If you find yourself in a situation which requires a chunk of change quickly, one option you might consider are short term loans. These loans, often called payday loans, are generally quick and easy to be qualified for. However, as with any loan they should not be applied for without careful consideration of both the positives and negatives.

The first thing to consider is what exactly a short term loan is. Unlike a loan which uses a vehicle as collateral, known as secured, payday loans are unsecured. This often results in higher interest rates over the life of the loan, as well as a shorter repayment period. The loan is often granted with the understanding that it will be repaid in full upon the borrower’s next pay day, hence the name payday loan.

Oftentimes a post dated check is required by payday loan lenders which they will cash on the day that you’ve told them you will receive your next paycheck. If you have insufficient funds in your account, the check will bounce. This may result in a report being sent from the lender to ChexSystems. ChexSystems keeps a file on all of your financial behavior. So, if you bounce checks or commit simular fraudulent activity other lending institutions will be able to see this in your history. If things do take this turn south, you should know that creditors cannot take you to criminal court for the debt.

Considering those risks, there are also many benefits to this loan type. You can often find and apply for payday loans online. These online loans are generally dispersed within twenty four hours, making for a quick and convenient way to get money when you are in a tight spot financially. While you initially might have access to only a small amount of money, through responsible and timely repayment of your loans you’ll be given access to increasingly larger sums up to the state regulated lending limit. In this way you’ll be able to access the money you need, when you need it.

Short term loans are a good option for people who have found themselves in dire straits and just need that little helping hand to make it to next week’s paycheck. As with any lending situation, educate yourself on rates, rules, and laws surrounding short term loans before entering into any contract. This protects the lender from unfit borrowers and more importantly, it protects you from an untenable situation.