Key takeaways
- Regional Finance offers fixed-rate installment loans in Wisconsin.
- The Wisconsin Consumer Act gives borrowers important rights, including rules on notices before collection actions.
- The Department of Financial Institutions licenses lenders; DATCP handles many consumer complaints.
- Plan winter heating and car costs before they become emergencies.
How Regional Finance Loans Work in Wisconsin
A Regional Finance loan in Wisconsin is a closed-end installment loan with a fixed rate and equal monthly payments.
Company-wide amounts run from $500 to $35,000. Wisconsin law determines the final charges and terms, and your Truth in Lending disclosure lists the APR, finance charge and total of payments.
Your Rights Under the Wisconsin Consumer Act
The Wisconsin Consumer Act is one of the older state consumer credit laws in the country. It sets rules for how consumer credit is offered and collected.
- Clear disclosure of credit terms before you sign
- Required notice of default and a chance to cure before many collection actions
- Limits on certain unfair collection practices
- The right to complain to state regulators
Who Regulates Regional Finance in Wisconsin
| Role | Agency |
|---|---|
| Licenses consumer lenders | Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions |
| Consumer protection | Wisconsin DATCP, Bureau of Consumer Protection |
| Federal complaints | CFPB |
Planning for Winter Costs in Wisconsin
Wisconsin winters bring heating bills, furnace repairs and car trouble. A loan can help, but planning ahead costs less.
- Check energy assistance. The Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP) helps eligible households with heating costs.
- Ask about budget billing. Utilities often spread heating costs evenly over the year.
- Service before the freeze. A fall furnace check is cheaper than an emergency repair.
- Then compare loans. Use the loan calculator and borrow only the gap.
Finding a Regional Finance Branch in Wisconsin
Use the official locator at regionalfinance.com for current branch details. Wisconsin borrowers often search near:
Milwaukee area
Milwaukee, West Allis, Waukesha and Racine.
Southeast
Kenosha and Janesville.
Madison area
Madison and Beloit.
Fox Valley
Green Bay, Appleton and Oshkosh.
Western Wisconsin
Eau Claire and La Crosse.
Central Wisconsin
Wausau and Stevens Point.
Comparing Regional Finance With Other Wisconsin Options
Wisconsin has a deep network of credit unions, many of them community-based. If you are a member, or can join through your employer or county, compare their personal loan offer with any Regional Finance offer.
| Option | Often best for |
|---|---|
| Regional Finance installment loan | Fair credit, fixed payments, in-person branch support |
| Credit union personal loan | Members with good credit seeking lower rates |
| Utility payment plan | Spreading a large heating bill without interest |
Regional Finance Wisconsin FAQ
Does Regional Finance lend in Wisconsin?
Yes. Wisconsin is one of the 19 states where Regional Finance operates branches.
What is the Wisconsin Consumer Act?
A state law that sets rules for consumer credit, including disclosures and notice before many collection actions.
Who handles lender complaints in Wisconsin?
The Department of Financial Institutions and DATCP's Bureau of Consumer Protection, plus the CFPB.
Can I start online?
Yes, with our free loan request. Some loans are completed at a branch.
Can a Regional Finance loan help with a winter heating bill in Wisconsin?
It can, but check WHEAP energy assistance and your utility's budget billing first. They may cover part of the bill without interest, so you borrow less or not at all.
Does Wisconsin require a notice before a lender sues over a missed payment?
For many consumer credit transactions, the Wisconsin Consumer Act requires a notice of right to cure default first. Read any notice carefully and contact the lender within the stated time.
Are Wisconsin credit unions an alternative?
Yes, if you are eligible to join. Compare their APR and fees with any Regional Finance offer for the same amount and term.
More: Regional Finance overview · All states · Illinois · Indiana · Rates and fees · Requirements