Maryland is one of the few states that prohibits payday lending in the form of short-term, high-interest loans. This means that payday lenders cannot operate in the state, and Maryland residents cannot apply for or receive payday loans from any online or storefront lenders. However, some consumers may still seek alternative ways to get cash advances, such as through tribal lenders or credit card cash advances. These options may have different laws, rates and average costs to consumers.
Tribal lenders are entities that operate on Native American reservations and claim to be exempt from state and federal laws. They may offer payday loans or other types of cash advances to Maryland residents, but they often charge very high fees and interest rates that can trap borrowers in a cycle of debt. Consumers should be aware of the risks and legal implications of borrowing from tribal lenders, and should compare other options before taking out a loan.
Credit card cash advances are another way to get quick cash, but they also come with high costs and risks. A credit card cash advance is when a consumer withdraws money from an ATM or a bank using their credit card. The amount withdrawn is added to the credit card balance and accrues interest at a higher rate than regular purchases. The consumer may also have to pay a fee for each cash advance transaction, which can range from 2% to 5% of the amount withdrawn. Credit card cash advances can affect the consumer's credit score and debt-to-income ratio, and should only be used as a last resort in emergencies.