A cash advance, often referred to as a short-term loan, is a financial arrangement characterized by its brief duration and elevated fees, rendering it a costly method of securing funds. This form of credit, also known as a high-cost credit or high-cost loan, allows individuals to borrow sums of up to $1,500, with a repayment window typically spanning 62 days. Distinguishing itself from conventional loans, cash advances are designed for short durations, often spanning weeks, and may not necessitate a thorough credit check for qualification. Borrowers opting for this financial avenue pay a fixed fee instead of traditional interest, and lenders often align repayment schedules with the borrower's payday, streamlining the process.
Prospective borrowers seeking a cash advance are usually required to demonstrate a regular income, possess a valid bank account, and maintain a permanent address. The repayment of cash advances is often tied to the borrower's payday, and in many provinces, lenders are restricted from extending or rolling over these short-term loans.
Features
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Limited Borrowing Period. Cash advances in Canada are designed for short-term financial needs, typically spanning a few weeks. Unlike traditional loans with extended repayment periods, these advances align with the borrower's immediate cash requirements.
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Credit Check Flexibility. One feature of cash advances is the potential eligibility without a stringent credit check. Borrowers may qualify for a cash advance based on their regular income and banking details, making it accessible to individuals with varying credit histories.
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Flat Fee Structure. Instead of the conventional interest charged on loans, cash advances in Canada often employ a flat fee system. Borrowers are required to pay a fixed fee, providing clarity in terms of repayment and avoiding the complexities associated with fluctuating interest rates.
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Payday Schedule Integration. The repayment structure of cash advances is intricately linked to the borrower's payday. Lenders organize payment schedules to coincide with the borrower's income cycle, streamlining the repayment process and aligning it with the individual's cash flow.
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Pre-Authorized Debit or Post-Dated Cheque. To facilitate seamless repayments, lenders may request borrowers to authorize pre-authorized debits, allowing automatic withdrawals from their bank accounts. Alternatively, borrowers may provide post-dated cheques covering the total loan amount, including fees, ensuring a structured and timely repayment process.
Pros and cons
Pros
Cons
How to get a cash advance loan
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Research and Choose a Lender. Start by researching reputable lenders that offer cash advances in Canada. Look for reviews, testimonials, and information on their terms and conditions.
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Check Eligibility Criteria. Review the eligibility requirements of potential lenders. Common criteria include having a regular source of income, a valid bank account, and a permanent address.
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Prepare Necessary Documentation. Gather the required documentation, which may include proof of regular income, a valid ID, and details of your bank account. Some lenders may also require proof of address.
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Submit an Application. Complete the lender's application form. This can often be done online through the lender's website or in person at a physical location. Provide accurate and truthful information.
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Credit Check or Alternative Evaluation. Depending on the lender, they may conduct a credit check or use alternative methods to assess your creditworthiness. Cash advances are often available to individuals with varying credit histories.
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Agree to Terms and Conditions. Review the terms and conditions of the cash advance carefully. This includes understanding the flat fee structure, repayment schedule, and any other relevant details. Ask questions if anything is unclear.
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Authorize Repayment Method. Most lenders will require you to authorize a repayment method. This may involve setting up a pre-authorized debit, allowing the lender to automatically withdraw the loan amount and fees from your bank account on the agreed-upon dates.
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Receive Funds. Upon approval, the lender will either deposit the cash advance directly into your bank account or provide you with the funds in cash, depending on the chosen method.
Requirements
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Regular Income. Most lenders require borrowers to have a stable and regular source of income. This ensures that individuals have the means to repay the cash advance on the agreed-upon date.
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Valid Bank Account. Borrowers typically need an active bank account, as lenders often use it for depositing the cash advances or setting up automatic withdrawals for repayments.
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Permanent Address. Many lenders may require borrowers to provide proof of a permanent address. This helps establish the borrower's identity and stability.
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Age Requirement. Borrowers must meet the legal age requirement, which is usually 18 years or older, to be eligible for a cash advance.
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Identification Documents. Valid identification documents, such as a driver's license or government-issued ID, are commonly required to verify the borrower's identity.
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Credit Check (Varies). While some lenders offer cash advances without a traditional credit check, others may use alternative methods to assess creditworthiness. Borrowers with varying credit histories may still qualify.
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Authorization for Repayment. Borrowers typically need to authorize a repayment method, such as pre-authorized debits or post-dated cheques, allowing lenders to withdraw the loan amount and fees on the agreed-upon dates.
Conditions
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Flat Fee Structure. Lenders specify the flat fee that borrowers must pay instead of traditional interest rates. This fee is outlined in the terms and conditions and represents the cost of borrowing.
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Repayment Schedule. Lenders provide a repayment schedule aligned with the borrower's payday. It details when the repayment, including the flat fee, is due. Borrowers should carefully review and understand this schedule.
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Loan Amount Limits. Lenders set maximum limits on the amount a borrower can request as a cash advance. This limit is often determined based on factors such as income and the borrower's financial profile.
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Duration of Cash Advance. The terms and conditions specify the duration of the cash advance, outlining how long borrowers have until they must repay the loan in full.
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Clear Agreement Terms. The terms and conditions document includes all relevant details, such as the total amount borrowed, the flat fee, the annualized percentage rate (APR), and any other pertinent information. Borrowers should thoroughly review and understand this document before agreeing.
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Privacy and Security Measures. Lenders outline their privacy and security measures to reassure borrowers about the confidentiality of their personal and financial information.
Best places to get a cash advance loan
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iCash. iCash, a member of the Canadian Consumer Finance Association (CCFA), has been providing online payday loans since 2014, serving over 500,000 customers across Canada. This company offers flexible repayments and provides borrowers with the opportunity to earn cashback. With loan amounts ranging from $100 to $1,500 and a repayment term of 7 to 62 days, iCash caters to a wide range of financial needs. Eligibility requires a minimum monthly income of $800, and various income sources, including employment insurance, child tax, ODSP, AISH, provincial disability, CPP, OAS, and social assistance, are accepted. iCash operates in several provinces, including AB, BC, MB, NB, NS, ON, and PEI, offering a convenient and accessible online lending solution.
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GoDay. Headquartered in Toronto and established in 2012, GoDay is a BBB-accredited company with an A rating. Specializing in same-day payday loans online, GoDay provides borrowers with an instant decision upon application submission. With loan amounts ranging from $100 to $1,500 and a repayment term of up to 62 days, GoDay caters to urgent financial needs. Eligibility requires a steady source of income, and the company accepts various income sources such as CCB, disability tax credit, OAS, CPP, and private pensions. GoDay operates in multiple provinces, including AB, BC, MB, NB, NS, ON, PEI, and SK, offering a quick and efficient lending experience.
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Cash Money. Operating since 1992, Cash Money has assisted nearly 1.2 million Canadians with their short-term cash needs. This company provides payday loans online or in-store, along with additional financial products like lines of credit and installment loans. With loan amounts ranging from $100 to $1,500 and a repayment term of 5 to 40 days, Cash Money offers flexibility to borrowers. Eligibility requires a minimum monthly income of $1,000, and various income sources, including CPP, child tax credit, unemployment, and disability, are accepted. Cash Money serves several provinces, including BC, MB, NL, NS, ON, and SK, providing a comprehensive range of short-term financial solutions.
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Loan Express. In operation since 2005, Loan Express has been a reliable source for online payday loans in Canada. Accepting applications 24/7, the company ensures accessibility whenever borrowers require funds. Loan amounts range from $100 to $1,500, with a repayment term of up to 62 days. Eligibility requires a steady source of income, and various income sources, including pension, disability, child tax credit, and most other government benefits paid regularly, are accepted. Loan Express serves multiple provinces, including AB, BC, MB, NB, NL, NS, ON, SK, YK, NT, and NWT, providing a convenient and efficient platform for borrowers seeking immediate financial assistance.
Things to pay attention to
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Flat Fee Structure. Understand the flat fee structure associated with the cash advance. This fee is a critical component of the cost of borrowing and should be transparently communicated by the lender.
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Repayment Terms and Schedule. Thoroughly review the repayment terms and schedule outlined by the lender. Be aware of the specific dates on which repayments, including the flat fee, are due. Ensure that the schedule aligns with your payday and budget.
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Maximum Loan Amount. Know the maximum amount you can borrow as a cash advance. This limit is often determined by factors such as your income and financial profile. Avoid borrowing more than you can comfortably repay.
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Consequences of Non-Payment. Familiarize yourself with the potential consequences of not repaying the cash advance on time. Understand the additional fees, interest charges, and any actions the lender may take, such as reporting to credit agencies or involving collection agencies.
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Privacy and Security Measures. Ensure that the lender has robust privacy and security measures in place to safeguard your personal and financial information. A secure and reputable lending platform is crucial for protecting sensitive data.
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Alternative Options. Before committing to a cash advance, explore alternative borrowing options, such as personal loans, credit cards, or lines of credit. Compare the terms, fees, and interest rates to determine the most cost-effective solution for your needs.
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Lender's Reputation. Research the reputation of the lender. Look for reviews, testimonials, and feedback from other borrowers to gauge the reliability and trustworthiness of the lending institution.
How to repay a cash advance loan
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Review Repayment Schedule. Refer to the repayment schedule provided by the lender. This document outlines the specific dates on which repayments, including the flat fee, are due. Familiarize yourself with the schedule to avoid missed payments.
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Ensure Sufficient Funds. Before each repayment date, ensure that your bank account has sufficient funds to cover the loan amount and associated fees. Insufficient funds may result in additional charges from both the lender and your financial institution.
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Automatic Withdrawals (Pre-Authorized Debit). If you authorized automatic withdrawals (pre-authorized debits) during the loan application process, the lender will automatically deduct the agreed-upon amount from your bank account on the specified dates. Confirm that your bank account has the necessary funds on these dates.
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Post-Dated Cheques. If you provided post-dated cheques for the total loan amount, including fees, ensure that the cheques will clear on the designated dates. Maintain an accurate record of the due dates to avoid bounced cheques and associated fees.
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Monitor Your Account. Regularly monitor your bank account statements to verify that the cash advance repayments have been processed correctly. Report any discrepancies or unauthorized transactions to the lender promptly.
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Contact the Lender in Case of Issues. If you anticipate challenges in making a repayment or encounter unexpected financial difficulties, contact the lender as soon as possible. Some lenders may offer flexibility or alternative arrangements to help borrowers facing difficulties.
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Early Repayment. Check with the lender regarding their policy on early repayment. Some lenders may allow borrowers to repay the cash advance before the scheduled due date, potentially reducing the overall cost of borrowing.
Reasons for getting rejected for a cash advance loan
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Insufficient Income. Lenders often require borrowers to have a regular and verifiable source of income. If your income is below the lender's threshold or is deemed unstable, your application may be rejected.
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Poor Credit History. While some lenders offer cash advances without traditional credit checks, others may consider your credit history. A poor credit score or a history of late payments and defaults may lead to rejection.
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Outstanding Cash Advances or Loans. If you currently have outstanding cash advances or loans, some lenders may reject your application. Lenders may assess your debt-to-income ratio, and having multiple outstanding loans could be seen as a risk.
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Bankruptcy History. Individuals with a history of bankruptcy or insolvency may face challenges in obtaining a cash advance. Lenders often consider this as a significant financial risk.
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Insufficient Employment History. Lenders may require applicants to have a stable employment history. If you've recently started a new job or have a history of frequent job changes, it could impact your application.
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Inaccurate or Incomplete Information. Providing inaccurate or incomplete information on your application can lead to rejection. Ensure that all details, including income, personal information, and contact details, are accurate and up-to-date.
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Excessive Debt Levels. Lenders may assess your overall debt levels. If you already have a significant amount of outstanding debt, including credit cards and loans, it may raise concerns about your ability to manage additional debt.
Alternatives
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Credit сards. Credit cards are financial tools that allow individuals to make purchases on credit. When a person uses a credit card, they are essentially borrowing money from the card issuer up to a predetermined credit limit. Users are required to repay the borrowed amount, either in full by the due date to avoid interest charges or by making minimum monthly payments. Credit cards offer flexibility in spending, and many come with additional benefits such as rewards programs, cashback incentives, and purchase protection. However, misuse or failure to manage credit card debt responsibly can lead to high interest charges and impact an individual's credit score.
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Line of сredit. A line of credit is a flexible form of borrowing that provides individuals with access to a predetermined credit limit. Similar to a credit card, a line of credit allows borrowers to withdraw funds as needed, up to the established limit. Interest is only charged on the amount borrowed, and borrowers have the flexibility to repay and reuse the credit line. Lines of credit can be secured or unsecured, with secured lines typically requiring collateral such as property or assets. This financial tool offers versatility for managing various expenses, from home renovations to unexpected medical bills, providing an ongoing source of funds as long as the borrower stays within the approved credit limit.
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Pawnshop loan. A pawnshop loan is a form of secured short-term lending where individuals can obtain a loan by providing personal items, such as jewelry, electronics, or other valuables, as collateral. The pawnshop assesses the value of the item and offers a loan based on that appraisal. The borrower receives the loan amount and a pawn ticket, which includes terms and conditions. If the borrower repays the loan along with any associated fees within a specified period, they can reclaim their item. However, if the borrower fails to repay, the pawnshop may retain and eventually sell the collateral.
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Credit unions. Credit unions are financial cooperatives owned and operated by their members, who are also account holders. Unlike traditional banks, credit unions operate on a not-for-profit basis, aiming to provide financial services with favorable terms for their members. Members pool their funds, and the credit union uses these deposits to offer loans, mortgages, and other financial products. Credit unions often emphasize a sense of community and mutual support, and decisions are typically made with the best interests of the members in mind.
Editorial opinion
Cash advances, while providing a convenient and quick source of short-term funds, warrant careful consideration due to their associated costs and potential financial implications. From a neutral standpoint, individuals need to weigh the benefits against the drawbacks before opting for a cash advance. The accessibility and speed of obtaining funds may serve as a valuable resource in emergencies, yet the flat fee structure and often high annualized percentage rates (APR) necessitate a thorough understanding of the financial commitment involved. Responsible borrowing and a clear comprehension of the terms and conditions are crucial to mitigate the risk of accumulating debt.
Important
How to Choose a Lender
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Make sure to confirm whether the lender is licensed to operate in your province. You can verify this information with your state regulator or attorney general.
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Check if the lender is a member of a reputable association, such as the Canadian Lenders Association (CLA). Membership in such organizations may provide an extra level of reliability.
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Carefully review all the terms and conditions of your payday loan contract.
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Thoroughly examine the interest rates on payday loans and ensure that your contract includes a detailed breakdown of the total cost of the loan.
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Take advantage of your right of rescission. Usually, you can rescind the loan within three days after signing the agreement. Alternatively, there is typically a "cooling-off" period, which allows you several days to thoroughly review the contract before making an informed decision to enter into a consumer loan agreement based on the terms specified by the lender.
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Choosing a payday lender is a significant decision that demands careful consideration and a good understanding of how such organizations operate.
Methodology
At Finanso, we've carried out a comprehensive analysis of over 70 lenders, assessing them based on 35 different parameters across six key categories: accessibility of loans, customer relations, quality of service, interest rates, and transparency of conditions.
In each category, we carefully considered the most critical factors in selecting a lender. These factors include the interest rates, available loan amounts, minimum credit score, minimum income, application fees, and the speed at which funds are transferred.
At Finanso, we highly value our users, which is why we also focus on the quality of customer service, user reviews, and additional features that can aid our users in making a well-informed decision.
Our ultimate goal is to provide insightful recommendations and expert advice to assist you in selecting a lender that best caters to your specific needs.