $50,000
APR:	8.49% – 35.99%
Min. Credit Score:	560
Approval:	1 Day
Terms:	2 – 7 Years
Fees:	Loan origination fee of 1.85% – 9.99% Late payment fee of $10, after a 15-day grace period Insufficient funds fee of $10 There are no prepayment fees
Qualification Criteria:	Be at least 18 years of age Have a credit score of at least 560 Have a DTI ratio that doesn’t exceed 75% Have recurring employment income or government benefits Fill out your information through Upgrade’s online portal
Average Borrower Profile:	Has a credit score of 678 Has an annual income of $78,000
Best For:	High DTI ratios
Check rates

Personal loans made through Upgrade feature Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) of 8.49% – 35.99%. All personal loans have a 1.85% to 9.99% origination fee, which is deducted from the loan proceeds. The lowest rates require Autopay and paying off a portion of existing debt directly. Loans feature repayment terms of 24 to 84 months. For example, if you receive a $10,000 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 in your account 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 on your loan may be higher or lower, and your loan offers may not have multiple term lengths available. The actual rate depends on credit score, credit usage history, loan term, and other factors. Late payments or subsequent charges and fees may increase the cost of your fixed-rate loan. There is no fee or penalty for repaying a loan early.

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 8.49% 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 560 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 8.49% 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 560 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.

LendingPoint

Loan Amount:	$2,000 – $36,500
APR:	7.99% – 35.99%
Min. Credit Score:	580
Approval:	1 – 7 Days
Terms:	2 – 5 Years
Fees:	A loan origination fee of 0% to 6% Late payment fee of up to $30 Insufficient funds fee of $20
Qualification Criteria:	Be at least 18 years of age Have a credit score of at least 580 Have a DTI ratio that doesn’t exceed 50% Have an annual income of at least $25,000 Fill out your information through LendingPoint’s online portal
Average Borrower Profile:	Has a credit score of 673 Has an annual income of $80,000
Best For:	$25,000 annual income
CHECK RATES

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

Loan Amount:	$1,000 – $50,000
APR:	4.6% – 35.99%
Min. Credit Score:	300
Approval:	1 – 7 Days
Terms:	3 – 5 Years
Fees:	Loan origination fee of 0% – 12% Late payment fee of 5% of the amount due, or $15, whichever is greater, after a 15-day grace period Insufficient funds fee of $15 Paper documents fee of $10 There are no prepayment fees
Qualification Criteria:	Minimum age: 18 Residing in the United States (don’t have to be a citizen or permanent resident) (exception for military) Minimum credit score of 300 in most states No bankruptcies or public records on your credit report No accounts that are currently in collections or delinquent Living in the 50 US states
Average Borrower Profile:	Borrows roughly $8,600. Incurs an APR of 23.98% on a five-year term Achieves approval nearly twice as often than traditional lenders with a FICO Score of 620 to 660 The CFPB found Upstart’s AI risk model approves 27% more borrowers and they incur APRs 16% lower than traditional lenders
Best For:	Low credit scores, high DTI ratios
Check rates

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 $9136 and will make 60 monthly payments of $257. APR is calculated based on 5-year rates offered in March 2023.  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 4.6% – 35.99%. They also permit loan amounts ranging from $1,000 to $50,000 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 4.6% – 35.99%.
• Wide loan amounts up to $50,000.
• 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.

Funds Joy

Loan Amount:	$200 – $5,000
APR:	5.99% – 35.99%
Min. Credit Score:	0
Approval:	1 Day
Terms:	1 – 5 Years
Fees:	A loan origination fee of 1% to 5% Late payment fees vary by each lender Insufficient funds fees vary by each lender
Qualification Criteria:	Be at least 18 years of age Be employed, have recurring income, or government benefits. A valid email and SSN number. A United States citizen or a permanent resident. Fill out your information through FundsJoy’s online portal
Average Borrower Profile:	FundsJoy doesn’t disclose the average borrower profile information.
Best For:	Debt consolidation
CHECK RATES

FundsJoy is an excellent alternative to payday loans in California because the lender offers an outstanding alternative payday loan referral service to borrowers. Additionally, this lender offers affordable APRs of 5.99% – 35.99%, loan amounts ranging from $200 to $5,000, and flexible repayment terms of one to five years.

While FundsJoy does not have a minimum credit score requirement, borrowers must be employed, have recurring income, or have government benefits to qualify for this loan.

FundsJoy charges a loan origination fee of 1% – 5%. Late payment fees and insufficient funds fees vary by each lender on the platform. This lender does not charge other fees, such as prepayment penalties or hidden fees.

An upside of FundsJoy is that the minimum credit score required for approval is 0, so bad credit borrowers can be eligible. In addition, this lender has a referral service that helps borrowers find the best payday loan alternatives in California, allowing them to save money on interest.

Pros:

• Affordable interest rates of 5.99% to 35.99%.
• FundsJoy has a fast approval time of one day.
• Flexible repayment schedules of one to five years are offered.
• No minimum credit score requirement.
• FundsJoy offers a payday loan alternative referral service.

Cons:

• A loan origination fee ranges from 1% – 5%.
• FundsJoy charges late payment fees and insufficient funds fees that vary by each lender.
• FundsJoy offers smaller payday alternative loans than other lenders on our list.

The Impact of Covid-19:

FundsJoy doesn’t have specific forbearance options for borrowers affected by the pandemic. However, if you are experiencing financial hardship and need help, contact the lender directly to check the available options.

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

Loan Amount:	$500 – $4,000
APR:	59% – 160%
Min. Credit Score:	0
Approval:	1 – 7 Days
Terms:	9 – 18 Months
Fees:	No origination fees. Doesn’t charge prepayment fees. It doesn’t charge late payment fees.
Qualification Criteria:	Be at least 18 years of age. Have recurring employment income or government benefits. Be a citizen of the United States or a permanent resident in California. Accept direct deposits. Work for your employer for at least three months. Have a valid checking account that is at least 90 days old. Have a net monthly income of $18,000 or more. Fill out your information through OppLoans’ online portal.
Average Borrower Profile:	OppLoans doesn’t disclose average loan statistics
Best For:	Bad or no credit
CHECK RATES

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

Loan Amount:	$1,000 – $10,000
APR:	36% – 155%
Min. Credit Score:	Not Listed
Approval:	1 – 7 Days
Terms:	1 – 5 Years
Fees:	A loan origination fee of up to 5% Late payment fee of $15, after a 15-day grace period There are no prepayment fees
Qualification Criteria:	Be at least 18 years of age Have recurring employment income or government benefits Fill out your information through NetCredit’s online portal
Average Borrower Profile:	Borrows $6,300 Incurs an APR of 36%
Best For:	Flexible terms and APRs
CHECK RATES

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

Loan Amount:	$50 – $150
APR:	35.99% – 211%
Min. Credit Score:	0
Approval:	1 – 7 Days
Terms:	1 – 6 Months
Fees:	Debit card processing fee of 3% There are no loan origination fees There are no late payment fees There are no prepayment fees
Qualification Criteria:	Be at least 18 years of age Have a monthly income of at least $1,400 Fill out your information through FigLoans’ online portal
Average Borrower Profile:	FigLoans doesn’t disclose average loan statistics
Best For:	Short-term bad credit loans
CHECK RATES

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

Loan Amount:	$450 – $10,000
APR:	27.5% – 81.29%
Min. Credit Score:	Not Listed
Approval:	1 – 7 Days
Terms:	6 Months – 4 Years
Fees:	A loan origination fee of $25 to $100 Late payment fee of 5% of the amount due, or $5 to $30 Insufficient funds fee of $10 to $50
Qualification Criteria:	Be at least 18 years of age Have recurring employment income or government benefits Fill out your information through WorldFinance’s online portal
Average Borrower Profile:	WorldFinance doesn’t disclose average loan statistics
Best For:	Bad Credit
CHECK RATES

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

Loan Amount:	$500 – $5,000
APR:	36% – 299%
Min. Credit Score:	0
Approval:	1 – 7 Days
Terms:	4 – 26 Months
Fees:	There are no loan origination fees There are no late payment fees There are no prepayment fees
Qualification Criteria:	Be at least 18 years of age in most states Have recurring employment income or government benefits Fill out your information through RiseCredit’s online portal
Average Borrower Profile:	RiseCredit doesn’t disclose average loan statistics
Best For:	No-fee bad credit loans
CHECK RATES

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

Loan Amount:	$3,000 – $4,500
APR:	37% – 199%
Min. Credit Score:	Not Listed
Approval:	1 – 7 Days
Terms:	2 – 4 Years
Fees:	Not Listed
Qualification Criteria:	Be at least 18 years of age Have recurring employment income or government benefits Fill out your information through SpeedyCash’s online portal
Average Borrower Profile:	SpeedyCash doesn’t disclose average loan statistics
Best For:	California residents
CHECK RATES

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

Loan Amount:	Up to $500
APR:	0%
Terms:	Repay manually or with your next paycheck
Fees:	$1 monthly membership fee $1.99 to $13.99 for same-day cash advances
Credit Check:	No
How to Qualify:	Have at least two qualifying direct deposits Have cash leftover after paying your bills
Link External Bank Account:	Yes
LEARN MORE

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

Loan Amount:	Up to $250
APR:	0%
Terms:	Repay with your next paycheck
Fees:	$1.99 to $7.99 for immediate cash advances
Credit Check:	No
How to Qualify:	Have a checking account that’s been open for at least two months Make sure the account is active and has a positive balance
Link External Bank Account:	Yes
LEARN MORE

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

Loan Amount:	$20 – $575
APR:	0%
Terms:	Up to 35 days
Fees:	The late payment fee is up to 10% of the loan principal amount
Credit Check:	No
How to Qualify:	Depends on the P2P lenders’ criteria
Link External Bank Account:	Yes
LEARN MORE

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

Loan Amount:	Up to $250
APR:	0%
Terms:	Repay manually or with your next paycheck
Fees:	$9.99 monthly membership fee
Credit Check:	No
How to Qualify:	Have at least 60 days of checking account activity and maintain a balance above $0 Have a cash surplus every two weeks after receiving your paycheck Have a Brigit Score that ranges from 40 to 100
Link External Bank Account:	Yes
LEARN MORE

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

Loan Amount:	Up to $100 per day and $750 per pay period
APR:	0%
Terms:	Repay manually via money order or with your next paycheck
Fees:	Up to $3.99 per $100 for same-day cash advances (first is free)
Credit Check:	No
How to Qualify:	Have a checking account with frequent direct deposits
Link External Bank Account:	Yes
LEARN MORE

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

Loan Amount:	Up to $250
APR:	0%
Terms:	Repay manually or with your next paycheck
Fees:	$6.99 per cash advance to an external bank account
Credit Check:	No
How to Qualify:	Have a bank account with a positive balance that’s been open for at least two months Have regular direct deposits from the same employer Have an account surplus the day after your paycheck arrives
Link External Bank Account:	Yes
LEARN MORE

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

Loan Amount:	$500 – $50,000
APR:	7.7% – 18%
Min. Credit Score:	660
Approval:	Not disclosed.
Terms:	5 – 12 years.
Fees:	No origination fees. No prepayment fees. No late fees.
Qualification Criteria:	Be 18 years old and above. The minimum credit score of 660. A valid Social Security Number. Employer information. Fill in your credentials at the First Tech Federal Credit Union’s online portal.
Average Borrower Profile:	Not disclosed.
Best For:	Fast online application
CHECK RATES

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

Loan Amount:	$100 – $50,000
APR:	7% – 18%
Min. Credit Score:	580
Approval:	1 – 7 days
Terms:	4 – 60 months
Fees:	Does not charge prepayment fees. Does not charge loan processing fees. An origination fee of 1% – 8%. Does not charge late payment fees.
Qualification Criteria:	Be 18 years old and above. Maintain a positive status with your SchoolsFirst FCU account. Have a credit score of between 580 and 840. Submit a loan application and check your credit.
Average Borrower Profile:	Pays $3.01 per $100 borrowed. Pays an APR of 5.25%. Has an average term loan of 36 months.
Best For:	Consolidating higher-interest debt.
CHECK RATES

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
• Fast5kLoans
• CashnNetUSA
• Monevo
• LendYou
• SpeedyCash
• ZippyLoan
• PersonalLoan
• NextDayPersonalLoan
• Local credit unions
• Upgrade
• Upstart
• LendingPoint
• FundsJoy
• 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.