- Payday loans are legal in Wisconsin under the Wis. Stat. § 138.14.
- The typical APR on a $400 payday loan in Wisconsin was 537% (CRL, June 2023, from state regulator data).
- Wisconsin law sets no cap on payday loan fees, so prices vary widely by lender.
Payday loan rules in Wisconsin
| Rule | Wisconsin |
|---|---|
| Maximum loan | $1,500 or 35% of your gross monthly income, whichever is less |
| Loan term | 90 days or less |
| Renewals | One renewal; 24-hour cooling-off period after repaying a renewed loan |
| Fee cap | None on the initial term |
Rules checked 2026-10-04. Laws change, so confirm current limits with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions.
What a payday loan costs in Wisconsin
The Center for Responsible Lending found the typical APR on a $400 single-payment payday loan in Wisconsin was 537%, based on data from the state regulator (June 2023). 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?
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- Bad credit and benefit income considered by many lenders
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How to check a lender in Wisconsin
- Make sure the lender is licensed by the Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin law does not apply to them because they are tribal or offshore.
- File complaints with the state regulator and the CFPB.
Cheaper options in Wisconsin
- Credit union payday alternative loans (PALs): $200–$2,000 at no more than 28% APR. Search for a federal credit union in Wisconsin 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.
Wisconsin cities
Local guides for 561 Wisconsin cities and towns, with credit unions, nearby towns and the rules that apply.
- Payday loans in Milwaukee
- Payday loans in Madison
- Payday loans in Green Bay
- Payday loans in Kenosha
- Payday loans in Racine
- Payday loans in Appleton
- Payday loans in Eau Claire
- Payday loans in Waukesha
- Payday loans in Oshkosh
- Payday loans in Janesville
- Payday loans in West Allis
- Payday loans in La Crosse
- Payday loans in Sheboygan
- Payday loans in Wauwatosa
- Payday loans in Fond du Lac
All 561 Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin?
Yes. Payday lending is legal in Wisconsin under the Wis. Stat. § 138.14 and is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions.
What is the typical payday loan APR in Wisconsin?
The Center for Responsible Lending reported a typical APR of 537% on a $400 payday loan in Wisconsin, using state regulator data (June 2023).
Where can I complain about a payday lender in Wisconsin?
Contact the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions and file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.