An interest rate is illegal (usurious) if it exceeds the your state's statute on what the maximum amount that can be charged by a lender on the loan. Each state has diffent laws on the subject, usually under their "Constitutional Code".In California, the maximum interest rate on a loan not brokered by a real estate broker where land is the security is prime rate then existing under certain set indexes plus 5%.The interest rates being charged you are excessive. You should contact your county's district attorney's office about what you are paying to see if they want to investigate a possible unfair trade practice.Go online and do research about the rate of interest your state allows. You might considering contacting the county bar association to see if it has a hotline to help people like you.Good luck.