- Payday loans in Ashland follow Kentucky law (KRS 286.9 (deferred deposit transactions)).
- Borrowing $300 at the state maximum costs $45 ($15 per $100).
- 4 credit unions are headquartered in Ashland; ask about small-dollar loans before borrowing.
Ashland at a glance
| Ashland | |
|---|---|
| Population (2024 Census estimate) | 21,066 |
| Change since 2020 | -2.4% (shrinking) |
| County | Boyd County |
| Size rank among 359 Kentucky places we cover | 18th |
| Nearest larger city | Lexington (about 103 miles) |
| Credit unions headquartered in town (NCUA) | 4, 2 federal |
| Credit unions headquartered in Boyd County | 4 |
| Other towns within 25 miles | 10 (about 25,510 residents) |
| Typical payday APR statewide (CRL 2023) | 450% |
Whether you borrow at a storefront in Lexington or online from Ashland, the lender must hold a Kentucky license from the Kentucky Department of Financial Institutions and follow state limits.
Credit unions in Ashland
These credit unions have their main office in Ashland, according to NCUA call report data (June 2026):
- F.C.I. Ashland Federal Credit Union (federal charter — may offer payday alternative loans (PALs))
- Bluegrass Community Federal Credit Union (federal charter — may offer payday alternative loans (PALs))
- Ashland Credit Union (state charter)
- Members Choice Credit Union (state charter)
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 Ashland
Key Kentucky limits that apply to Ashland borrowers: maximum: $600 in total proceeds under 2026 legislation (SB 219), indexed to inflation up to $850; previously $500; maximum fee: $15 per $100; loan term: 14 to 60 days. See the full Kentucky payday loan rules.
What a $300 loan costs in Ashland
At Kentucky’s maximum fee, borrowing $300 costs $45 ($15 per $100). Statewide, the typical APR on a $400 payday loan was 450% (Center for Responsible Lending, June 2023). Check any offer with our payday loan calculator.
Other help in Boyd 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 Ashland 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 Ashland
The nearest larger city is Lexington, about 103 miles away. See all 359 Kentucky 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 Ashland?
Yes. Payday loans are legal in Ashland under Kentucky state law, and lenders must be licensed by the Kentucky Department of Financial Institutions.
How much does a payday loan cost in Ashland?
At Kentucky’s maximum fee, borrowing $300 costs $45 ($15 per $100). The typical statewide APR was 450% in 2023.
Are there credit unions in Ashland?
Yes. NCUA data lists 4 credit unions with a main office in Ashland, including F.C.I. Ashland Federal Credit Union and Bluegrass Community 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)
- KRS 286.9-100
- Kentucky Acts 2026, ch. 98 (SB 219)
- Center for Responsible Lending — Red Alert Rates: APRs on $400 single-payment payday loans (June 2023)
- CDFI Fund — NCUA payday alternative loans summary