Safe Harbor for Small Loans: New Rules for Credit Products up to $3,500.
This law amends the Truth in Lending Act to create a "safe harbor" for banks and credit unions offering small-dollar loans (up to $3,500). This protection shields institutions from certain penalties and lawsuits if they strictly follow new consumer protection rules. For citizens, this aims to increase the availability of regulated, safer short-term credit options with mandatory longer repayment periods and strict limits on fees.
Key points
Establishes a maximum loan value of $3,500, requiring repayment over more than 45 days and amortization across multiple payments.
Prohibits financial institutions from charging prepayment penalties, overdraft fees, or nonsufficient funds (NSF) fees related to these specific loans.
Bans "balloon payments," where one payment is more than double the amount of any other required payment.
Institutions cannot roll over the loan into a new product or issue a second loan if the consumer already has one open.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_8356
Sponsor: Rep. Kim, Young [R-CA-40]
Process start date: 2024-05-10