Ohio state outline representing title loan availability and regulations in Ohio
State Guide

Title Loans in Ohio

Ohio significantly reformed title lending in 2018 with the Short-Term Loan Act, which caps APR at 28%. Learn about Ohio title loan laws, requirements, and how to find a legitimate lender.

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Title Loans Legal
Yes
Regulated By
Ohio
Max Loan Amount
No statutory cap
Max Interest Rate
28% APR cap (Short-Term Loan Act)
Cooling-Off Period
None
License Required
Yes (STLA license)

Title Loans in Ohio: What You Need to Know

Ohio significantly reformed title lending in 2018 with the Short-Term Loan Act, which caps APR at 28%. This makes Ohio one of the most consumer-friendly states for title loans. Borrowers benefit from these protections while still having access to title-secured lending.

How Title Loans Work in Ohio

Ohio title loans operate under the Short-Term Loan Act with a 28% APR cap. Lenders must be licensed and follow strict disclosure requirements. Your vehicle title serves as collateral while you continue driving and making payments.

Ohio Title Loan Regulations

The Ohio Department of Commerce regulates title lending under the Short-Term Loan Act. The 28% APR cap provides strong consumer protection, making Ohio's rates comparable to many traditional loans.

  • Lenders must be licensed with the Ohio Department of Commerce
  • Maximum loan amount: No statutory cap
  • Maximum interest rate: 28% APR cap (Short-Term Loan Act)
  • Cooling-off period: None

Typical Terms in Ohio

While terms vary by lender, here's what you can typically expect:

  • Loan amounts: $500 to $25,000 depending on vehicle value
  • APR1: Maximum 28% APR under STLA
  • Loan terms: 91 days to 12 months minimum
  • Loan-to-value: Typically 25% to 50% of vehicle value

Ohio Requirements

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Have a valid Ohio driver's license or ID
  • Own a vehicle with a clear Ohio title
  • Provide proof of income
  • Have proof of Ohio residency
  • Provide vehicle registration and insurance

Regulatory Authority

Ohio title loans are regulated by the Ohio Department of Commerce.

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To verify a lender is licensed, search their database or call (614) 728-8400.

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Important Information for Ohio Borrowers

Before taking out a title loan in Ohio:

  • Ohio caps title loan APR at 28% - one of the lowest in the nation
  • Lenders must be licensed under the Short-Term Loan Act
  • Minimum loan term is 91 days to prevent debt traps
  • Still ensure you can afford payments before borrowing
  • Non-payment can still result in vehicle repossession

Title Loans Available in Major Ohio Cities

Our network includes lenders serving all major cities and metropolitan areas in Ohio.

ColumbusClevelandCincinnatiToledoAkronDaytonParmaCantonYoungstownLorain+ All other Ohio cities

Tips for Ohio Title Loan Borrowers

Benefit from Protections

Ohio's 28% APR cap is excellent. Don't accept higher rates from any lender.

Verify STLA License

Lenders must have a Short-Term Loan Act license. Verify with the Department of Commerce.

Compare with Traditional Loans

With Ohio's caps, title loan rates may be similar to bank rates. Compare all options.

Report Violations

If a lender charges above 28% APR or violates the law, report them immediately.

Other State Guides

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