
Advance America Cash Advance is a well-established payday loan option, but is it a legitimate choice? According to their website, they have over 1,900 locations across the US, making them one of the largest payday lenders in the country.
Advance America Cash Advance offers payday loans, check cashing, and other financial services. They claim to have a simple and straightforward application process, with no credit check required.
Their fees are clearly listed on their website, with a typical payday loan fee ranging from $13 to $30 per $100 borrowed, depending on the state. This translates to an APR of around 390% or more, which is significantly higher than traditional bank loans.
Advance America Cash Advance has received mixed reviews from customers, with some praising their fast and easy application process, while others have complained about high fees and aggressive collection tactics.
Is Advance America Legit?
Advance America has been in business for over 25 years, helping millions of customers with their financial needs. They offer various types of personal loans, including payday loans, installment loans, title loans, and lines of credit.
Advance America promises transparency and safety, and they have a secure website with a padlock icon in the address bar, indicating that the website is encrypted and secure. Their website address is advanceamerica.net.
Advance America has positive customer reviews on various platforms, including TrustPilot, where they are rated as Excellent with a 4.8/5 stars based on 77,003 reviews. However, they also have some negative reviews.
Is My Loan Application Safe?
Advance America takes the security of your loan application very seriously. They use a secure server to send and store your information, and you can verify this by looking for the padlock icon in the URL address bar.
The padlock icon is a clear indication that the website is encrypted and secure. You can also check out Advance America's Privacy Policy for more information on how they protect your data.
To ensure a secure loan application process, look for a lender that has a secure website. This means the address bar should display a padlock icon in front of the URL.
Advance America is a member of the Online Lenders Alliance (OLA), which means they follow industry best practices to provide responsible personal loan services. They also comply with state and federal laws and regulations, including the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
Here are some key things to look for in a secure loan application process:
- Secure website: Look for the padlock icon in the URL address bar.
- Clear fees and rates: Choose a lender that is upfront about their loan details.
- Regulated by state and federal laws: Make sure the lender complies with all applicable laws and regulations.
By doing your research and choosing a reputable lender like Advance America, you can feel confident that your loan application is safe and secure.
Why Can't Customers Use Banks?
Banks don't offer small-dollar, short-term loans that customers need. The average Cash Advance and Payday Loan is about $350, significantly lower than what a bank will loan.
Some banks and credit unions have started to offer alternative products, but these options are not widely available and come with restrictions and complex fee structures.
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Loan Application and Approval
Applying for a Cash Advance at Advance America is a straightforward process that can be completed in just 10-15 minutes.
To start, you can choose to apply in-store or online, where available. This gives you flexibility and convenience in getting the help you need.
The application process is quick and simple, and you can expect to get an approval decision in minutes. This means you can get money the same day, as long as you're approved.
To get approved, Advance America may evaluate your credit eligibility by receiving information from third-party data sources. This helps them determine whether you're eligible for a loan.
Here's a summary of the loan application and approval process at Advance America:
- Choose an in-store or online loan, where available.
- Fill out the quick application.
- Get an approval decision in minutes.
- Pay it back in a single payment on your loan due date.
- Loans are typically due on your next payday, but the exact timing depends on your pay schedule and state regulations.
Loan Terms and Conditions
Advance America complies with all state and federal laws and regulations. They're also members of the Online Lenders Alliance (OLA), which means they follow industry best practices.
The fees for a Cash Advance (or Payday Loan) are specific to your state or store, and can be viewed online. These fees are often lower than the alternatives, such as paying a bill late or incurring overdraft fees from banks and credit unions.
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To ensure a secure transaction, Advance America's website displays a padlock icon in the address bar, indicating that the website is encrypted and secure. This is a sign that their website prioritizes your personal and financial information.
Here are some key points to consider when evaluating the legitimacy of Advance America's Cash Advance services:
- An easy application process and knowledgeable staff
- A secure website with an encrypted connection
- Transparent fees, rates, and terms
Borrowing Limit
The borrowing limit for a Cash Advance from Advance America varies depending on your state's laws and your current income. You can borrow up to the maximum amount allowed by state law.
Your current income will also determine how much you qualify for within that range. Discover the loan amounts available in your state by visiting the Advance America website.
The maximum amount you can borrow with a Cash Advance is regulated by state law.
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Do Loans Lead to Debt?
Loans can sometimes lead to debt if not repaid on time. Advance America stores work to prevent this by making loans that match, but do not exceed, customer's needs.
The company offers an Extended Payment Plan, available under state law, which allows customers a longer time period to repay at no additional charge. This plan helps customers who are unable to pay back a loan within the arranged timeframe.
About 90 percent of Advance America customers repay their loans when due, and 95 percent are ultimately paid off. This suggests that most customers are able to manage their loan payments responsibly.
How much does it cost?
The cost of a Cash Advance can vary depending on your state or store, but it's often lower than the alternatives. You can view the specific fees for your area on the Advance America website.
The typical fee for a Cash Advance is $15 per $100 borrowed, which is a set price for a short-term transaction. This makes a Cash Advance often less expensive than bouncing a check, missing a credit card payment, or neglecting a bill.
To give you a better idea, here are some examples of how much you might pay for a Cash Advance in different states:
Keep in mind that the APR (Annual Percentage Rate) for a Cash Advance is reported as a measure of costs associated with loans that last for at least a year. However, the average loan term for a Cash Advance is only two to four weeks, making APR a less relevant measure in this case.
The Federal Truth in Lending Act (TILA) requires all financial institutions to disclose loan fees as APR, so you can expect to see this information when you apply for a Cash Advance. But remember, APR is just one factor to consider when evaluating the cost of a Cash Advance.
What if I repay a loan early?
If you repay a loan early, you may be able to avoid some fees. Advance America abides by OLA Best Practices and state laws regarding loan repayment, which means you can pay off your loan at any time.
You should contact your local Advance America store to see if there are any specific policies or requirements for early repayment.
Loan Process and Requirements
The loan process at Advance America is surprisingly straightforward. It typically takes only 10-15 minutes to complete.
To get started, you can choose between an in-store or online loan, where available. Once you've selected your preferred option, you'll need to fill out a quick application.
You'll need to provide some basic information, including personal identification, proof of income, a bank statement, and a personal check. In some states, you can also use a debit card or ACH authorization instead of a personal check.
Here's a quick rundown of what you'll need to apply in-store:
Online applications are a bit more streamlined, requiring only a valid Social Security Number, a valid and active email address, an active checking account, and a source of income.
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In-Store vs. Online Loans
You can apply for a Payday Loan in two ways: in-store or online. Applying in-store takes about 15 minutes and you'll often receive money immediately.
If you choose to apply online, you'll need to submit your application through the website. After submitting, you'll usually receive money in your bank account the same day you're approved, or by the next business day if you apply between 10:30 AM- 8PM ET Monday-Friday.
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How many loans can I have?

You can only have one Payday Loan with Advance America in most states. This is a common restriction to help prevent borrowers from accumulating debt.
It's worth noting that some states may have different rules, so it's always a good idea to check with Advance America to see what options are available in your area.
If you're looking to get a loan from Advance America, you'll want to know the process. It's relatively simple and only takes 10-15 minutes to complete.
Here's a quick rundown of the steps:
- Choose an in-store or online loan, where available.
- Fill out the quick application.
- Get an approval decision in minutes and get money the same day.
- Pay it back in a single payment on your loan due date.
- Loans are typically due on your next payday, but the exact timing depends on your pay schedule and state regulations.
To qualify for a loan, you'll need to provide some basic information, such as personal identification, proof of income, a bank statement, and a personal check. Some states may also accept a debit card or ACH authorization if you don't have a personal check.
Loan Definition
A Cash Advance is also known as a Payday Loan, and it's a short-term personal loan due in full on your next pay date.

Payday Loans are typically two to four weeks long and are due on your next pay date, making them perfect for unexpected expenses or when you need a little extra money before your next paycheck.
You could get up to $1,800 with a Payday Loan, depending on your state, so be sure to check what's available in your area.
These loans are meant to be short-term, so you won't be paying interest for too long, but it's still essential to pay them back on time to avoid any additional fees.
Loan requirements
To qualify for a loan, you'll need to provide personal identification. This can be a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport.
You'll also need proof of income, which can be a check stub, award letter, or direct deposit. This shows that you have a steady income and can afford to repay the loan.
A bank statement is also required, which shows your current account balance and any recent transactions. This helps the lender understand your financial situation and determine whether you're eligible for a loan.
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In some states, you may be able to provide a debit card or ACH authorization instead of a personal check. However, this may vary depending on your location.
To apply online, you'll need a valid Social Security Number, a valid and active email address, an active checking account, and a source of income. This information will be used to evaluate your loan application and determine whether you're eligible for a loan.
Here's a summary of the required documents for an in-store application:
- Government issued photo ID
- Proof of open and active checking account (statement)
- Most recent proof of income (check stub, award letter or direct deposit)
- Verification of SSN
- Depending on state, a check may be required
Regulation and Industry Standards
Advance America is committed to following all applicable state and federal laws and regulations, including those of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
Advance America is a member of the Online Lenders Alliance (OLA) and adheres to all industry best practices to provide responsible personal loan services. This means we follow strict policies to regulate the collection, dissemination, and use of consumer information.
Here are some key regulations that we comply with:
- State Regulations: Limit the principal amount on an advance, set maximum fees, limit a customer's ability to renew an advance, and require various disclosures.
- Federal Regulation: The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), and the Gramm-Leach Bliley Act (GLB Act) all regulate our business.
- Industry Regulations: We follow the Online Lenders Alliance (OLA) Best Practices, which include responsible lending practices and consumer protection.
Fraud Prevention
Fraud Prevention is a crucial aspect of Regulation and Industry Standards.
Implementing robust authentication and verification processes can significantly reduce the risk of identity theft and financial loss.
According to a study mentioned in the article, 75% of organizations that use multi-factor authentication experience a significant decrease in phishing attacks.
Regular security audits and penetration testing can help identify vulnerabilities and prevent data breaches.
In fact, a company that conducted regular security audits reported a 90% reduction in data breaches.
Implementing a zero-trust security model can also help prevent insider threats and data breaches.
Are Regulated?
Advance America complies with all applicable state and federal laws and regulations. This includes requirements from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
State laws typically limit the principal amount on an advance, set maximum fees, and require various disclosures. Most states also give customers the right to rescind the transaction before the end of the next business day.
Federal laws and agencies regulate our business as well. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is one of these agencies.
The Federal Truth in Lending Act (TILA) requires lenders to clearly define key terms of consumer lending agreements and disclose all associated fees and charges.
Advance America adheres to strict policies that regulate the collection, dissemination, and use of consumer information, including consumer credit information under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).
Here's a breakdown of some of the key regulations we follow:
- State Regulations: Limit principal amount, set maximum fees, require disclosures, and give customers the right to rescind the transaction.
- Federal Regulation: Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), Federal Truth in Lending Act (TILA), Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), and more.
By following these regulations, we can ensure that our customers are protected and treated fairly.
Payment and Repayment
Your Cash Advance is due in full on your next pay date, which is determined by your pay schedule. This is a short-term loan, so it's essential to plan ahead and make timely payments.
You can contact Advance America to arrange payment options if you're having difficulty paying back your Payday Loan. This can help you avoid additional fees and penalties.
A Payday Loan is a two to four week short-term loan that is due on your next pay date. This type of loan is designed to help with unexpected expenses or financial shortfalls until your next paycheck.
If you change your mind after taking out a loan, you can rescind the transaction at no cost within a certain time period by returning the full amount of the advance. You can contact your local Advance America store or visit their website for more information on rescission policies.
About 90 percent of Advance America customers repay their advances when due, and 95 percent are ultimately paid off. This shows that the company is committed to helping customers manage their debt and achieve financial stability.
Credit Score and Approval
Advance America's approval process is based on a variety of factors, not just your credit score. They consider your employment history and income, making it possible to get a Payday Loan with bad credit.
You don't have to have a good credit score to qualify for a Payday Loan. All credit levels can apply, and an established credit history is just one of many factors considered.
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Advance America uses third-party data sources to determine your eligibility for a Payday Loan, which doesn't affect your FICO credit score. This means you may still qualify for a loan even if you have bad credit.
The process of applying for a Payday Loan typically takes 10-15 minutes, and you can get the money you need on the spot. You can choose to apply in-store or online, depending on your preference.
Here's a quick rundown of the application process:
- Choose an in-store or online loan, where available.
- Fill out the quick application.
- Get an approval decision in minutes.
- Get the money same day (if approved before 10:30 AM ET).
- Pay it back in a single payment on your loan due date.
Note that the loan due date depends on your pay schedule and state regulations.
Reviews and Complaints
Advance America has a mixed bag of customer reviews, with some customers praising their services and others complaining about poor service and scams.
On TrustPilot, Advance America is rated as Excellent with a 4.8/5 stars based on 77,003 reviews. However, some customers have mentioned that the website was down for days and the customer service representatives were rude.
Advance America promises transparency and safety, and offers same-day funding for online applications processed before 10:30 AM ET (Monday-Friday). However, some customers have reported a data breach or hack, and others have criticized the company's unprofessionalism.
Some customers have even decided to pay off their loans and stop doing business with the company due to poor service. On ConsumerAffairs.com, Advance America is ranked 1.6/5 based on 242 ratings, with some reviews describing a loan scam perpetrated by a company called Cash Advance America.
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Reporting Fraudulent Action
If you suspect you're being contacted by a financial scammer claiming to represent Advance America, take action. Contact the Federal Trade Commission and file a complaint.
You can also report it to local law enforcement. This is a crucial step in bringing scammers to justice and protecting others from falling victim to their schemes.
Advance America has a pattern of ignoring customer complaints, with one reviewer stating that numerous phone numbers listed for the company go straight to voicemail. No human interaction is available.
To report fraudulent action, follow these steps:
- Contact the Federal Trade Commission and file a complaint.
- Report it to local law enforcement.
America Reviews

Advance America Reviews have been mixed, to say the least. Some customers have had positive experiences with the company, while others have reported poor service and even scams.
Advance America has been in business for over 25 years and has helped millions of customers with their financial needs. They offer various types of personal loans, including payday loans, installment loans, title loans, and lines of credit, with fast application and approval processes, and no requirement for good credit.
However, some customers have complained about the poor service provided by Advance America. Many mentioned that the website was down for days, and some claimed that there had been a data breach or hack. Customers also criticized the rude behavior of the customer service representatives and the company's unprofessionalism.
On ConsumerAffairs.com, Advance America is ranked 1.6/5 based on 242 ratings. The reviews describe a loan scam perpetrated by a company called Cash Advance America. The victims are asked to provide upfront fees, verify their identity with iTunes cards, purchase credit reports, and pay processing fees.

Some customers have reported receiving threatening emails and phone calls from individuals claiming to represent Advance America. These individuals demanded payment for services provided in 2021, which the customers had already discharged in bankruptcy.
It's worth noting that Advance America has released a public notice stating that they are taking measures to address these scams and advise customers to be vigilant and protect themselves against fraud and identity theft.
To avoid falling victim to these scams, consumers should be cautious and recognize fraudulent loan offers that require prepaid debit cards or wire transfers as processing fees or good faith deposits. They should not give out personal or financial information to suspicious callers.
Here are some red flags to watch out for:
- Automated phone systems with no human interaction
- Threatening emails or phone calls demanding payment
- Requests for upfront fees or processing fees
- Demands for personal or financial information
- Suspicious or unfamiliar company logos or websites
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Cash Advance and Advance America the same company?
No, Cash Advance and Advance America are not the same company, but they are related as Advance America operates several brands, including Cash Advance. Advance America operates over 2,500 locations under various brand names.
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