Car Title Loans in Washington
Your Ultimate Guide to Fast Cash
Got an emergency? A little tight to pay rent and bills? Car title loans can be the solution to your immediate cash needs.
Easy title loans in Washington can be processed within the same day. So much can be done online!
But this quick fix to your emergency funding has high-interest rates and may trap you in debt if you are not diligent with your repayments.
So before stepping a foot into these lending companies and speaking to a loan agent, check out this article. We've got everything you need to know about car title loans in Washington.
What Is a Car Title Loan?
In Washington, a car title loan, also known as an auto title loan or title pawns, is a secured loan that requires your car as collateral.
These short-term cash loans are popular because of their fast application process and minimal requirements. You can apply and get your cash proceeds on the same day.
An online title loan in Washington could be the best solution to your current financial woes!
Car title loans in Washington usually have a minimum loan amount of $100 and could go up to a maximum loan amount of $5500. That is equivalent to 25% to 50% of your car's value.
The loan term is usually 15 to 30 days. Although it is called a car title loan, you may also use a motorcycle or a truck as loan collateral.
You will only need a few requirements to apply for a car title loan. However, one thing is inevitable.
You must have 100% ownership, with a title and no lien on the vehicle you will put up for as collateral. It must have some equity left for it.
Once your short-term loan is approved, the lender will ask to keep your vehicle's title in exchange for the cash loan. You may get it back once you pay off the loan.
How Do Car Title Loans Work?
Simply put, you put your car as collateral so loan companies can lend money directly to you.
You pay off the loan with interest within your agreed loan terms. Sounds easy, right? It can be to your advantage but also work against your favor.
The lender often might not even check your credit history in loan approval.
Your car's title will suffice. But your loan repayment must be made on time, so your car does not get repossessed.
It may be possible that your car will not qualify for a loan. When checking the application form online or visiting title loan locations, inquire about the terms and conditions.
They will inspect the vehicle to determine its condition and value for qualifiable loan amounts.
There are 2 types of car title loans in Washington:
- Single-payment Title Loans - These loans require you to pay back the loan amount within 30 days in lumpsum. These have an average APR of 300% and resemble a lot of payday loans.
- Installment Title Loans - These loans are more flexible, offering repayments within 3 to 6 months. They have an average APR of 259%, just like personal installment loans.
Advantages of Getting an Auto Title Loan in Washington State
There are many reasons why car title loans in Washington is people's go-to when they need immediate cash.
If you are a resident of Washington State, loan companies offer a wide range of online title loans to choose from.
Here is why you should consider an auto title loan for fast cash:
Online Title Loan Process
You don't need to burn some gas money or endure the Washington traffic. Applying for car title loans, Washington does not require on-site visits.
You can apply instantly online and benefit from same-day processing.
You can also speak to a loan agent over the phone to give you clearer details on the agreement and guide you with the process.
Some lenders can even process in less than 5 minutes. That is for as long as you have your requirements, especially the title of your car, ready for collateral.
Flexible Loan Terms
Every borrower has different reasons why they need immediate cash.
Their financial situation may be to pay off last-minute bills, make down payments, finance a house, emergency funding, pay for insurance, etc.
All lenders are responsible for their own interest rates and terms.
The good thing about title loans in Washington is that they review your needs and current situation. They tailor fit your loan plan to your capacity.
No Credit Check Required
Auto title loans stand out from other loans because even people with bad credit can still qualify.
Most loans, including small business loans, require a credit check for their borrowers. In the case of car title loans in Washington, they are not necessary but can still be made.
If you apply with bad credit, you will probably not get a good interest rate over somebody with much higher credit scores.
What You Need to Know Before Getting Title Loans in Washington
First, your vehicle must be fully-paid with no liens to qualify for title loans in Washington. It should still have value or equity and come with a title.
That is crucial because the creditor gets a hold of car titles until you've paid the amount within the duration of your loan agreement.
With that on hand, everything else should be simple.
Title loans are very convenient. But it does not mean it comes without risks too. Here are important risks you need to consider:
Car Title Loans Have Higher Interest Rates and Fees
It is common for borrowers to charge up to 25% per month of the capital amount you loaned as interest.
If you loaned $1000 payable for 30 days, you would need to repay your lender $1000 plus $250 plus other charges within a month.
That is higher than other loan options. We recommend gathering available loan plans from various loan companies and comparing which give you the best title loans.
Interest Rate
Auto title loans are far more costly than other affordable title loans and bank credits in Washington. The annual percentage rate could go up to 360% or a monthly rate of 30%!
Loan Fees
Lenders usually charge origination fees, key fees, processing fees, document fees, etc. A lien fee between $25 to $30 is included as well.
Lenders rarely charge for pre-payment penalties.
Fees and penalties will depend on the lender. Make sure to calculate everything before agreeing to a loan. The last thing we want is to drown deep in debt!
You Could Lose Your Car For Failure to Pay Loan Payments
If you fail to make a monthly payment, the lender may agree to roll over your loan but charge more interest and fees.
For example, you received a total of $500 loan proceeds. With 25% interest, you have to pay $125 on top of the capital.
If you failed to pay the $625 total at the end of a 30-day term, the lender might allow you to pay the interest and carry over the $500 the next month.
This means you will have to pay $250 in interest. The longer you default, the higher the penalties you face, making it more difficult to pay the initial money borrowed.
In worst cases, they could take away your vehicle under collateral.
Repossession
When you are caught in a debt trap and find that you cannot repay your loan, you have to face the reality that you will lose your car.
Some lenders will insist on installing a GPS on your car, so repossessing the collateral will be easy.
How to Apply for Title Loans Washington: Online Loan Process
Getting car title loans processed on the same day is easy for Washington residents! Here are the following steps:
Step 1: Fill Out an Online Application Form
A title loan application in Washington is mainly made online or via phone call. No need to do a store visit.
Step 2: Prepare Title Loan Requirements
Title loan requirements are few and easy to acquire. You will need the following:
Clear Vehicle Title
This is the most obvious and needed requirement.
The clear vehicle title must be legal under your name. The car must be fully-paid with no underlying debts.
Washington allows for cars, motorcycles, and trucks as collateral.
Vehicle
A vehicle title should always come with a vehicle. It is crucial to inspect the car to estimate its value in Washington.
When the title loan companies approve your loan, you can still use your vehicle within the duration you repay the loan.
Photos of the Vehicle
If you do not want to go on-site for an inspection, you need to send them photos of your vehicle.
Take clear photos of all four side angles for a better and faster value assessment.
Proof of Income
You don't need to show huge numbers. It won't even matter if you work full-time or part-time. What is important is you have some capacity to pay back the title loan amount.
A Government Issued ID
Identification is required for legal reasons. Your identity must be verified.
Proof of Washington State Residence
Only Washington residents can avail of a title loan in Washington. You will need to submit proof that you live in the area.
Bank Account Information
Not all lenders will require a bank account. But if they do, it is to assure you can credibly pay back the loaned money.
Proof of Valid Vehicle Insurance and Registration
For added assurance, lenders will require you to provide your vehicle's insurance and registration documents. Although, not all lenders will require it.
Step 3: Find the Nearest Loan Store
Look for the nearest title loan companies offering the best title loan deals. Choosing a loan store nearby is important since you may need to bring your car in-store for inspection.
Step 4: Collect Your Cash Loan Proceeds
You may now collect your cash after submitting all the necessary documents and successfully getting loan approval.
Step 5: Payment of Title Loans
Pay the loan within the terms you and the lender agreed upon to avoid penalties, fees, and repossession.
What Are Alternatives to Title Loans in the Washington Area?
In cases where you do not meet the requirements for a title loan, if your title loan is not approved, or if the title loan amount is still insufficient for your needs, here are alternatives we recommend:
- Apply for short-term small loans from credit unions or community-based organizations.
- Apply for Washington short-term payday loans or installment loans even with bad credit.
- Get a cash advance on your debit or credit card.
- Consider a pawnshop loan if you have any other valuables you can use for collateral.
- Try making some extra income by taking an odd job or by recycling.
- Negotiate with your employer for a cash advance.
- Negotiate with your creditor if you need a cash advance for better repayment options.
- Ask for financial help from family and friends.
Before applying for title loans or any loan, make sure to compare rates and evaluate whether or not you are capable of repaying them.
Are the Interest Rates Low or High?
The interest rates will completely depend on the lenders in Washington State. Legal creditors are also governed by The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI), so they will not be too low or too high.
Some might offer low interest to ease borrowers' procedures and gain more business.
A selected few will charge crazy high rates and fees, especially if you cannot pay back the amount in time.
We are certain there are a lot of credible and reasonable title loan locations in Washington. Make sure to seek one that will meet your needs and give you a good deal.
It is also best to stick to the agreement to avoid the debt trap.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Washington Title Loans
If you need immediate cash, we are confident you are eager to get hold of car title loans. Here are a few more questions people have been asking:
Yes, title loans are legal in Washington.
The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) regulates car title loans concerning their minimum and maximum amounts, rates, and terms.
This is for the protection of both borrower and lender alike.
This will depend on your lender. Some will conduct a circumstances-faxing to check if you are capable of paying back the loan amount. So do not expect instant approval.
Having bad credit may or may not disqualify you from applying.
Again, it will depend on the lender. But the disadvantage is that you may be charged higher than the borrowers with higher credit scores.
In general, title loans in Washington have your vehicle as security. In any case, if you default, they have your car. That's why they don't mind bad credit.
Inspection of your vehicle is necessary to estimate the loanable amount.
However, if you are applying for a title loan in Washington completely online, photos of your vehicle, among other requirements, will suffice.
The inspection is ESSENTIAL for title loan companies to confirm whether or not their client is eligible for their services.
Title loans are computed according to the equity value of your car put up for collateral. It is usually up to 50% cash, given the vehicle is in good condition.
You can get higher cash if your vehicle is in GREAT condition and if you have the capabilities of paying the lender back.
Unlike other loans that check on your financial history, getting a title loan in Washington may not require you to have a bank account. Your vehicle as collateral will suffice.
In Washington, you can ask to increase your loan amounts through refinancing.
Refinancing replaces the existing loan with a new loan with a higher amount but usually with lower rates. This way, it will be easier to manage your monthly loan repayments.
Final Thoughts: Should You Get Title Loans in Washington?
Need some cash pronto? No doubt, auto title loans will save the day. As long as you qualify and have complete requirements, it should be easy to get a loan approval almost instantly.
A word of caution, evaluate your finances before getting into a car title loan. When one defaults, they could get into serious debt troubles in many instances.
We don't want that to happen to you!
That's it! Feel free to share our article with friends and family in Washington who might find this a helpful read.