There are many types of loans, most of which utilize a type of collateral in exchange for a borrowed monetary value. In the case of a title loan, a car is used as the collateral.
To explain further, the vehicle is not completely surrendered, rather the borrower temporarily gives the lender their vehicle title and allows them to place a lien on it as security for the lender’s investment. The lender then provides the borrower with a short-term loan and holds the car title and lien until such time that the loan and any accrued interest are paid off. However, if the borrower defaults on payment to the lender, the automobile becomes forfeit and the lender may auction it off to cover their loss.
Why Would I Want a Title Loan?
Small loans are not available to individuals with poor credit history through most banks and other financial institutions which provide other credit options. Such small-scale loans are considered to be too high-risk and low-reward to be worthwhile. An advantage to title loans is that very small loans may be acquired quickly and easily.
Most financial institutions also require that borrowers have a stable source of income, in addition to obtaining collateral. Because they are based on the value of the automobile used as collateral, it is not important that borrowers who apply to have a title loan have good credit. Because of this, many borrowers with poor credit history find auto title loans to be a good option for receiving a short-term loan.
Interest rates for title loans vary from 36% to over 100% (which is high due to the risk for lenders) and payment schedules vary between states and individual lenders.
Title Loans: How?
With new technologies available, many lenders offer website applications as well as storefront services. Borrowers should bring government-issued identification and any other required forms of identity verification required by the lender at the time of application. Personal identification, such as a government-issued ID, proof of address, and proof of employment may be required, in addition to the vehicle’s title, insurance, and registration. The car used as collateral must be solely owned by the borrower with no pre-existing liens or financing.
The amount of a car title loan is based on the amount requested by the borrower and is capped at an amount which varies based on the value of the collateral. Lenders generally cap the amount of a title loan at about half of the car’s Kelley Blue Book resale value. The difference in the vehicle’s total resale value and the maximum loan amount is used by the lender to offset the debt and any expenses which may accrue in the case of a default.