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Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Do most people use a payday advance service for the same reason I do?

A. Probably so. Surveys show that while Americans do a pretty good job of managing household budgets, most of us need occasional help. An increasing number of consumers choose a payday advance to cover unexpected expenses or to bridge a short-term cash crunch between paydays, without incurring revolving debt. A payday advance is a short-term financial management tool that can provide a sensible alternative to costly bounced checks, late payment charges and tarnished credit ratings. However, you should evaluate the costs and benefits of all alternatives before borrowing. Other forms of short-term credit that may be less expensive include a loan from another institution or from family or friends, a credit card cash advance, an account with overdraft protection or a salary advance.

Q. What happens if I change my mind after taking out a payday advance?

A. Advance America abides by CFSA's Best Practices and state laws regarding rescission*, which enable you to rescind the transaction at no cost within a certain time period by returning the full amount of the advance. *Contact your local Advance America location for state specific rescission policies.

Q. How often do most people use this service?

A. Since a payday advance is a short-term solution to an immediate need, it is not intended for repeated use in carrying an individual from payday to payday. When an immediate need arises, we're here to help. But a payday advance is not a long-term solution for ongoing budget management. Repeated or frequent use can create serious financial hardships. Should you need help with budgeting or debt management, call the National Foundation for Credit Counseling at 1-800-388-2227. NFCC is a national network of nonprofit Financial Care Centers™, dedicated to helping people learn how to better budget their money and use credit wisely. With one toll-free call you will be connected to the center nearest you.

Q. Is my transaction confidential?

A. We respect our customers' desire for privacy in managing their personal financial matters. The payday advance transaction is confidential, and your personal information will be treated accordingly.

Q. How is my advance amount determined?

A. State law generally regulates the maximum advance amount available. Within the allowed range, you qualify for a particular advance amount based on your current income. Sometimes you may not be able to get as much as you'd like, but a payday advance should be part of a short-term financial solution. We wouldn't really be helping if you received more than you have the ability to repay.

Select your state to view the advance amounts in your state:

Q. How are fees established?

A. The fee is competitive and in compliance with applicable state or federal law. It is our goal to offer you the best service at the most competitive fee possible.

Select your state to view the fee amounts in your state:

Q. Is my credit rating checked before I receive an advance?

A. No. Unlike many other financial institutions, Advance America does not obtain a complete credit report and does not require that you have good credit or, for that matter, any credit history at all.

Q. Getting a payday advance is such a simple and easy process, why is there so much information in the Customer Agreement?

A. The Agreement you read and sign prior to receiving a payday advance is a contract that complies with all applicable state or federal disclosure requirements. It fully outlines the terms of the payday advance transaction, including the cost of the service fee both as a dollar amount and as an annual percentage rate (APR). Although a payday advance is a short-term financial solution and not intended as a long-term source of credit, you are provided with the APR as our practice of full disclosure and compliance with federal law.

Q. Can I renew or roll over my advance by just paying the fee again on my due date?

A. Some state laws allow rollovers, while most do not. Even where rollovers are permitted, CFSA member companies limit rollovers to four or the state limit, whichever is less. Additionally, some financial institutions do not allow any rollovers, regardless of state law provisions. The limiting of rollovers, where permitted, is a consumer protection designed to ensure responsible, short-term use of the service.

Q. What happens if I don't have the funds necessary to repay the advance on my due date?

A. Just like you, we hope this doesn't happen. But if it does, Advance America is committed to collecting past due accounts in a professional, fair and lawful manner. If your check is deposited and returned by your bank due to insufficient funds, Advance America may charge a returned check charge if permitted by applicable law. (You should be aware that most financial institutions will also charge an NSF fee for a returned check and in some circumstances might revoke your checking account privileges.) You will be responsible for full payment of your account, including the returned check charge. We will contact you to collect the amount due. If necessary and appropriate, your account may be turned over to a collection agency.

Q. If my account becomes past due, will I face criminal prosecution?

A. No. In accordance with CFSA's Best Practices, our company policy is not to pursue criminal actions against a customer as a result of the customer's check being returned unpaid. If it becomes necessary and is appropriate, however, we may seek civil remedies to collect past due amounts.

Q. What can I do if I'm ever dissatisfied with the service received from Advance America?

A. We strive to provide friendly and professional customer service and receive very few customer complaints. But an occasional problem may arise. If you have a concern that is not resolved to your satisfaction by the Manager, we invite you to call our Customer Comment Line toll-free at 1-888-310-4238. We welcome the opportunity to address your concerns. In the unlikely event that your concern continues to be unresolved at that point, our Agreement states that you can take your issue to small claims court or request arbitration by a neutral third party who hears both sides of the issue and makes a binding decision.