Title Loans – Why & How to Get One

Sometimes unexpected things happen and you need money fast. For those with poor credit, you may have trouble finding an institution to loan you money to pay for such an emergency. In such cases, some people turn to a payday loan to get limited amounts (sometimes up to $500) to be repaid with your next paycheck. A title loan provides slightly different loan terms. Borrowers can get more money by offering their car as collateral.

But if you’ve never taken out a title loan before, you may be wondering if it’s worth doing. You may even be asking, “What is a title loan?” “Can I get a title loan through a bank?” Fortunately, we can help.

Keep reading below to find out what a title loan is, how to get one, and why it might be worth it. When you’re ready, enter your ZIP code into our free comparison tool above to find affordable title loans from lenders in your area.

What is a title loan?

A title loan is just like any other loan except instead of using your credit score to justify the loan you use your car title as collateral. It’s meant to be a short-term loan for emergency funds or other immediate needs.

You will only be able to take out a loan worth a fraction of the value of your vehicle, which is why title loans are typically for small amounts from as little as $100 to as much as $6,000.

Unlike other loans, title loans don’t require a credit check. This makes them extremely easy to get, especially for those with poor credit who need money fast.

Keep in mind that title loans are short-term loans, usually for 15 to 30 days. Because lenders charge higher than usual fees for these loans, you don’t want to take out a title loan for more than one month. If you do keep it open for more than a month, it will come with high interest rates.

How do I get a title loan?

In order to get a title loan you have to own your car outright, that is, own the car’s title. If you lease your car or still owe money on it for a traditional auto loan, then you won’t be able to get an online title loan.

Your lender may also ask for your driver’s license, a picture of your vehicle, and proof of insurance before they decide to lend to you. They usually won’t run a credit check.

If you’re approved for the loan, then you’ll give your car title to the lender and they’ll hold onto it for the length of the loan. You’ll still be able to use your car, but if you default or fail to make a payment, they could repossess the car on you.

Because the approval process is so simple and you get your money fast, title loans are great if you need money immediately. Depending on the lender, you can apply in person or online. Some lenders also take applications over the phone initially.

Is a title loan worth it?

If you or your family are in need of money to pay an emergency medical bill or some other sudden expense, then a title loan may well be worth it for you.

If you try to get a standard loan on short notice, you may not see the money for weeks. For some people, a traditional auto loan may still be the better option. It depends partly on your financial situation. Even for low credit borrowers, an auto loan only requires minimal proof of income and other documentation. Generally, auto loans are larger, though. So if you really only need $100 or $200, your credit union would not offer a traditional loan.

However, keep in mind that title loans can be extremely expensive long term. Lenders can charge as much as 25% of the loan amount per month to pay for the loan. That’s a hefty charge for such a small loan. Unfortunately, many borrowers get trapped in situations of making only the minimum payment each month and racking up more fees.

Because of the high fees and interest rates, it’s important you pay back your title loan as quickly as possible. Otherwise, you could end up paying back far more than the loan was worth or even lose possession of your vehicle.

In fact, according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, one in five auto title loan borrowers have their vehicle seized for failing to repay debt.

Even so, a title loan can be crucial for financial emergencies. You may be tempted to go online and find other ways to get money fast, but never borrow money from strangers online. It’s just not safe.

Where Can You Find The Type of Loan That Meets Your Needs?

It’s best to not wait until you’re in a pinch to apply for different cash loans or other financial assistance. If you have bad credit, it may be tempting to think nobody will lend to you, but this simply isn’t true. If you go online, brokers can do the searching for you and offer you a monthly payment and options that make sense for you. If you feel a title loan is the better option for you right now, you can fill out an online application for quick approval.

Now you know the answer to the question, “What is a title loan?” If you need a loan fast, enter your ZIP code into our free comparison tool below to find affordable title loans from lenders in your area.