If you’re lucky enough to live in California, you probably are aware of how state laws can affect everything from the food you eat every day to larger financial aspects of your life. If you have made the decision to get a car title loan in California you are probably wondering what kind of state regulations exist on it. The ability to even take out a car title varies from state to state. Fortunately for Californians who are curious about a car title loan, these types of loans are legal in the state of California.
What Exactly are Title Loans?
Simply put, title loans are secured loans where the borrower gives the lender their vehicle title (keep in mind this means a lien-free title) as collateral. The borrower still has full use of their vehicle as they pay off the loan. Generally the value of the loan is based on a few factors, these include but are not limited to:
- The value of the vehicle, which is usually determined by the Kelley Blue Book Value (condition is also a factor in figuring out value)
- Income
- Ability to repay the loan
What Will I Need for A Car Title Loan?
Generally, no matter what state you are located in there a few requirements in order for you to get a title loan this may include:
- a valid state ID
- Proof of income (pay stubs, invoices, bank statements etc.)
- issued photo ID, as mentioned above a lien-free title
- Proof of residency (utility bill, copy of lease, etc.)
- Insurance (some states require this but not all),
- Social Security Card,
- Specific pictures of your car (your lender will tell you specifics)
The convenient thing about car title loans is that lenders can make you some sort of estimate online, all they need is basic contact information1. In addition to this lenders need the information on your car. This would just be the make, model, year and mileage of your vehicle. That estimate could possibly give you a good idea of what your car is worth in your state.
Ok, So What’s the Difference in California?
There a few laws and regulations that are unique to car title loans in California, but what you’ll find is that there seems to be more freedom for lenders than restrictions.
- The minimum amount that a person has borrow is $2500.
- The lenders get to decide exactly what restrictions they want to put on the vehicles that they will accept as collateral.
- The lender has to be upfront about any charges that might occur before the borrower signs up for a loan.
- Car title loans in California must be loans where payments go towards both the principal amount and the interest amount. (Otherwise known as an amortized loan).
- Repossession laws are VERY strict towards borrowers. If you miss a payment or break rules of the contract, the lender does not have to notify you before they repossess your car (if it has gotten to that point where the lender can legally repossess the vehicle)
- The lender of the car title loan can also go onto private property to claim their collateral.
- There are no caps to the interest rates that lenders can charge, so make sure you know what rate you are getting before you sign the contract.
- In addition to this, along with state laws, there are city laws within California that you should look into before you think about a car title loan.
So if you are looking to take out a title loan in California, because of the leniency the lenders get, borrowers should thoroughly read and understand exactly what you are signing. This way you can protect yourself.
A car title loan may be the right option for you. It works by using your vehicle’s title as collateral. Specifically in the state of California the lender gets to decide on exactly what restrictions they want to put on the vehicles they will take in as collateral. In addition to this, in order for you to get a car title loan in California, your car must be valued to the lender at a minimum of $2500. Different states have different rules and regulations. If you live in California and are looking for car title loan, knowing some of these important laws is crucial. The best thing you can do as a borrower is educate yourself on some of these laws and regulations.
If you think you are ready to inquire about a title loan start here at the Max Cash® Title Loans website :https://www.maxcashtitleloans.com/how-title-loans-work/
Or give us a call at
480-405-8877 or 855-561-5626
The unique thing about Max Cash Title Loans is that we have several lenders, and this may help you get the most out of your car title loan5.