California Consumer Protections: California regulates payday loans at a maximum of $300 with a $45 fee cap. The DFPI oversees all consumer lending and enforces the California Consumer Financial Protection Law. Consumers have strong rights under the state's comprehensive lending regulations, including the ability to file complaints online with the DFPI.
Interest Rate Cap: California usury cap: 10% for personal/consumer loans (Article XV, CA Constitution); payday loans capped at $15 per $100.
Key Regulations: - Payday loans capped at $300 with maximum fee of $15 per $100 (459% APR equivalent).
- The California Consumer Financial Protection Law grants DFPI broad enforcement authority.
- Licensed finance lenders under the California Financing Law can charge rates above usury for loans under $10,000.
- AB 539 (2020) caps APR at 36% plus federal funds rate for loans $2,500-$10,000.
Federal protections: The FCRA gives you the right to dispute inaccurate credit report information for free. Credit repair companies cannot charge before performing services (Credit Repair Organizations Act).
Free resources: Get a free credit report annually at AnnualCreditReport.com.
File complaints with California Attorney General Consumer Protection.
