What Is An Installment Loan?

29 Apr 2022
Updated on 12 Jun 2025
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hands holding bag of installment loan cash and text what is an installment loan?

If you’ve ever asked, “What is an installment loan?”, you're already on the right track to better money management. Understanding how different loan types work is an important step when you're exploring borrowing options.

An installment loan is a type of short-term personal loan that lets you borrow money and repay it over time with scheduled payments, or “installments.”

How Do Installment Loans Work?

In short, a Texas installment loan is a short-term loan that is unsecured and paid back in installments. Because of these two facts, installment loans are sometimes called “signature installment loans.” Let’s break apart this name to fully understand this loan type.

For starters, signature installment loans in Texas are unsecured, which means no form of collateral is used. Instead, your signature is your promise to pay back the loan, explaining why “signature” is the first word in this loan’s name. You essentially are making a promise to pay back the loan when it is due.

Secondly, signature installment loans are paid back in installments. Installments are pre-fixed dates on which part of the loan is due. Because these installments are predetermined, you will know when payments are due and when you’ll pay off the loan in full.

What are the Requirements for a Texas Installment Loan?

If you are wondering what the requirements are for an installment loan in Texas, you're probably wondering what you need. The requirements for an installment loan differ from place to place. Here at Texas Car Title And Payday Loan Services, Inc., you will need the following three items:

  • Your driver’s license or state-issued photo ID.
  • A checking account statement in your name.
  • Proof of income in the form of your most recent pay stub.

In other words, you will need your driver’s license, a bank account open in your name, and a form of income, usually your most recent pay stub, in order to qualify for unsecured installment loans. Something else to think about is that your credit will be checked before you can qualify.

However, you don’t need to have perfect credit though. If you are worried about your credit, you can always call us directly to learn more about how your credit will impact your chances of getting an installment loan. Just make sure you have these items and we can go over your options.

 

Representative handing installment loan cash to customer

 

Is An Installment Loan Right For You?

Whether a Texas installment loan is right for you ultimately depends on how much money you need, why you need it, and if you meet the requirements. At Texas Car Title And Payday Loan Services, Inc., you can get anywhere from $100 to $1,500 with installment loans. If you need more than $1,500, you will need to look at a different loan type.

Additionally, you might want to consider a different loan type depending on why you need a loan in the first place. Installment loans are an option for individuals who find themselves in an emergency and need money quickly. For example, installment loans can help you out if you find yourself in an emergency or need to go on unforeseen travel.

Lastly, you simply cannot apply for installment loans with us if you don’t have the three items mentioned above. If you don’t meet these requirements, look elsewhere for loans that you do qualify for. So, an installment loan is right for you if you need $1,500 or less, find yourself in an emergency situation, and meet the requirements mentioned above for this loan type.

If you need more than $1,500, or don’t meet the above criteria, consider other loan options like title loans or payday loans.

Learn more about other loan options from Texas Car Title and Payday Loans Services, Inc.

How To Apply for an Installment Loan in Texas

Applying is quick and easy:

  1. Fill out our online inquiry form.
  2. A representative will contact you to set up a meeting.
  3. Bring your documents to the appointment.
  4. Get your decision within 30 minutes.

If approved, you can receive your installment loan money the same day or next business day.

Why Installment Loans Can Help With Money Management

Using a short-term installment loan responsibly can help you manage surprise expenses without disrupting your budget. Unlike high-interest payday loans, installment loans allow you to spread payments over time, which supports better cash flow and budgeting.

Simple money management tips like tracking expenses, setting monthly budgets, and using short-term loans wisely can help you stay financially stable during tough times.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an installment loan and how does it work?

An installment loan is a type of loan that you repay over time with a set number of scheduled payments, typically in equal monthly installments. Unlike payday loans, which are due in a lump sum, installment loans give you more time to repay and often come with fixed interest rates. They're ideal for larger expenses like medical bills, car repairs, or unexpected emergencies.

How is an installment loan different from a payday loan or title loan?

Installment loans are paid back over multiple payments, making them easier to manage than payday loans, which require full repayment by your next paycheck. Title loans use your vehicle as collateral, while installment loans usually do not. Each loan type serves a different financial need—installment loans are great for those who want more predictable payments over time.

Can I get approved for an installment loan in Texas with bad credit?

Yes, you may still qualify for an installment loan in Texas even with bad credit. At Texas Car Title and Payday Loan Services, we consider more than just your credit score. Proof of income and ability to repay are also key factors. Many of our customers receive same-day approval and funding.

Start Your Installment Loan Application Today

What is an installment loan in Texas? Once again, it is an unsecured short-term loan that is paid back in installments. It may be an option for you if you need $1,500 or less and find yourself in an emergency situation. Just make sure you meet the requirements first.

If an installment loan sounds right for you, you can get started right now by filling out the Texas Car Title And Payday Loan Services, Inc. inquiry form. Fill out this form now, and a representative will get back to you shortly so we can walk you through the rest of the process.

Note: The content provided in this article is only for informational purposes, and you should contact your financial advisor about your specific financial situation.

Emma Frost

Emma Frost is a lifestyle and finance blogger with a talent for communication and a passion for financial literacy. She uses her writing talents to explore topics that help her readers gain financial stability and growth.

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