What is an installment loan?
An installment loan is a loan that usually has a fixed amount over a fixed monthly repayment schedule. Each repayment is an installment, hence the name. The majority of loans are a type of installment loan.
How does it work?
You decide on the amount you would like to borrow and, if accepted by a lender, you repay it back over a set number of months or years. The will provide details of how much and when repayments are due.
Consider:
- APR and terms are largely based on your credit score. Negative comments on your credit report will affect your ability to be accepted. It will also impact interest rates if accepted.
- Some lenders may charge you fees for applying or charge a fee if you wish to pay the loan back earlier than agreed.
- It may be cheaper to look for a 0% credit card if borrowing a low amount and paying the full amount off before you get charged.
- Do your research- can you afford it and have you got the best deal available to you?
- If you take out a secured loan, your home or vehicle may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments.
Benefits
- With a fixed rate loan, you can be confident that you will be able to budget better as you will pay a set amount every month.
- The debt is settled when the borrowed amount is fully repaid. .
- You have the freedom to use your loan for the purpose you choose such as: extra cash, a holiday, car repairs, home decorating etc, rather than, for example, car finance loans having to be used only on a car purchase.
- From a small to a large amount and short to longer repayments, installment loans can be a great help in a lot of situations.
Installment Loans vs. Payday Loans: Making the Right Choice
When facing a financial crunch, you might consider either an installment loan or a payday loan. Understanding the key differences between these options is crucial for making an informed decision:
Installment Loans:
- Longer repayment terms (months to years)
- Lower interest rates (typically 6% – 36% APR)
- Larger loan amounts available
- Regular, fixed payments
- Can help build credit if reported to credit bureaus
- May require a credit check
Payday Loans:
- Very short terms (usually due by next payday)
- Extremely high interest rates (often 300% – 400% APR or more)
- Small loan amounts (typically up to $500)
- Lump sum repayment
- Generally don’t help build credit
- Often no credit check required
Payday loans may seem easy because they have quick approval and no credit checks. However, they can create a cycle of debt. This happens because they have high costs and short repayment terms.
Installment loans provide easier repayment terms and lower interest rates. This makes them a better borrowing choice for many situations.
Consider your financial situation carefully. If you need a little money fast and can pay it back by your next paycheck, a payday loan could be an option. However, for most borrowing needs, an installment loan is likely to be a more responsible and cost-effective choice.