Payday loans vs. overdrafting your account
Overdrafting your account can be the closest alternative to taking out a payday loan — it’s fast, you don’t need good credit and you can get the money instantly. But it could actually cost more.
Most payday loans come with a $10 to $15 fee per $100 borrowed, depending on where you live and the lender. The average overdraft fee is $30, according to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). In this case, an overdraft fee might only be cheaper if you borrow more than $200 or $300.