- Payday loans in Meridian follow Idaho law (Idaho Payday Loan Act).
- Idaho law sets no cap on payday loan fees, so prices vary widely by lender.
- 1 credit union is headquartered in Meridian; ask about small-dollar loans before borrowing.
Meridian at a glance
| Meridian | |
|---|---|
| Population (2024 Census estimate) | 139,740 |
| Change since 2020 | +16.9% (growing fast) |
| County | Ada County |
| Size rank among 163 Idaho places we cover | 2nd |
| Share of Idaho’s population | 7% |
| Nearest larger city | Boise (about 9 miles) |
| Credit unions headquartered in town (NCUA) | 1, 1 federal |
| Credit unions headquartered in Ada County | 5 |
| Other towns within 25 miles | 14 (about 546,754 residents) |
| Typical payday APR statewide (CRL 2023) | 475% |
Whether you borrow at a storefront in Boise or online from Meridian, the lender must hold a Idaho license from the Idaho Department of Finance and follow state limits.
Credit unions in Meridian
These credit unions have their main office in Meridian, according to NCUA call report data (June 2026):
- Capital Educators Federal Credit Union (federal charter — may offer payday alternative loans (PALs))
Only federal credit unions can offer payday alternative loans (PALs), capped at 28% APR; state-chartered credit unions often have their own small-loan products. Membership rules apply, and only main offices are listed here; find branches near you with the NCUA Credit Union Locator. See how PALs work.
Payday loan rules that apply in Meridian
| Rule | Idaho |
|---|---|
| Maximum loan | $1,000 or 25% of your gross monthly income, whichever is less |
| Fee cap | None set by statute |
| Renewals | Up to three consecutive renewals, then the loan must be repaid |
What a $300 loan costs in Meridian
The Center for Responsible Lending put the typical APR on a $400 payday loan in Idaho at 475% (June 2023). Idaho law sets no cap on payday loan fees, so prices vary widely by lender. Check any offer with our payday loan calculator.
Other help in Ada County before you borrow
- Credit union payday alternative loans (PALs): $200–$2,000 at no more than 28% APR. Search for a federal credit union in Meridian that offers them. See how PALs work.
- Your bank’s small-dollar loan, if it offers one. See bank small-dollar loans.
- Cash advance apps for $20–$500 based on your direct deposits. See apps compared.
- 211: call or text 211 for local help with rent, utilities and food.
Towns near Meridian
The nearest larger city is Boise, about 9 miles away. See all 163 Idaho cities.
Need cash before payday?Send one free request to our lender network. We are not a lender; offers and rates come from lenders.
Request a loanFrequently asked questions
Are payday loans legal in Meridian?
Yes. Payday loans are legal in Meridian under Idaho state law, and lenders must be licensed by the Idaho Department of Finance.
How much does a payday loan cost in Meridian?
Idaho law sets no cap on payday loan fees, so prices vary widely by lender. The typical statewide APR was 475% in 2023.
Are there credit unions in Meridian?
Yes. NCUA data lists 1 credit union with a main office in Meridian, including Capital Educators Federal Credit Union. Federal credit unions can offer payday alternative loans capped at 28% APR.
Sources
- U.S. Census Bureau — City and town population totals, Vintage 2024
- U.S. Census Bureau — 2024 Gazetteer files (place locations)
- NCUA — Credit union call report data, June 2026 (FOICU)
- Idaho Department of Finance — Payday Loan Act changes (2014)
- Center for Responsible Lending — Red Alert Rates: APRs on $400 single-payment payday loans (June 2023)
- CDFI Fund — NCUA payday alternative loans summary