As a person dealing with the same issues as you- I personally would pay the $155 if I could afford it. I realize that they are operating illegally- and that you have paid more than the pricipal- but the truth is that yes, you did take the loan- with full knowledge of what it would cost- and you agreed to pay that- regardless of knowing if they were illegal in your state. I believe this forum is excellent- and in no way mean to send mixed messages about it's benefit- but I think we should be using these tools the website and members provides to get reduced amounts to pay off- but not necessarily to get out of paying what we rightfully owe. In the end- they did lend you money- you should pay back what you can and what you feel is reasonable interest. I realize that many people on here are very black and white- i guess I am alittle more grey. We borrowed money- and while it's not fair what they charge- it's equally unfair that we not uphold our end of the deal to the best of our ability. Just my two-cents worth. Take it for what you will.
That said, if you feel that you don't owe the additional $155 or that it's unfair- then tell the company such and wait for your AG's office to do their magic.