Arizona Title Loan Laws
While there are a few federal regulations for the title loan industry, most states set their own laws. Arizona is considered borrower-friendly, but title loans are still an expensive option.
How Title Loans Work
A title loan is a secured loan where the borrower’s car serves as collateral. If the borrower defaults, the lender can repossess the car. Unlike unsecured loans, title loans have high interest rates but no credit checks, making them accessible for those with bad credit.
Title Loan Application Process
The application process is quick, often completed in under an hour:
- The borrower fills out paperwork at the title loan office.
- The lender inspects the vehicle.
- The borrower provides the car title.
- The lender issues a loan based on the car’s value.
Some companies offer online pre-approvals, but borrowers must visit the office to finalize the loan.
Title Loan Requirements in Arizona
Arizona has minimal requirements for title loans. Borrowers need a government-issued ID and a lien-free car title. Lenders determine the loan amount based on the car’s market value, which can range from hundreds to tens of thousands of dollars.
Additional requirements may include proof of income, full coverage insurance, or personal references, depending on the lender.
Title Loan Interest Rates in Arizona
Arizona caps title loan interest rates using a sliding scale:
- Loans ≤ $500: 17% monthly interest (204% APR).
- $501–$2,500: 15% monthly interest (180% APR).
- $2,501–$5,000: 13% monthly interest (156% APR).
- Loans > $5,000: 10% monthly interest (120% APR).
While these rates are lower than in many states, they still represent a significant financial burden for borrowers.
Arizona Title Loan Contractual Requirements
Arizona requires that all title loan contracts include the names of both parties, the lender’s location, and the borrower’s address. Contracts must clearly outline interest rates, and borrowers can request detailed payment breakdowns or receipts for cash payments.
Title Loan Terms and Payments in Arizona
Title loans in Arizona typically have 30-day terms, although extensions are allowed. Borrowers can roll over their loans by paying the interest, adding to the principal and extending the term.
If a borrower defaults, the lender may charge a late fee of up to 5% of the unpaid balance after 10 days past due.
Car Repossession Laws in Arizona
When borrowers default, lenders can repossess their vehicles without prior notice, but they must obtain a court order. Vehicles are sold to recover costs, and any surplus must be returned to the borrower.
Arizona allows borrowers to negotiate repayment options after repossession but before the vehicle sale, depending on the lender’s policies.
Arizona Title Loans Compared to Other States
While Arizona offers more borrower protections than many states, title loans remain costly. The high APRs, even under regulation, often trap borrowers in cycles of debt. Nonetheless, Arizona is relatively borrower-friendly compared to states with no rate caps.