Advance America is a leading cash advance provider offering payday loans, installment loans, and refund anticipation services to people in need of quick cash.
If you want to know how to apply and understand Advance America’s fee structure, start with our guide on how to apply for Advance America payday & installment loans or learn more about pricing at Advance America Fees & APR explained.
What is Advance America – Cash Fast?
Advance America is a U.S.-based financial services company that offers short-term loans and other financial products to help consumers manage urgent financial needs. With over 1,400 stores nationwide and a robust online presence, Advance America provides quick, accessible solutions for those who may not qualify for traditional loans.
Services Include:
- Payday loans
- Installment loans
- Line of credit
- Title loans
- Prepaid debit cards
- Refund anticipation loans
Advance America Cash Advance Loan Options
Payday Loans
Advance America’s payday loans are small-dollar, short-term loans designed to cover expenses between paychecks.
- Loan amount: $100 – $1,500
- Repayment: Due on your next payday (typically 14 days)
- Use for: Emergencies, medical bills, car repairs
Installment Loans
These loans are designed for longer repayment periods and larger loan amounts.
- Loan amount: Up to $5,000
- Repayment term: 3 to 24 months
- APR: Typically lower than payday loans
Refund Anticipation Loans
- Purpose: Get an advance on your tax refund
- Ideal for: Individuals expecting IRS refunds within a few weeks
Other Products
- Title loans: Vehicle-based loans
- Line of credit: Borrow only what you need, when you need it
- Prepaid debit cards: Use without a checking account
How to Apply for Advance America Cash Advance?
Whether online or in-store, applying is simple.
Requirements:
- Valid government-issued ID
- Proof of income (paystub, benefits letter)
- Active checking account
Online Application Steps:
- Visit advanceamerica.com
- Choose your state and loan type
- Complete the secure form
- Submit documentation
- Receive funds if approved
Advance America Fees & Rates
Fees vary by state and loan type. Here’s a general overview:
| Loan Type | Amount Borrowed | Typical Fee / APR | Loan Duration |
| Payday Loan | $500 | $75 (15%) | 14 days |
| Installment Loan | $1000 | $250 (25% APR) | 6 months |
| Refund Anticipation | $800 | $20 (2.5% monthly) | Until refund date |
Pros & Cons of Advance America
âś… Pros
- Fast approval process
- Multiple loan options
- Available in 30+ states
- Store locations and online access
❌ Cons
- High interest rates (especially payday loans)
- Not a long-term financial solution
- May lead to debt cycle
Alternatives to Advance America
- Credit Unions: Lower rates and flexible repayment
- Online Installment Lenders: Examples include Upstart, OppLoans
- Peer-to-Peer Lending: Platforms like LendingClub
- Salary Advance Apps: Earnin, Brigit
Advance America Cash Advance Reviews & Experiences
Customer reviews reveal a mixed picture:
Positive Feedback:
- Quick disbursement
- Helpful customer service
- Transparent process
Negative Feedback:
- High fees
- Aggressive collection practices (some locations)
Advance America FAQs
Can I get a loan with bad credit?
Yes. Advance America doesn’t require a high credit score.
How soon can I get the funds?
Same day for in-store; 1–2 business days for online.
Can I repay early?
Yes, and in some states, this reduces fees.
Is Advance America legal in all states?
No. Services depend on local regulations.
Does Advance America affect my credit?
It depends on the loan type and whether it’s reported to credit bureaus.
Are there hidden fees?
All fees must be disclosed upfront, but check your loan agreement.
Can I refinance a loan?
Some states allow this. Confirm at your location.
What happens if I default?
Late fees, collections, and credit damage may apply.