Title loans in California

Title Loans in California - Beat the Golden Coast Financial Crisis

As Katy Perry would say, nothing comes close to the Golden Coast, unless you need urgent cash or emergency money?

What can you resort to when you need fast cash for your expenses in California?

Let's both check out this comprehensive guide on title loans in California and find out!

Let's Talk More About Car Title Loans

The number one option in securing your most needed cash in the most unexpected time is car title loans.

However, procedures may vary in different locations.

As for acquiring a car title loan in California, there may be a few steps that you need to follow carefully.

In California, auto title loans are small cash loans where the borrower uses their car’s title as collateral to secure the loan.

Auto title loans in California have a minimum loan amount of $2,510.

Regular loans are used for a specific purchase, but you can use the money from a car title loan for any purpose the borrower may need it.

They can use it for the following:

• Pay some overdue bills
• Make a down payment for a purchase
• Any scenario that the borrower needs the money for

As long as the borrower makes their payments on the loan ON TIME, they can keep driving their car and use the cash for their needs!

How Do They Work?

Most of the loans consider a potential borrower's:

• Credit score
• Financial statements
• Employment history

Most lenders though not all, look at these factors to determine the suitability and how much money to lend borrowers.

Certain types of loans allow borrowers to use the equity in their property, such as their house, as collateral to secure their loan.

The borrower can benefit by using any property they own to secure the loan and becoming eligible for loan terms that are unavailable with an unsecured loan.

In short, title loans utilize the equity value in your car, motorcycle, or anything you would like to pawn as collateral.

The Application Process for Car Title Loans in California

Here we have the following steps to follow when you firmly decide to get a car title loan.

There's no need for you to wait a couple of weeks to get approved because this usually takes less than 24 hours.

You can get approved on the same business day you applied.

Consider it a SAME-DAY cash loan too!

Step 1: Pick the Right Licensed Lender

Picking the right lender for your financial needs comes a long way, especially if it's your first time getting a car title loan.

Knowing that you chose the right licensed lender will give you excellent service is also an assurance that you are in good hands.

You can choose from several lenders, but many would kill for a lender with competitive interest rates.

Aside from the competitive interest rates, being a responsible lender would surely top the charts!

Step 2: Apply for a Loan Application

Once the lender is secured, you may apply for a loan application.

However, keep in mind that you need to be one of the qualified California residents to continue the application process.

Only then can you apply for an application!

Here are SOME WAYS you can apply for an application:

• You can apply online by visiting their website and simply filling out the online form.
• The online form will only ask for necessary basic information.
• Lenders can give you an estimate on how much money you qualify for, for no charge. 
• You can give the title loan company a call thru their hotline.

We recommend calling them on a business day to postpone or delay the process.

Providing authentic information will also speed up the process and avoid complications.

After you apply, a loan officer will be in touch with you shortly.

Step 3: Submit ALL California Title Loan Requirements

The California title loan requirements won't ask for so much from its potential borrowers.

But, having all of these documents will automatically have your application pre-qualified. However, this can only happen if all documents are up to date and authentic!

Because title loans are secured loans, typical qualifications like credit score do not have as much of an effect on the eligibility and terms.

Although these factors are still assessed in some cases, they do not weigh that much.

California Title Loan Requirements

To qualify for car title loans in California, you will need:

• The loan amount must be the state’s minimum loan amount of $2,510 or greater.
• The vehicle's equity value or the collateral must be greater than the loan amount.
• The proof of repayment must be proven and done.
• The vehicle or car must be fully paid for.

Documents needed are the following:

• Legalized vehicle title (vehicle title must only be in your name)
• Proof of residence
• Proof of income
• Photos of the car or motorcycle
• Government-issued photo ID (driver's license, Passport, Valid ID)

Failure to meet these requirements or complete all documents will delay the application.

Step 4: Know the Loan Terms and Conditions

If information is not disclosed, you will never know that other authorized third parties put hidden fees on loan.

This is where your lender comes to the rescue because they will brief you about the following:

• Loan Terms
• Repayment Terms
• Payment plans
• Hidden fees
• Prepayment penalties

This step becomes your chance to clarify EVERYTHING unclear to you with your lender.

Finding hidden fees is crucial because some car title loan companies do not disclose them.

Step 5: Claim Your Money

We're down to the last step! Indeed, California car title loans are that simple!

The last step only consists of claiming the loan amount you acquired.

For most car title loans, qualified California residents have THREE WAYS of claiming the actual loan amount or loan proceeds:

• You can get the cash instantly on-site of the title loan company you chose.
• You can request them to directly transfer the money to your electronic bank account.
• You can ask for mailed checks for the money.

Once you secure a title loan, it will not take away your rights and access to your vehicle until you repay the loan.

Spend the loan amount for financial difficulties or any purpose, and drive your car with ease.

Important Details You Cannot Miss

You must always remember financial institutions; not all will have the same protocol.

By this, we mean the need for having a great credit score. We disclosed that credit scores don't necessarily impact your loan application,

But this rule does not apply to the entire state.

If your chosen title loan company requires a credit check, hence a good credit score, bad credit can delay the process of your car title loan.

Having a bad credit score can still guarantee you auto title loans, but you won't be offered good deals with lower interests that could help you out.

Loan officers will prefer applicants with higher credit scores for competitive interest rates.

Advantages From Car Title Loans California

What's better than getting advantages and good deals, right? Here are some of the advantages that could be the final push to secure a car title loan.

Fewer Car Limitations

California title loans only have a few car limitations.

This means that your car or vehicle's year, make, and model won't hold you back from the lenders.

Potential borrowers can pawn more than one vehicle or car for collateral because few restrictions exist.

Low-Guarantee Rate

There is a guarantee for lower rates!

Low rates can direct you to loans that are fit to your needs. All in all, you get a title loan, and it's easy for you to pay back.

No Complicated Lengthy Approval Process

One of the best advantages of an auto title loan is not waiting for approval.

Another bonus is it not being complicated and lengthy at all! Skip all the waiting time and other paperwork from other financial institutions.

No Confiscation of Vehicle

When you take out a title loan, you do not have to surrender your vehicle until the loan is repaid, which is another benefit.

You can continue driving and using your vehicle while still having the loan secured against it.

Your vehicle or car will remain yours while you make monthly payments for the loan.

Convenient Payment Options

You may discuss with your lender about your payment plan.

Lower monthly payments can be talked about as well, whichever way is the most convenient for you. An auto title loan will be the one to adjust itself for your financial aid.

Things You Should Know Before Getting a Car Title Loan in California

There's more to procedures, costs, and advantages regarding cash loans, such as car title loans.

Other authorized third parties will surely have laws and regulations regarding money, and we are sure that kind of information should be shared with you.

California Financing Law

This section will expand on the California Financing Law and its relationship with car title loans!

What Is a California Financing Law License

The federal law requires the licensing and regulation of finance lenders and brokers making and brokering consumer and commercial loans, except as specified:

• Prohibits misrepresentations
• Fraudulent and deceptive acts in connection with making and brokering of loans
• Provides administrative, civil (injunction and ancillary relief), and criminal remedies for violations of the law

A finance lender's license provides the licensee with an exemption from the usury provision of the California Constitution.

Who Is Required to Have the License?

Any person associated with a finance lender or finance broker in California must obtain a license under the California Financing Law.

How Do You Apply for a Financing License?

If you are applying for a new license under the California Financing Law, apply through NMLS by choosing “Getting Started” on the NMLS Resource Center page.

Is It Required to Have California Car Title Loans Branches Authorized?

YES!

In addition to what the federal law requires, they also require a license for each branch location that conducts business with California consumers.

Minimum Loan Amount

A pink slip or title loan in California has a minimum loan amount of $2,510.

However, minimum loan amounts vary as well.

The loan amount that you get from pink slip loans in California can still depend on the equity value of your car or vehicle.

We suggest knowing how much money you need before getting a title loan.

That way, you can easily borrow money and pay it back on time!

Loan Officers

For the most part, loan officers offer title loans to consumers with less restriction.

You are fortunate if you get yourself a flexible loan officer willing to work with you genuinely.

But it is no surprise that each loan officer in California can offer title loans with many services!

We are sure that California title loans have some of the best lenders and lending officers you can reach to ask for financial help.

Hidden Fees

There are chances that your lender could not disclose hidden fees to you,

So, make it your job to look for them in the loan agreement and fine print given or sent to you. Hidden fees could be placed when you decide to pay early for the repayment.

Although so far, we are sure that there are no hidden fees present in California car title loans.

Tribal Lenders

What are tribal lenders?

You may not have heard of the term ‘tribal loan’ before. There are a few key differences between traditional and tribal payday loans.

How Is a Tribal Loan Different From a Payday Loan?

Payday loans are typically short-term loans for quantities of money less than $1,000.

These loans usually have very high-interest rates, meaning that borrowers deal with a complicated repayment process.

They are known for their unappealing loaning practices, often breaking state and federal laws.

On the other hand, tribal loans carry more risk for borrowers.

They have a significantly higher interest rate than an ordinary payday loan since they aren’t legally obligated to follow state laws.

If you’re considering a tribal payday loan, be prepared to face some challenges, particularly if you can’t immediately repay the loan.

Dangers of Tribal Loans

According to FTC (Federal Trade Commission), tribal loans are frequently offered by disreputable lenders.

Disputable lenders who use:

• False advertising
• Fraudulent billing practices
• Shady techniques to take advantage of borrowers

Aside from the dangers stemming from breaches of trade regulations, even when executed by the law, tribal loans put the borrower at risk for:

• Incurring late payment fees
• Losing loan collateral due to inability to repay
• Damage to credit scores
• APRs over 100% of the loan’s value
• Having a bank account locked due to activity by the lender
• Becoming trapped in a cycle of poverty
• Bankruptcy

Keep your eyes peeled for tribal lenders at all costs.

California Title Loans Quick Cash Alternatives

We know that title loans could not be the right solution for you. Thankfully, there are other available alternatives.

We understand that these alternatives may not give a near estimate of how much cash you need,

But also give it a shot and see if it helps.

Credit Card Cash Advance

Applying for a credit card cash advance could be easier.

If you already own a credit card, you might be able to get a credit card cash advance from an ATM or your bank.

But keep in mind that credit card cash advances generally charge higher interest rates than what you pay on purchases.

Oh, and you'll also have to pay a fee in advance.

Personal Loan

Personal loans are accessible at banks and credit unions, and they’re also available from online lenders.

Online lenders include investors with money to lend and old-fashioned peer-to-peer lenders.

A personal loan is not secured by collateral such as your vehicle's title.

Instead, lenders approve you based on your credits and income to repay the loan, but it does not require perfect credit.

They also offer fixed interest rates which are generally much lower than a title loan.

Pawn Shop Loans

As car title loans, pawnshop loans typically offer immediate loan funding.

But this convenience comes at a high price and should be a last resort.

The downside of these loans is that they can charge 300% to 500% APR and come with short repayment terms.

If these are the types of California loans you are looking for, why not?

Borrow Money From Friends and Family

This could be difficult for some, especially when they need financial help.

But no one else has your back other than friends and family.

Asking your friends or family for a loan could help you cover an emergency expense without paying sky-high interest rates and fees.

If you decide to ask for a loan, sit down with your family or friends and develop a repayment plan and agreement that suits both sides.

Don't ask for more money than how much you need.

Local Assistance Programs

You can seek help from local organizations.

Frequent short-term loan borrowers might have a better chance of qualifying for government assistance programs to help cover the cost of basic expenses like:

• Food
• Health care
• Child care
• Housing

Drawbacks From Car Title Loans

While such loans like car title loans may appeal to many, be mindful of these following drawbacks.

Don't let your priority of loaning more money be the only plan.

Expensive

A car title pawn is expensive because it charges a 25% interest rate per month.

Aside from that, it does not include additional fees yet, so you will most likely have to repay a lot of money.

Super-High Interest Rates and Fees

This depends entirely on where you live and which lender you work with, but you could easily pay as much interest and fees as you would with a payday loan.

Not all of this is included in California loans, but there are:

• Late fees
• Cash advance fees
• Loan application fees
• Finance charges

Make sure to shop around to get the lowest interest rate.

Read the policies before making the final decision because you can pay much higher interest and fees.

Losing Your Vehicle Permanently

We are pretty sure that you may be aware of this; when you fail to pay back the loan on time, you can lose your car.

If the lender sells your car in more unfortunate circumstances, he will get more value than if you had paid back the loan in full.

Repossession Won’t Be the End

If by any chance, you default on your loan, and the lender somehow doesn’t get enough from the sale of the car to pay off your balance, you’re still on the hook for the difference.

This rarely happens because the loan value is often lower than what the lender values the car.

But that does not take away the possibility.

Addressing the FAQs: Car Title Pawns in California Edition

Here are some of the most common questions that may still be unclear to you.

We want to make certain that you understand the entire concept before making any decisions.

How Much Money Can I Get From Car Title Loans?

The amount of money you may be able to borrow with a title loan depends on two different things:

• Your monthly income
• The equity in your vehicle

The GREATER the equity in your car and the greater your income, the MORE MONEY you’ll likely be able to borrow.

It does not necessarily imply that you need a high-paying salary but more of a stable source of income.

Can I Get a Title Loan Without the Title?

You can’t get a title loan-secured or pawn without a title or with existing liens.

To get a loan without a title, the DMV requests that you complete a form stating your title is missing and apply for a new one.

You will need to pay a small fee which will be added to your loan expenses.

Do I Need a Title Equity Loan if I Don’t Have One?

An assessment of your vehicle’s title is part of the title loans approval process.

Take into account your earnings, work history, and plans.

Lenders can provide title loans without clear title with flexibility, as well as an over-the-phone quote to help you with the refinance process.

Lenders are more likely to approve vehicles with good service history and are in good condition.

You can still borrow a small amount, but a good-condition vehicle will allow you to borrow more or negotiate lower monthly payments.

Is It Safe to Apply to Wilshire Consumer Credit for Title Loans?

We suggest that you don't apply for title loans in Wilshire Consumer Credit.

Why is that?

They do not have the best reviews and deals for you. Plus, the Wilshire Consumer Credit title loans are not BBB credited.

Can I Keep My Car While Repaying a Title Loan in California?

Yes!

There would be no confiscation needed unless you default from the loan. You can still keep and use your vehicle while making repayments.

What’s Considered Proof of Income for a Title Loan?

There are other documents you can submit other than your recent pay stub.

You can submit the following:

• Social Security statements
• Bank statements
• Workers’ compensation letter
• Tax returns
• Disability payments

Bottom Line

If you need fast cash and own a vehicle, that may be a good sign for applying for title loans. Even if these loans are expensive, they could be the right solution for your financial problem.

However, be smart, responsible, and careful when securing a title loan, especially if you are in a tight financial rut.  

Now get that loan and take care of your expenses!