Missouri treats unsecured loans of $500 or less as the state’s small-loan category and requires covered nonbank lenders to hold a Division of Finance license. That classification is a useful first check: a product advertised as a cash advance may fall under a different law if its structure or amount differs. Confirm the contract’s legal product type and the lender’s license before comparing offers.
For covered payday loans, Missouri describes a 14-to-31-day term and an aggregate cap of 75% for interest and fees on the initial loan and renewals. The law also permits no more than six renewals. For example, a $100 advance can carry up to $75 in interest and fees under that cap; this is not a quote of the full cost of a particular contract. Ask for the payoff amount and due date in writing.
Missouri’s Division of Finance publishes payday-lender licensing information and consumer resources. Verify the legal company name against the state listing, then keep the agreement, payment history, and any renewal notices. If the disclosed amount or renewal pattern appears inconsistent with the state rules, contact the Division of Finance’s Consumer Credit section using its official site.
Official reference: Missouri Division of Finance — Payday Lenders. Checked November 11, 2026.