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Payday Loans in Columbus, OH – Online & Near Me

Apply for a payday loan

How to get a payday loan

Fast Online Payday Loan [ COLUMBUS ]

Possible types of loans:

  • $100, $200, $300, $400, $500, $600, $700, $800, $900, 1000 dollars are emergency payday loans in Columbus Ohio USA, which are issued for a period of 1, 2, 3 or 4 weeks (until your next salaries).
  • $1500, $2000, $2500, $3000, $3500, $4000, $4500, $5000 – Columbus, OH installment loans that can be taken out for terms of up to 2 years (most often 1, 6, 9, 12 or 3 months).

To get fast online cash advances (payday or personal loans, short-term loans, fast cash) with instant approval in Columbus, OH, USA, use our simple 5-minute application form! The money will be credited to your bank account within 24-48 hours (or faster) after approval.


Cash Advance Near Me :: Columbus Ohio Direct Lenders (list of offline stores and agencies nearby)

CompanyAddressPhone
CheckSmart1624 E Dublin Granville Rd, Columbus, OH 43229+1 614-882-2217
OneMain Financial3863 S High St, Columbus, OH 43207+1 614-492-1731
Advance America3296 S High St, Columbus, OH 43207+1 614-492-8160
CheckSmart170 N Wilson Rd, Columbus, OH 43204+1 614-276-3334
OneMain Financial6003 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43213+1 614-866-6309
CheckSmart2013 Zettler Center Dr, Columbus, OH 43223+1 614-274-9338

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About Short-Term Loans in Columbus Ohio

When unexpected expenses arise between paychecks, many Columbus residents consider short-term loan options like cash advances, payday loans, or installment loans. This comprehensive guide explains how these financial products work under Ohio law, their significant costs, associated risks, and smarter alternatives available in Franklin County.

Understanding Your Short-Term Loan Options

Payday Loans (Cash Advances)

  • Structure: Small, short-term loans requiring full repayment by your next payday
  • Loan Amounts: $100-$1,000 (Ohio allows up to $1,000)
  • Term Length: Typically 91 days to 1 year under Ohio’s lending laws
  • Funding Speed: Often same-day or next-business-day funding
  • Credit Check: Minimal or no credit check required
  • High Cost: APRs can still reach triple digits despite reforms

Installment Loans

  • Structure: Larger loans repaid through multiple scheduled payments
  • Loan Amounts: $1,000-$5,000+ depending on lender
  • Term Length: Several months to several years
  • Credit Check: Usually involves credit checks
  • Cost: APRs typically range from 25%-100% (higher than traditional loans)

Ohio Regulations: What Columbus Borrowers Should Know

The Ohio Division of Financial Institutions regulates short-term loans with these provisions:

For Short-Term Loans:

  • Maximum Loan Amount: $1,000
  • Maximum Term: 12 months
  • Interest Rate Cap: 28% APR maximum
  • Maximum Fees: 10% of loan amount for loans over $500, $50 for loans under $500
  • Database: Lenders must check a statewide database to track borrowing

For Installment Loans:

  • Rates and terms vary by lender
  • Must provide full disclosure of all terms
  • Prepayment penalties are prohibited

Real Cost Comparison

Example of a $500 Short-Term Loan in Columbus:

  • Maximum finance charge: $50
  • Interest: Approximately $32 for 6 months (at 28% APR)
  • Total repayment: $582
  • Equivalent APR: 28% (significantly lower than previous payday loan models)

Example of a $2,500 Installment Loan (12-month term at 60% APR):

  • Monthly payment: Approximately $275
  • Total repayment: $3,300
  • Total interest: $800

Significant Risks of Short-Term Borrowing

  • Debt Cycle: Monthly payments can still strain budgets
  • Bank Account Access: Lenders typically require electronic access to your bank account
  • Credit Damage: Defaulting can severely impact your credit score
  • Collection Practices: Aggressive collection actions may begin after missed payments
  • Alternative Lenders: Some online lenders may circumvent Ohio laws

Smart Alternatives for Columbus Residents

Before choosing a high-cost loan, consider these options:

  1. Credit Union Alternatives: Columbus residents have access to several credit unions like Kemba Financial Credit Union or Telhio Credit Union that offer Payday Alternative Loans with reasonable rates
  2. Payment Plans: Many Columbus utility companies (AEP Ohio), healthcare providers, and landlords offer payment plans or hardship programs
  3. Community Assistance Programs: Organizations like IMPACT Community ActionThe Salvation Army of Central Ohio, or Mid-Ohio Food Collective provide emergency assistance
  4. Side Income Opportunities: Columbus’s growing economy offers various gig economy opportunities through Ohio State University, healthcare facilities, and numerous corporations
  5. Nonprofit Financial Counseling: Free services are available through organizations like Apprisen (formerly CCCS of Ohio)

Responsible Borrowing Practices

If you decide to proceed with a short-term loan:

  • Verify the lender is licensed with the Ohio Division of Financial Institutions
  • Read the entire contract carefully, paying special attention to the APR
  • Calculate the total repayment amount before signing
  • Ensure you have a concrete plan for repayment
  • Avoid borrowing from multiple lenders simultaneously
  • Consider borrowing only what you absolutely need

Where to Find Help in Columbus

If you’re struggling with debt:

  • Legal Aid Society of Columbus: Provides free legal help (614-241-2001)
  • United Way 211: Connects residents to local resources (dial 211)
  • Columbus Financial Empowerment Center: Offers free financial counseling services

Local Columbus Resources

Columbus offers several community-specific resources:

  • Franklin County Department of Job and Family Services: Emergency assistance programs
  • OSU Student Financial Aid: Emergency loans for students
  • Columbus Housing Assistance: Help with rent and mortgage payments

The Bottom Line for Columbus Borrowers

While Ohio’s lending reforms have made short-term loans less predatory than in many states, these products still carry risks and higher costs than traditional financing. Columbus offers numerous community resources, credit union alternatives, and assistance programs that can provide financial relief without the cycle of debt. Your first step should always be to explore these safer alternatives before considering high-cost short-term loans.