Advance America vs. Amscot vs. Check 'n Go

Life doesn't always wait for payday. When an unexpected expense comes up, knowing your options can make all the difference.  

Advance America, Amscot, and Check 'n Go are three well-known short-term lenders, each with their own products, locations, and services. While they share some similarities, the right choice depends on where you live, how you like to apply, and what you need beyond just a loan. 

This guide breaks down the key differences so you can find the lender that works best for your situation. 

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Advance America overview 

Advance America is a licensed and regulated lender providing convenient loan options online and in store.   

Since 1997, we've helped millions of families navigate life's financial moments. We believe borrowing money should be simple, fast, and free from judgment — with clear terms and real human support when it matters most.  

Making it work looks different for everyone. We're proud to support the communities we serve with simple, honest solutions that help people move forward. 

Find a store

With more than 760 stores across 23 states, you’ll likely find an Advance America just a short drive away. Our online and in-store availability allows you to choose how you want to apply, whether you prefer visiting a neighborhood store or completing a convenient online application. 

Services in detail  

Advance America offers several borrowing options depending on your state and situation: 

• Payday loans: Short-term loans (typically up to $500) with a fast application process, so you can cover expenses until your next paycheck. 
• Installment loans: Fixed-amount loans up to $5,000 (depending on location) with repayment terms up to 36 months. 
• Line of credit: A reusable borrowing option that lets you access funds up to your approved limit and repay over time. 
• FlexFund: A flexible line of credit you can open online and access on demand.
• Western Union: Send and receive money transfers at participating locations. 

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Why customers choose Advance America  

For customers who need a faster, more flexible option than a traditional bank loan, Advance America offers a straightforward application process with clear terms and quick turnaround. 

You might choose Advance America if you’re looking for: 

• Borrowing options that fit your life. Whatever the need, our financial solutions are built for real-life situations. 
• The choice to apply your way. Handle everything online at your own pace or visit a nearby location and work one-on-one with a team member who can walk you through your options. 
• Funding that keeps up with your timeline. When an expense can't wait, same-day funding is available in store and for online loans approved before 10:30 a.m. ET (Monday through Friday). 
• A lender with a track record. Since 1997, we've helped millions of families navigate unexpected expenses — with clear terms and support available by phone, chat, or in person. 

Amscot overview 

^* Competitor information is based on publicly available data and may change.  

Founded in 1989, Amscot has served Florida communities for decades. Headquartered in Tampa, the company operates 200+ storefront locations throughout the state and focuses exclusively on in-person financial services. 

Amscot is widely known as a one-stop shop for everyday financial needs. Beyond short-term borrowing, customers can handle check cashing, bill payments, and money transfers — all in a single visit. Because Amscot operates only in Florida, its services are built around the state's lending regulations and the needs of local communities. 

Services in detail  

Amscot customers often stop in for more than just a loan. Whether it's cashing a check, buying stamps, or paying a bill, the company makes it easy to take care of several tasks in one visit. Common services include: 

• Cash advances: Up to $500 (due on your next payday) 
• Installment loans: From $100 to $1,000 with an 85-day repayment term 
• Check cashing: Cash your paycheck or personal checks without a bank account 
• Bill payment: Pay your water, phone, electric, and other household bills 
• Money transfers: Domestic and international transfers available 

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Why customers choose Amscot  

Amscot is a practical choice for Florida residents who prefer handling multiple financial tasks face to face. Many locations operate 24/7, making it easier to visit outside traditional business hours. Customers often turn to Amscot when they need to: 

• Cash a paycheck or check without a bank account 
• Send money to family members domestically or internationally 
• Pay household bills quickly 
• Access short-term funds between paychecks 

Check n' Go overview

^* Competitor information is based on publicly available data and may change. 

Check 'n Go is a well-known lender that provides short-term borrowing options through both storefront locations and online applications. The company operates under CNG Holdings, formerly known as Axcess Financial, and serves customers in 10 states. 

Since 1994, the company has focused on short-term lending products including payday loans, installment loans, and cash advances. Check 'n Go also partners with Netspend to offer a prepaid Mastercard, which is a useful option for customers who don't have a traditional bank account. Available products vary by state. 

Services in detail  

Check 'n Go offers several products to help customers cover short-term expenses. Common options include: 

• Payday loans/cash advances: Up to $1,000 (where available) 
• Installment loans: Up to $5,000 with structured repayment schedules for up to 18 months 
• Netspend Prepaid Mastercard^®: A prepaid card option for customers who prefer to manage money without a traditional bank account 

Why customers choose Check 'n Go  

People turn to Check 'n Go for practical reasons, such as: 

• Covering an unexpected bill or emergency cost 
• Paying everyday expenses between paychecks 
• Handling short-term needs without visiting a store 
• Managing purchases or payments without a traditional bank account 

How these short-term lenders are similar 

Advance America, Amscot, and Check 'n Go differ in size, location, and availability, but their core offerings have a lot in common.

Shared features across all three lenders include: 

• Payday loans, cash advances, and installment loans  
• Streamlined applications compared to traditional bank loans 
• State-licensed and regulated lending practices 
• In-store locations where customers can speak with a team member 

Because these lenders operate within similar regulatory environments, many of their products are structured the same. 

How these loans are used  

Short-term loans are built for moments when an expense can't wait. People typically use them to handle a specific, time-sensitive cost — not as a long-term borrowing strategy. 

People often turn to short-term loans for situations like: 

• Emergency car repairs that affect their ability to get to work 
• Medical costs such as prescriptions or urgent care visits 
• Utility bills due before the next paycheck arrives 
• Household repairs like plumbing or appliance issues 

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Key differences between Advance America, Amscot, and Check 'n Go 

While these lenders share common ground, a few key differences may influence which option works best for you. 

Location availability  

Where you live will determine which lenders are even an option. 

• Advance America operates in 23 states with both storefront locations and online access 
• Amscot operates exclusively in Florida, with more than 200 locations throughout the state 
• Check 'n Go operates in multiple states and offers both in-store and online services where available 

Online vs. in-store access  

Advance America and Check 'n Go both offer online applications, giving customers the flexibility to apply from home or outside store hours.  

Amscot currently focuses on in-store services, meaning customers must visit a location to complete most transactions.  

Additional financial services  

Some lenders offer more than borrowing options, which can be convenient if you need to handle multiple tasks in one visit. 

• Amscot is known for its “Money Superstore” model, which includes check cashing, bill payment, and money transfers 
• Advance America offers additional services at many locations, including Western Union transfers and bill pay 
• Check 'n Go primarily focuses on lending products, though availability varies by state 

Competitor information is based on publicly available data and may change.
^* Availability, loan amounts, and terms vary by state.  

Things to consider before applying for a short-term loan 

Taking a few minutes to review your situation before applying can go a long way. Short-term loans are built for speed, but understanding the terms upfront helps you borrow with confidence. 

A few things worth thinking through: 

• Repayment timeline. Short-term loans typically come due within a few weeks to a few months. Make sure the schedule works with your budget before you apply. 
• Total cost of borrowing. Review the full loan terms, including fees and interest, so you know exactly what you're agreeing to.
• Location and application options. Consider whether you'd prefer to apply online or in person, and whether your preferred lender operates in your state. 
• Loan type availability. Not every lender offers the same products. Confirm he loan type you need is available where you live. 

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Choosing the right lender for your needs 

The best lender is the one that fits your situation. A few simple questions can help point you in the right direction: 

• Do you prefer applying online or visiting a store? 
• Is there a location convenient to where you live or work? 
• Do you need services beyond borrowing, like check cashing or money transfers? 
• Does the lender operate in your state? 

Your answers can help you narrow down your options and move forward with confidence. 

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Competitor information is based on publicly available data and may change.

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