tcroyle ~ I am also in NC. So know you are not alone. Fees were killing us too and we had 6 loans.
First thing you need to do is list all that you have got loans through, how much you borrowed and how much you have paid each of them. This gives you a chance to see how much you have paid out.
Also, as stated above, contact each of the companies and let them know that you are revoking authorization to debit your account, contact your place of employement or your employer and any wage garnishment. Send a copy to the companies either via email or USPS and if you send through, make sure you get a return receipt.
You will want to contact your bank and see about stopping the ACH debits. You may need to go to the bank with copies of your letters as proof showing that you have revoked authorization for them to debit your account. These letters will also help if they continue to debit the account to get the ACH transactions reversed, if your bank will do this.
PDLs are prohibited in the state of NC. When you do your letters to these people, you want to make sure they know how much your borrowed, how much you have already paid them and you will also want to let them know the law of NC. They will try to tell you that they are not doing business in NC but they are. Be ready for all kinds of threats and such once they get your letters or have their transactions reversed. Do not let the scare you. You need to stay strong and not let them intimidate you.
Also file complaints with the Attorney General and even the BBB.
I am dealing with 3Midland right now. When they got my stuff, I was told I was going right to the collection agency. I also filed a complaint with the BBB and have been dealing with them there. They are butts, but I am staying strong, just as you need to do. None of these companies are registered to do business in the state of NC and are operating illegally here. They are not suppose to loan to anyone in NC, so you do have the law on your side.
Now if you still owe on the principal, I do feel you should at least pay that much back. I think NC has a cap of 32% or 36%, I can't remember which, on small loans. So at least pay them back as to what they would be entitled to and not a penny more. If you hav over paid them, you can request a refund, but do not hold your breath. Better not to expect one and receive one then to expect one and not receive it.
It will be ok. You have taken the first step. Read through the forum and you will find a lot of information, what these companies do to try to get you to pay, etc. Knowledge can be a powerful tool. You will also find a lot of support and encouragment here. Hang in there, it will all work out!