After two years of collaboration between lawmakers and industry leaders, including Brigit, Maryland today enacted comprehensive legislation for earned wage access (EWA) services, setting a new standard for consumer protections in financial services. Brigit, a leading financial health technology company, played a key role in shaping the legislation, which caps delivery fees, requires provider licensure, and mandates clear disclosures to ensure workers can safely access their wages before payday. 

The updated law outlines licensing requirements through the Maryland Department of Financial Regulation and sets clear parameters for how EWA providers must operate. The result is a balanced framework that protects consumers while allowing fintech solutions to evolve responsibly. 

Earned wage access is a critical service that millions of Americans rely on to make ends meet between paychecks. Since its inception, millions of Americans have used Brigit to access their hard-earned money to cover everyday purchases like groceries, gas, and unexpected bills. Brigit empowers its customers to afford everyday expenses without taking on credit card debt or relying on payday loans.

“This law is a major win for Maryland consumers and a model for the rest of the country,” said Fara Remtulla, COO of Brigit, a financial wellness company that worked closely with state leaders to help shape the bill. “While robust consumer protections have been a part of our business since day one, this law ensures every worker who relies on any EWA product can access their earned wages safely, transparently, and affordably without falling into a debt trap. Our team at Brigit is proud to have played a role in building a regulatory framework that puts people first.”

Key Consumer Protections in Maryland’s New Law

• Credit score is safe: Credit checks are not allowed, and earned wage access products are non-recourse and cannot be reported to credit bureaus.
• Capped fees: Expedited delivery fees are capped at $5 for orders under $75 or $7.50 for orders over $75.
• No-cost delivery option: Every provider must offer at least one no-cost delivery method.
• Full transparency: All fees must be disclosed upfront; any material service changes require advance notice.

The legislation, sponsored by Delegate Marlon Amprey, Delegate C.T. Wilson, and supported by several members of the Senate Finance Committee, represents years of collaborative effort between lawmakers and industry leaders.

“With ongoing changes to the regulatory structure in our country, the General Assembly made it easier and safer for Marylanders to access the funds they need in a pinch,” said Delegate Amprey. “Furthermore, by creating laws that support innovation, Maryland has demonstrated it can be a leader and destination for fintech.”

“Maryland continues to prove that it’s a place where innovation and consumer protection can go hand in hand,” said Tara Rider, Vice President of Policy and Government Relations at Brigit. “After years of working together, I’m excited to see this legislation become law and incredibly proud to have been part of the journey alongside dedicated legislators and stakeholders who care deeply about financial fairness.”