- Payday loans are legal in Tennessee under the Deferred Presentment Services Act (TCA Title 45, Chapter 17).
- The typical APR on a $400 payday loan in Tennessee was 460% (CRL, June 2023, from state regulator data).
- Borrowing $300 at the maximum fee costs 15% of the check amount.
Payday loan rules in Tennessee
| Rule | Tennessee |
|---|---|
| Maximum | $500 in total outstanding checks |
| Maximum fee | 15% of the face amount of the check |
| Loan term | Up to 31 days |
| Checks at once | No more than two per lender |
Rules checked 2026-10-04. Laws change, so confirm current limits with the Tennessee Department of Financial Institutions.
What a payday loan costs in Tennessee
The Center for Responsible Lending found the typical APR on a $400 single-payment payday loan in Tennessee was 460%, based on data from the state regulator (June 2023). Under the state’s fee limits, borrowing $300 costs 15% of the check amount. Use our cost calculator to turn any offer into an APR.
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.
Need $100–$1,000 before payday?
- One free request, many lenders
- Bad credit and benefit income considered by many lenders
- See the APR and total cost before you sign
PaydayEase is not a lender. Requests go to lenders in our network; approval, rates and terms are set by the lender. Rates & fees
How to check a lender in Tennessee
- Make sure the lender is licensed by the Tennessee Department of Financial Institutions. Many lenders can also be looked up on NMLS Consumer Access.
- Get the APR and finance charge in writing before you sign. Federal law requires them.
- Be careful with online lenders that say Tennessee law does not apply to them because they are tribal or offshore.
- File complaints with the state regulator and the CFPB.
Cheaper options in Tennessee
- Credit union payday alternative loans (PALs): $200–$2,000 at no more than 28% APR. Search for a federal credit union in Tennessee 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.
Tennessee cities
Local guides for 326 Tennessee cities and towns, with credit unions, nearby towns and the rules that apply.
- Payday loans in Nashville
- Payday loans in Memphis
- Payday loans in Knoxville
- Payday loans in Chattanooga
- Payday loans in Clarksville
- Payday loans in Murfreesboro
- Payday loans in Franklin
- Payday loans in Johnson
- Payday loans in Jackson
- Payday loans in Hendersonville
- Payday loans in Smyrna
- Payday loans in Spring Hill
- Payday loans in Kingsport
- Payday loans in Bartlett
- Payday loans in Gallatin
All 326 Tennessee 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.
Request a loanFrequently asked questions
Are payday loans legal in Tennessee?
Yes. Payday lending is legal in Tennessee under the Deferred Presentment Services Act (TCA Title 45, Chapter 17) and is regulated by the Tennessee Department of Financial Institutions.
What is the typical payday loan APR in Tennessee?
The Center for Responsible Lending reported a typical APR of 460% on a $400 payday loan in Tennessee, using state regulator data (June 2023).
Where can I complain about a payday lender in Tennessee?
Contact the Tennessee Department of Financial Institutions and file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.