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Payday loans by state

Payday Loans in Missouri: Laws, Limits and Costs

Payday loans are legal in Missouri and regulated by the Missouri Division of Finance. Here are the rules that apply, what a loan typically costs and how to check a lender before you borrow.

Key takeaways
  • Payday loans are legal in Missouri under the RSMo 408.500, 408.505 and 408.506.
  • The typical APR on a $400 payday loan in Missouri was 652% (CRL, June 2023, from state regulator data).
  • Borrowing $300 at the maximum fee costs Up to 75% of the loan over its whole life, including renewals.

Payday loan rules in Missouri

RuleMissouri
Maximum loan$500
Loan term14 to 31 days
Cost capInterest and fees capped at 75% of the initial loan, including all renewals
RenewalsNo more than six
Early repaymentRepay by the close of the lender’s next full business day and you pay no interest or fees

Rules checked 2026-10-04. Laws change, so confirm current limits with the Missouri Division of Finance.

What a payday loan costs in Missouri

The Center for Responsible Lending found the typical APR on a $400 single-payment payday loan in Missouri was 652%, based on data from the state regulator (June 2023). Under the state’s fee limits, borrowing $300 costs Up to 75% of the loan over its whole life, including renewals. Use our cost calculator to turn any offer into an APR.

Plan the repayment

Most payday loans are due in one payment on your next payday. If repaying leaves you short again, ask about an extended payment plan and avoid renewals.

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How to check a lender in Missouri

  1. Make sure the lender is licensed by the Missouri Division of Finance. Many lenders can also be looked up on NMLS Consumer Access.
  2. Get the APR and finance charge in writing before you sign. Federal law requires them.
  3. Be careful with online lenders that say Missouri law does not apply to them because they are tribal or offshore.
  4. File complaints with the state regulator and the CFPB.

Cheaper options in Missouri

  • Credit union payday alternative loans (PALs): $200–$2,000 at no more than 28% APR. Search for a federal credit union in Missouri 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.

Missouri cities

Local guides for 608 Missouri cities and towns, with credit unions, nearby towns and the rules that apply.

All 608 Missouri cities, A to Z

Need cash before payday?Send one free request to our lender network. We are not a lender; offers and rates come from lenders.

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Frequently asked questions

Are payday loans legal in Missouri?

Yes. Payday lending is legal in Missouri under the RSMo 408.500, 408.505 and 408.506 and is regulated by the Missouri Division of Finance.

What is the typical payday loan APR in Missouri?

The Center for Responsible Lending reported a typical APR of 652% on a $400 payday loan in Missouri, using state regulator data (June 2023).

Where can I complain about a payday lender in Missouri?

Contact the Missouri Division of Finance and file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

Sources

  1. Missouri Division of Finance — Payday lenders
  2. Center for Responsible Lending — Red Alert Rates: APRs on $400 single-payment payday loans (June 2023)
  3. NMLS Consumer Access — check a lender’s license
  4. CDFI Fund — NCUA payday alternative loans summary
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