Payday Loans are Legal in Nebraska

Beware of predatory lending

Payday Lenders in Nebraska

Payday loans provide a quick financial lifeline for those facing immediate cash needs in Nebraska, bridging the gap until their next paycheck arrives. Statistics show that approximately 1 in 10 adults in the state have used a payday loan at some point. However, Nebraska has put in place a stringent regulatory framework designed to protect borrowers in the state from predatory lending practices. They have implemented laws that limit interest rates, fees, and the number of simultaneous loans an individual can have.

By imposing these strict regulations, Nebraska aims to ensure fair lending practices and prevent borrowers from falling into cycles of debt. Licensed lenders are required to comply with these regulations, but borrowers must exercise caution when seeking payday loans to avoid unscrupulous lenders who may attempt to exploit their financial vulnerability.

Despite the safeguards in place, the rise of online lending has introduced new challenges to Nebraska’s payday loan landscape. Predatory lenders often target vulnerable individuals, particularly through online platforms, luring them with promises of quick and easy access to funds. According to state laws, lenders without a physical location are deemed illegal in the state. To navigate the payday loan market safely, borrowers must remain vigilant and conduct thorough research on potential lenders. Legitimate lenders will be licensed and transparent about loan terms, including interest rates and fees. It is crucial for borrowers to be wary of lenders who demand upfront fees or guarantee loan approval without conducting proper credit checks. By staying informed and cautious, borrowers can protect themselves from predatory practices and make informed decisions regarding their financial well-being.

Payday Loan Laws

Nebraska has put in place very strict laws to regulate the payday loan industry and protect consumers. These laws limit the maximum loan amount, cap the interest rates and fees that lenders can charge, and prohibit rollovers or multiple loans from being issued to the same borrower. Licensed lenders are also required to comply with transparency and disclosure requirements, ensuring borrowers have access to clear information about the terms and costs of the loans. Licenced lenders are also required by law to have a physical location in the state, meaning they cannot solely operate online.

The State of Nebraska has two main pieces of legislation surrounding payday loans:

Loan Terms and Conditions

Maximum loan amount: $500

Maximum Interest Rate: 36%

Minimum loan term: no minimum in regulation

Maximum loan term: 34 days

Number of rollovers allowed: None

Finance Charge: not specified in regulation, but overall cannot exceed the 36% cap

Legal action: 6 Years

Certified Payday Lenders in Nebraska

Company Name	Company score	License Status
Big Picture Loans, LLC	8	Valid
Delbert Services	7.6	Valid
Advance America, Cash Advance Centers, Inc.	7.2	Valid
CASHCALL, INC	6.8	Valid
LDF Holdings, LLC	6.5	Valid
Crow Creek Sioux Tribe	5.9	Valid

History of Nebraska Payday Loans

Payday loans emerged on the Nebraska scene in 1994, ushering in a new era of financial dynamics. In 2000, LB 932 granted lenders the leeway to extend check holding periods for non-negotiable checks, extending their reach beyond the conventional 31-day timeframe. Building on this, LB 876 took effect in 2006, refining the payday loan landscape by expanding loan terms to 34 days while firmly forbidding roll-overs. However, a subsequent attempt in 2016 to impose a 36% APR limit hit a roadblock. Progress eventually came on April 19, 2018, when the unanimous passage of LB 194 reshaped the payday loan industry. Closing regulatory loopholes, mandating reporting requirements, and introducing short payment plans, LB 194 marked a turning point in the industry’s evolution. The November 3, 2020 implementation of Initiative 428 further solidified this momentum, imposing restrictions on annual interest rates, loan amounts, and loan terms.

State Resources

How to file a complaint

The Nebraska Division of Finance and Banking accepts complaints against payday lenders. Complaints can be filed online or mailed to their office.

Nebraska Payday Loans Debt Relief

How to Get out of Payday Loan Debt?

Escaping the clutches of payday loan debt in Nebraska requires a strategic approach and steadfast determination. Begin by establishing open lines of communication with your lender, expressing your financial difficulties, and exploring possible alternatives. Negotiating a repayment plan that reduces the amount owed or extends the payment term can alleviate the burden. Consider seeking financial counseling services or reaching out to non-profit organizations that specialize in debt management to gain valuable insights and support. Explore the possibility of consolidating your debt into a single, more manageable loan with lower interest rates. It is crucial to resist the temptation of taking out additional payday loans to cover existing debts. Prioritize budgeting and expense management, cutting unnecessary expenses, and seeking additional sources of income to accelerate debt repayment.

Support Resources

Types of Quick Loans in Nebraska

Lines of Credit Personal lines of credit offer flexible borrowing solutions in Nebraska, allowing individuals to access funds as needed for various purposes. In Nebraska, the average credit limit for personal lines of credit is around $15,000, providing borrowers with substantial financial flexibility. These credit lines are available through a range of financial institutions, including banks and credit unions, with interest rates typically varying based on the borrower's creditworthiness. The convenience of accessing funds on an as-needed basis, combined with the ability to pay interest only on the amount used, makes personal lines of credit a popular choice among Nebraska residents seeking financial flexibility and control.

Installment Loans In Nebraska, installment loans are a prevalent form of borrowing, commonly utilized for significant purchases or consolidating debt. The average installment loan in Nebraska is $7,000, with repayment terms typically ranging from 12 to 60 months. These loans are regulated by the state, ensuring that borrowers are protected by licensing requirements and state regulations. With installment loans, borrowers have the opportunity to repay the loan over time through regular monthly installments, providing a structured and manageable approach to debt repayment.

Cash Advance Apps For Nebraska residents seeking short-term cash loans, cash advance apps offer a convenient and accessible option. These apps provide quick access to funds, with some apps offering instant approval and disbursement. Due to state regulations, certain cash advance apps may not be available in Nebraska, so it is essential to research and compare different apps to find a reliable and trustworthy option that complies with local laws and regulations. Borrowers should carefully review the terms and conditions to understand the associated fees and repayment terms before utilizing cash advance apps.

Alternatives to Payday Loans in Nebraska

Personal Loans

Personal loans in Nebraska provide an option for borrowers who need access to funds for a variety of purposes, such as medical expenses, home repairs, or debt consolidation. With fixed interest rates and flexible repayment terms ranging from 12 to 60 months, personal loans provide stability and predictability. Lenders have varying credit and income requirements, and collateral may or may not be necessary, making it essential to explore different options and negotiate the best terms available for individual circumstances.

Home Equity Loans

Nebraska homeowners can tap into the equity they've built in their properties through home equity loans, enabling them to fund important ventures like home improvements, debt consolidation, or educational expenses. These loans typically feature fixed interest rates and extended repayment periods, offering stability and manageable monthly payments. Qualification requirements include sufficient equity in the property and a solid credit history, prompting borrowers to carefully compare offers from different lenders to secure the most favorable terms for their unique situations.

Construction Loans

Building a new home or undertaking significant renovations in Nebraska calls for specialized financing, and that's where construction loans come into play. With variable interest rates and short-term repayment periods, these loans provide the necessary funds for construction-related expenses. Borrowers must provide detailed plans, budget estimates, and proof of income to qualify for this type of loan. Construction loans may involve progressive payments throughout the building process and potentially require a down payment, making it crucial for borrowers to plan and budget accordingly.

Bad Credit Loans in Nebraska

Individuals in Nebraska facing the challenges related to bad credit can explore specific loan options tailored to their circumstances. While obtaining a loan with poor credit can be difficult, there are lenders who offer bad credit loans as a means to help individuals rebuild their creditworthiness. These loans may involve higher interest rates and fees, underscoring the importance of carefully evaluating repayment capacity and considering alternative options, such as secured loans or co-signed loans. By exercising caution and responsible borrowing, individuals can seize the opportunity to improve their credit situation while accessing the necessary funds.

Nebraska Small Business Loans

Nebraska provides several types of small business loans with different requirements and terms:

SBA loans: The Small Business Administration offers loans through its network of lending partners for eligible small businesses in Nebraska.
Nebraska Business and Innovation Act (BIA) Loans: TThe Nebraska Department of Economic Development administers the BIA loan program, which provides financing to businesses involved in innovative technology, research, or development. These loans aim to foster economic growth and promote job creation in Nebraska.
Equipment financing: Equipment financing allows businesses to acquire necessary equipment by securing a loan specifically for that purpose. Lenders may offer favorable terms and interest rates based on the value and useful life of the equipment.
Invoice factoring: Businesses can leverage their accounts receivable to secure immediate funding through invoice financing. This option provides access to cash by selling outstanding invoices to a lender at a discount.
Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC) Loans: The NBDC, in partnership with local lenders, provides loans to small businesses in Nebraska. These loans support business growth, innovation, and job creation across the state.

VA loans in Nebraska

For active-duty military personnel, veterans, and eligible surviving spouses in Nebraska, VA loans provide a pathway to homeownership with attractive benefits. These loans require no down payment, offer competitive interest rates, and eliminate the need for private mortgage insurance. Whether purchasing or refinancing a home, borrowers must provide evidence of military service and meet credit and income requirements set by the lender. Collaborating with a VA-approved lender ensures adherence to regulations and enables borrowers to make informed decisions regarding their financial future.

Nebraska Student Loans

Many options are available to Nebraska students to help finance their college education. These options include:

Federal Student Loans: Nebraska students have access to federal student loans, an invaluable financial resource that they can use for college tuition and other associated costs.

Nebraska Opportunity Grant: A need-based grant program administered by the Nebraska Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education. While not a loan, it provides financial assistance to Nebraska residents attending eligible Nebraska colleges and universities.

Nebraska State College System Loan Forgiveness Programs: The Nebraska State College System offers loan forgiveness programs for graduates who work in designated shortage areas in Nebraska, such as teaching in high-need subjects or practicing in certain healthcare professions.

Private Student Loans: Offered by banks, credit unions, and other private lenders, and often have higher interest rates than federal or state funding. Students can use these to cover education expenses that federal loans don't cover.

Nebraska Income Information

According to the 2021 U.S. Census, Nebraska had a median household income of $66,644, slightly below its national median of $69,021. Nebraska’s economy is diverse, with agriculture being a significant contributor alongside industries such as manufacturing, services, and information technology. The state’s strong work ethic, low unemployment rate, and focus on innovation have played a role in fostering economic growth and stability. The poverty percentage in Nebraska in 2021 was 10.8%. Income and poverty levels vary drastically depending on the county. Sarpy County has the highest median household income of $83,051, while Brown County has the lowest, at $41,979.

United States Census Bureau. “Poverty in the United States: 2021.” Accessed on May 10, 2023.
United States Census Bureau. U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: Nebraska. Accessed on May 10, 2023

Nebraska Payday Lender Complaints

Below are trends associated with the top payday lenders in Nebraska, as reported to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

Company Name	Count
Big Picture Loans, LLC	10
Delbert Services	6
Advance America, Cash Advance Centers, Inc.	3
CASHCALL, INC	2
LDF Holdings, LLC	2
Crow Creek Sioux Tribe	2
Total Complaints	49

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Consumer Complaint Database. Accessed on May 10, 2023.

Most Common Issues

Complaint type	Count
Charged unexpected interest or fees	18
Struggling to pay loan	10
Can’t stop withdrawals from bank	6
Unable to contact lender	5
Received a loan didn’t apply for	4

What are the main reasons residents of Nebraska apply for payday cash advance online or offline

Payday loans are typically used for nonnegotiable everyday expenses like your rent, utilities, and groceries. Per data reported by Pewtrust, the percentage of reasons described below

Reason	Share
Regular Expenses (Utilities, car payment)	53%
Unexpected emergency/expense	16%
Rent/Mortgage	10%
Something Special	8%
Other	5%
Did not answer	2%

Payday Lenders by City

Omaha
Lincoln
Bellevue
Grand Island
Kearney
Fremont
Hastings
Norfolk
Columbus
Papillion

North Platte
La Vista
Scottsbluff
South Sioux City
Beatrice
Chalco
Lexington
Gering
Alliance
York

Blair
Seward
McCook
Crete
Nebraska City
Plattsmouth
Schuyler
Sidney
Ralston
Wayne

Frequently Asked Questions

Will applying for a payday loan impact my credit?

Payday loans are typically not reported to the three major credit reporting agencies, and most lenders do not conduct credit checks as part of their application process.

What do I need to apply for a payday loan?

To apply for a payday loan in Nebraska, you will typically need to provide your identification, proof of income, bank account information, and contact information.

Can I cancel my payday loan?

Yes, you can cancel your payday loan in Nebraska. According to state law, you have until 5:00 p.m. the business day following the date of the loan to cancel the loan.

Can a payday loan lender garnish my wages?

A payday lender in Nebraska can garnish your wages if they obtain a court judgment against you.

Can spouses have separate loans?

There is no specific law in Nebraska that prohibits spouses from having separate payday loans, but lenders may have their own policies regarding the approval of multiple loans for the same household.

When will I receive my funds if I am approved for a payday loan?

You will receive your funds on the same day or the next business day, depending on the lender’s policies and the timing of your application.

What happens if I can’t repay my payday loan on time?

The lender may charge additional fees and interest and take legal action to collect the debt.

When could I apply for another payday loan?

In Nebraska, you can apply for another payday loan as soon as your current loan is paid off.