Maine Short-term Loan Terms and Rules in 2025

Common Capital is a Help Organization dedicated to providing the public with comprehensive, accurate, and accessible online information about payday loans in Maine.

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Short-term Loans Terms in Maine

Legal Status Legal
Maximum Loan Amount $2,000
Finance Charges less than $75: $5
from $75 to $250: $15
more than $250: $25
Interest Rate (APR) 30%
Minimum Loan Term Not Specified
Maximum Loan Term Not Specified

Short-term Loan Calculator

$250 Your Loan + $6.73 Your Fee =
$256.73 Total Cost

This loan calculator is provided as an estimator only. The details of your loan will depend on several factors including, but not limited to: loan amount, term, annual percentage rate (APR), fees, the state you live in, and the lender’s conditions. These details vary lender to lender and are subject to change at any time. The details of your loan will be provided to you by your lender.

Top Licensed Short-term Loan Lenders in Maine

Explore our handpicked collection of the top licensed payday loan lenders in Maine, strategically chosen to provide you with secure and rapid financial solutions for your pressing needs.

Lender
User Ratings
Branches
Cities
Category
Saco & Biddeford Savings Institution
User Raiting:
4.50
Branches: 2
Cities: 2
Category: Bank
Kennebunk Savings
User Raiting:
3.78
Branches: 8
Cities: 6
Category: Bank
Katahdin Trust
User Raiting:
2.50
Branches: 3
Cities: 3
Category: Bank

Maine Short-term Loan Regulations

In Maine, payday loan regulations are less restrictive compared to many other states, primarily due to the state's broader stance on small loans. Under Maine's Consumer Credit Code, payday lenders are categorized as Supervised Lenders, but they are not subject to the same stringent regulations as in many other states. However, there are still specific rules that apply. While there is no statutory cap on the amount that can be borrowed, the law does impose a small loan rate cap of 30% interest on loans less than $2,000.

For federal compliance, payday lenders in Maine are subject to the Truth in Lending Act, which requires lenders to disclose the cost of the loan in terms of the finance charge and the annual percentage rate (APR). Additionally, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act applies, regulating how debts are collected and prohibiting abusive, deceptive, and unfair collection practices.

It's important to note that while Maine's regulations might allow for more flexibility, consumers should still exercise caution and fully understand the terms of any payday loan they consider. These federal and state regulations are designed to protect consumers from unfair lending and collection practices.

What Are the Alternatives for Short-term Loans in Maine?

When searching for alternatives to payday loans, residents have several options to consider. These include installment loans, which offer structured repayment plans, and personal loans, providing flexibility and potentially lower interest rates. Exploring these alternatives can help borrowers manage their finances more effectively and avoid the high costs associated with payday lending

Guaranteed Installment Loans

In Maine, guaranteed installment loans provide a structured repayment plan, ideal for those needing predictable monthly payments. Unlike payday loans, these require a credit check and proof of income, offering longer terms and potentially lower interest rates. They are suitable for Mainers looking to manage larger expenses or consolidate debts more effectively.

Fast Title Loans

Fast title loans in Maine offer immediate funding using a vehicle as collateral. Unlike payday loans, they require ownership of a car but can offer larger loan amounts based on the vehicle's value. This option is a quick solution for urgent cash needs without the stringent credit checks of traditional loans.

Emergency Loan without a Bank Account

For Maine residents without traditional banking, an emergency loan without a bank account offers a crucial alternative. These loans differ from payday lending as they don't always require a checking account for approval, ideal for those facing unexpected expenses but lacking standard banking services.

Debt Consolidation Loan

A debt consolidation loan in Maine is designed to combine multiple debts into a single loan. Unlike payday loan services, it offers longer repayment terms and potentially lower interest rates, making it an excellent strategy for Mainers looking to streamline their finances and reduce overall debt costs.

Instant Personal Loans

Instant personal loans provide quick financial relief in Maine, often with same-day approval. Unlike cash advances, they may require a credit check but offer more flexibility in loan amounts and repayment terms, making them an ideal solution for immediate personal financial needs.

Cash Loans with No Credit

In Maine, cash loans with no credit cater to individuals without a strong credit history. Unlike traditional payday loans, these loans don't always require a credit check, making them accessible to a broader range of people in need of immediate cash but with limited credit options.

Bad Credit Loans

Bad credit loans in Maine offer individuals with poor credit scores a chance to borrow, despite past financial challenges. Different from payday loans, these loans may have more favorable terms and focus on the borrower's ability to repay, providing a valuable opportunity for those aiming to rebuild their credit history.

Quick P2P Loans

Quick P2P (peer-to-peer) loans in Maine connect borrowers directly with individual lenders, bypassing traditional financial institutions. These loans differ from payday loans by offering potentially lower interest rates and more flexible terms, appealing to those in Maine seeking alternative lending options outside of conventional banking systems.

How to Get a Short-term Loan with Bad Credit?

Easy Steps to Get Payday Loans With Bad Credit

In Maine, managing financial challenges with a less-than-ideal credit score is possible through payday loans. The process is straightforward, involving minimal paperwork and hassle. Begin by finding a reputable payday lender and completing their application, which requires personal and financial information. Approval typically hinges on your income and ability to repay, rather than your credit score. Once approved, you can access the funds within hours, addressing your financial emergencies promptly.

Requirements to Get Paycheck Loans With Low Credit Score

Maine payday loans are accessible, even for those with a low credit score. Qualification usually requires Maine residency, a stable income, a valid ID, and an active checking account. These criteria are less stringent than those for traditional loans, making payday loans a practical choice for many facing unforeseen expenses. While payday loans can be a useful financial tool, it's crucial to use them responsibly and ensure timely repayment to avoid additional fees and financial stress.

Basic Information about Maine State

Metrics
Value
State Capital
Augusta
Population
Approximately 1.3 million (as of 2021)
Location
Maine is situated in the northeastern region of the United States, known for its rugged coastline and natural beauty.
Largest City by Population
Portland
Biggest National Parks
Acadia National Park, Baxter State Park, Allagash Wilderness Waterway

Submit a Complaint Against a Lender in Maine

If you need to submit a complaint against a payday lender in Maine, the primary regulatory body is the Maine Bureau of Consumer Credit Protection. They ensure compliance with state laws governing payday loans. You can reach them at:

  • Maine Bureau of Consumer Credit Protection, 35 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333-0035
  • (207) 624-8527
Submit a Complaint

FAQ

Are Payday Loans Legal in Maine?

Payday loans are legal in Maine, but they are subject to specific regulations to protect consumers. The Maine Bureau of Consumer Credit Protection oversees and enforces these regulations to ensure fair lending practices.

Can Payday Loan Debt Be Forgiven?

Payday loan debt can be challenging to manage, and complete forgiveness is not common. However, borrowers facing difficulties can explore options like debt consolidation or repayment plans to make the process more manageable. Communication with the lender is essential if you're struggling to repay the loan.

Can You Get a Payday Loan Without a Bank Account?

In most cases, obtaining a payday loan in Maine requires having a bank account. Lenders typically use bank accounts for loan disbursement and repayment. While some alternative financial services may offer payday-like loans without a bank account, they often come with higher fees and risks.

Are Payday Loans Fixed or Variable?

Payday loans in Maine typically involve fixed fees, meaning the cost of borrowing remains consistent throughout the loan term. However, the annual percentage rate (APR) can vary depending on the loan amount and term. It's crucial to review the loan terms and understand the total cost before borrowing.

Is a Payday Loan Secured or Unsecured?

Payday loans in Maine are unsecured loans, meaning they do not require collateral. Approval for a payday loan is primarily based on the borrower's income and employment status. Unlike secured loans, such as auto title loans, payday loans do not put assets at risk.

How Long Do Payday Loans Stay in the System?

Information about payday loans can remain in the financial system for several years. Late payments or defaults on payday loans may be reported to credit bureaus, impacting your credit score and making it more challenging to secure new loans in the future. Timely repayment is crucial to avoid long-term consequences.

Maine Short-term Loans Near Me

Alfred Arundel Ashland Auburn Augusta Bailey Island Baileyville Bangor Bar Harbor Bath Belfast Belgrade Berwick Bethel Biddeford Blue Hill Boothbay Harbor Bowdoinham Brewer Bridgton Brownville Brunswick Buckfield Bucksport Buxton Calais Camden Cape Elizabeth Caribou Carrabassett Valley Casco Castine Corinth Cornish Cumberland Cumberland Foreside Damariscotta Danforth Deer Isle Dexter Dover foxcroft Eagle Lake East Millinocket East Waterboro Eastport Edgecomb Eliot Ellsworth Fairfield Falls Falmouth Farmingdale Farmington Fort Fairfield Fort Kent Freeport Fryeburg Gardiner Gloucester Gorham Gouldsboro Grand Lake Stream Gray Greenville Greenville Junction Greenwood Guilford Hallowell Hampden Harrison Hermon Hope Houlton Howland Island Falls Jackman Jay Jonesport Kennebunk Kennebunkport Kingfield Kittery Lewiston Limerick Lincoln Lisbon Lisbon Falls Livermore Falls Lubec Machias Madawaska Madison Manchester Mechanic Falls Mexico Milbridge Millinocket Milo Monmouth Morrill Mt Desert Naples New Gloucester New Harbor Newport Newry Norridgewock North Berwick North Vassalboro North Waterboro Northeast Harbor Norway Oakland Ogunquit Old Orchard Beach Old Town Orono Orr's Island Orrington Otis Oxford Parsonsfield Patten Pittsfield Poland Portland Presque Isle Princeton Rangeley Readfield Richmond Rockland Rockport Rumford Sabattus Saco Sanford Sangerville Scarborough Searsport Sebago Shapleigh Skowhegan South Berwick South Paris South Portland South Thomaston Southwest Harbor Springvale St Agatha St Francis Standish Thomaston Topsham Trenton Turner Union Unity Van Buren Waldoboro Warren Waterboro Waterville Wells Westbrook Wilton Windham Winslow Winter Harbor Winterport Winthrop Wiscasset Yarmouth York