Rhode Island § 19-26-18 - Pawnbrokers

Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 19-26-18 — Pawnbrokers, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 19-26-18. Pawnbrokers

R.I. Gen. Laws § 19-26-18

§ 19-26-18. Maximum charges.

Pawnbrokers are prohibited from charging, taking, or receiving, directly or indirectly, for the use of money lent on personal property, any more than the following rates of interest: for the use of money exceeding fifty dollars ($50.00) in amount for a period not exceeding three (3) months, five percent (5%) per month; for a period of time exceeding three (3) months, two and one-half percent (2.5%) per month; for the use of money exceeding fifty dollars ($50.00) in amount for any period of time, two and one-half percent (2.5%) per month; provided, that when the interest allowed by this section would amount to less than fifty cents (50¢), a minimum charge of fifty cents (50¢) per month shall be allowed under the provisions of this chapter; and, provided, further, that no charge for the keeping or storage of any article taken in pawn or pledge by any pawnbroker, under the provisions of this chapter, other than is provided in this section shall be permitted. Any person violating the provisions of this section shall be fined not exceeding five hundred dollars ($500) and his or her license shall become void.

History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 105, § 14, as enacted by P.L. 1909, ch. 435, § 5; G.L. 1923, ch. 131, § 14; G.L. 1938, ch. 364, § 14; G.L. 1956, § 19-26-18.

Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 19-26-18

What does Rhode Island General Laws § 19-26-18 cover?

Section 19-26-18 ("Pawnbrokers") is part of the Rhode Island General Laws, the codified statutory law of Rhode Island. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Rhode Island § 19-26-18?

A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 19-26-18" (Rhode Island). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Rhode Island law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Rhode Island official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Rhode Island attorney.

How does Rhode Island § 19-26-18 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Rhode Island can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Rhode Island.