How to Get a Payday Loan
| Form time | About 3 minutes |
|---|---|
| Documents | Photo ID, proof of income, checking account |
| Credit | All credit types considered |
| Decision | Often within minutes |
| Funding | Often next business day |
| Cost to use our form | Free, no obligation |
Getting a payday loan is simpler than you think
Unexpected bills happen: a car repair, a utility notice, a short paycheck. A payday loan is built for exactly that kind of gap. Most people can apply from their phone in a few minutes, and many get a decision right away. Here's how to get it handled, step by step.
Zebra Finance is a free loan-matching service. One short form sends your request to lenders in our network that serve your state, so you don't have to fill out application after application. See if you qualify; it takes about 3 minutes.
Step 1: Check what's available in your state
States set the rules for payday loans, including the maximum amount, the fee and how many loans you can have at once. Online lenders generally follow the law of the state where you live. Look up your state on payday loan laws by state or the state law lookup tool.
If payday loans aren't offered where you live, you can still use our form: lenders in our network may offer personal installment loans that fit your state's rules.
Step 2: Gather what you need
- Photo ID (driver's license, state ID or passport)
- Proof of income: recent pay stubs, a benefits award letter, or bank statements showing regular deposits
- An open checking account in your name, with routing and account numbers
- Social Security number or ITIN for identity verification
- A working phone number and email
- Age 18 or older (19 in a few states)
Having these ready speeds up approval. See the full list on payday loan requirements.
Step 3: Pick the right amount
Request the amount that covers what you need. Payday amounts are set by your state's cap, the lender's policy and your income; many states cap payday loans around $500. Lenders typically charge a fee per $100 borrowed, often $10 to $30. For example, at $15 per $100, a $300 loan costs $45 and you repay $345. Your lender shows the exact APR and terms before you sign.
How much will I repay?
Estimate only. Your lender shows your exact cost before you sign.
Need more than a payday loan allows? Our network also includes personal installment loans up to $5,000. More on the maximum payday loan amount.
Step 4: Fill out the form
Our form asks for basic details: how much you need, your income, how you're paid, and your bank account so funds can be deposited. It takes about 3 minutes. Many lenders focus on income and may use alternative credit data instead of a traditional hard pull, which is why people with less-than-perfect credit often still get offers.
Tips to improve your odds:
- Enter your income and pay dates exactly as they appear on your pay stub or deposits.
- Use the bank account where your income is deposited.
- Double-check your phone and email so the lender can reach you.
- Request an amount that fits your income.
Step 5: Review your offer and sign
If a lender approves you, you'll see the loan agreement before you commit. Check:
- The total amount you'll repay and the due date
- The finance charge in dollars and the APR
- How repayment is collected (usually an automatic debit) and on which date
- Any late or returned-payment fees
- Whether an extended payment plan is available
You're never obligated to accept an offer. If it fits your budget, sign electronically.
Step 6: Get your money
Once you sign, the lender typically sends funds by direct deposit, often by the next business day. Bank transfers don't settle on weekends or federal holidays, so a Friday-night request may arrive Monday. Details: payday loans on the weekend.
On payday, keep enough in your account for the scheduled debit. If you'll be short, contact your lender before the due date; many offer extended payment plans, and some states require them.
Special situations
Benefits income. Many lenders accept regular Social Security, disability, pension or other benefit income. See loans for Social Security recipients.
Bad credit. All credit types are considered. See payday loans for bad credit.
No bank account. Most online lenders need a checking account to deposit funds. See payday loans with no bank account.
Active-duty military. Covered loans to active-duty servicemembers and dependents follow the Military Lending Act; a personal loan may be the better fit.
Watch for fakes. Real lenders never ask for an upfront fee before you get your money, and our service is always free. See how to spot a fake lender.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I get a payday loan?
Payday loans are offered by licensed storefront and online lenders in states that allow them. The fastest route is usually online: our free form takes about 3 minutes and sends your request to lenders in our network that serve your state. If payday loans aren't available where you live, lenders may offer a personal installment loan instead.
How do I get a payday loan online?
Complete an online form with your ID details, income and checking account information. Lenders often make a decision in minutes. If approved, review the electronic agreement, including the total to repay, APR and debit date, then sign. Funds are usually deposited by direct deposit, often by the next business day.
Can you get a payday loan with bad credit?
Often, yes. Many payday lenders focus on your income and bank account rather than a traditional credit score, and may use alternative credit data instead of a hard pull from the major bureaus. All credit types are considered through our form. Approval isn't guaranteed and depends on each lender's review.
Can you get a payday loan without a job?
Some lenders accept regular non-job income, such as Social Security, disability, pension or other benefits, as long as it's deposited to your account on a regular schedule. Lenders need to see a steady source of repayment. Enter your benefit income on our form and lenders will review it.
How fast can I get a payday loan?
The form takes about 3 minutes and lenders often decide within minutes. After you sign, funds are often deposited the next business day, and sometimes the same day depending on the lender and your bank. Applying early on a weekday usually gets money to you fastest.