- Payday loans in Big Rapids follow Michigan law (Deferred Presentment Service Transactions Act (Act 244 of 2005)).
- Borrowing $300 at the state maximum costs $42.
- The nearest larger city is Walker, about 51 miles away.
Big Rapids at a glance
| Big Rapids | |
|---|---|
| Population (2024 Census estimate) | 8,565 |
| Change since 2020 | +2.4% (growing) |
| County | Mecosta County |
| Size rank among 506 Michigan places we cover | 104th |
| Nearest larger city | Walker (about 51 miles) |
| Credit unions headquartered in town (NCUA) | None |
| Other towns within 25 miles | 12 (about 13,825 residents) |
| Typical payday APR statewide (CRL 2023) | 356% |
There is no separate Big Rapids payday law: Michigan rules apply here, and any lender serving Big Rapids residents, online or in person, needs a license from the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS).
Credit unions near Big Rapids
NCUA data (June 2026) shows no credit union headquartered in Big Rapids or Mecosta County. Many credit unions have branches in other towns or accept members online. Use the NCUA’s Credit Union Locator to find one near you.
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 Big Rapids
In short, Michigan rules that cover Big Rapids include: maximum loan: $600; maximum fee: 15% of the first $100, 14% of the second, 13% of the third, 12% of the fourth, 11% of the fifth and sixth ($76 on $600); loan term: up to 31 days. See the full Michigan payday loan rules.
What a $300 loan costs in Big Rapids
The Center for Responsible Lending put the typical APR on a $400 payday loan in Michigan at 356% (June 2023). For $300 at the state maximum, expect $42. Check any offer with our payday loan calculator.
Other help in Mecosta County before you borrow
Before a payday loan, Big Rapids residents can usually find something cheaper:
- Local assistance through 211 covering Mecosta County.
- A credit union payday alternative loan (max 28% APR). See PALs explained.
- Your bank’s small-dollar loan, if offered (compare banks).
- A cash advance app for $20–$500 (apps compared).
Towns near Big Rapids
The nearest larger city is Walker, about 51 miles away. See all 506 Michigan 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 Big Rapids?
Yes. Payday loans are legal in Big Rapids under Michigan state law, and lenders must be licensed by the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS).
How much does a payday loan cost in Big Rapids?
At Michigan’s maximum fee, borrowing $300 costs $42. The typical statewide APR was 356% in 2023.
Where is the nearest credit union to Big Rapids?
NCUA data shows no credit union headquartered in Big Rapids or its county. Use the NCUA credit union locator to find branches and online credit unions.
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)
- Michigan DIFS — Deferred presentment FAQ
- Act 244 of 2005
- Center for Responsible Lending — Red Alert Rates: APRs on $400 single-payment payday loans (June 2023)
- CDFI Fund — NCUA payday alternative loans summary