Payday Loan FAQs

How does a California Payday Loan work?

A California payday loan is a short-term loan (typically, 7-31 days). It may be an ideal choice for assisting with unexpected expenses in your daily life. You may qualify for up to $255. Simply repay on or around your next payday.
What kinds of loans do you offer?

California Check Cashing Stores offers payday loans to help with short-term financial needs. Learn more about payday loans here.

When is my California Payday Loan due? 

Typically, your California payday loan is due on or around your next payday, usually within 7-31 days.

How Do I Apply for a Fast California $255 Payday Loan? 

If a California payday loan sounds like a solution, you’re probably wondering how to apply to receive money right away. You’ll need to have the following information:

  • Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number
  • Unexpired Government-issued ID
  • Open checking account and recent statement
  • Proof of income (paystub, SSI award letter, 1099, etc.)
What if I don’t want to carry around all that cash? 

No worries! After you receive your California Payday Loan, you can purchase a Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card and add your funds. You can even use your new card to make online purchases! 

Why might I need a California Payday Loan? 

There are all sorts of reasons why you may need a quick payday loan up to $255 in California. Whether it’s unexpected car trouble, surprise bills, or you just need a little cash boost until your next paycheck. 

How old do I have to be to apply for a California payday loan?

You must be at least 18 years old to apply.

Is there a difference between a payday loan, or cash advance? 

No, these terms are used interchangeably to describe short-term loans that must be repaid on or around your next payday. Learn more about payday loans here.

Can I repay my payday loan early?

Yes, you can repay your payday loan early at any time.

How does a cash advance differ from a personal loan?

A cash advance, or payday loan, is a short-term loan repaid in a single payment within 7–31 days. A personal loan, on the other hand, has a longer repayment term that may extend for weeks or months. California Check Cashing Stores specializes in small-dollar payday loans for short-term financial assistance.

How much can you borrow from California Check Cashing Stores?

You can apply to borrow up to $255 with a short-term payday loan— to cover unexpected expenses.

Can California Check Cashing Stores payday loans help me with emergency expenses?

Yes, a payday loan from California Check Cashing Stores may be able to provide the quick cash you need for emergency expenses.

What can a California payday loan be used for?

A payday loan can help cover unexpected bills, groceries, medical expenses, or other short-term financial needs. Visit our blog to learn more about how a California payday loan can support you.

What is a California payday loan?

A California payday loan provides a short-term financial solution when unexpected expenses arise. It’s a small loan designed to bridge the gap between paydays, giving you quick access to cash when needed.

Can I have more than one payday loan at a time? How often can I apply for a loan?

You can only have one outstanding payday loan at a time. For details on reapplying, visit your local California Check Cashing Store and speak with a customer service representative.

Can I apply for a payday loan while I receive disability, social security or unemployment?

Yes, you can apply for a California payday loan while receiving disability, social security or unemployment benefits. Please be sure to bring proper documentation such as your award letter. 

Can freelancers, contractors, or gig workers apply for a payday loan?

Yes, if you are a freelancer, contractor, or gig worker, you can apply for a California payday loan. Make sure to bring proof of income along with other necessary documentation.

Bill Pay FAQs

How do bill payment services work?

Visit any California Check Cashing Stores location to pay bills from thousands of national companies. Whether it’s your cable bill or your credit card, we service a ton of bill providers. 

What are bill pay services, and how do they work?

Bill pay services help you conveniently pay your bills without the need for online payment methods. At California Check Cashing Stores, we offer a reliable way to handle your payments in person.

What types of bills can I pay with bill pay services at California Check Cashing Stores?

You can pay a variety of bills, including AT&T phone bills, Pacific Gas and Electric Company bills, and many others. For more details, please contact your local California Check Cashing Stores location.

What if my biller isn’t available through the bill pay service?

Our bill pay services cover a wide range of providers, including phone, internet, and utility companies. If your biller isn’t available, we can still assist you with money orders or a Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card.

Can I pay multiple bills at once?

Yes, you can pay multiple bills at once.

Where can I pay my bills in person in California? 

Need to pay your bills in person? Visit your nearest California Check Cashing Stores location for our reliable bill payment services.

Does California Check Cashing Stores offer bilingual bill pay services?

Many of our store associates are bilingual and can assist you with all your bill payment needs.

Can I pay my bills in cash?

Yes, we accept cash payments for bill pay services.

What payment methods are acceptable for bill pay?

We accept various payment methods, including cash, prepaid debit cards, and debit cards. For more information, please contact your local California Check Cashing Stores.

Can I pay my bills after hours, on weekends or on holidays?

California Check Cashing Stores offer extended hours, including evenings, weekends, and select holidays, to meet your financial service needs. Please check your preferred location’s hours to ensure we’re available when you need us.

How do I find the nearest California Check Cashing Stores to pay my bills?

With 70 locations across California, we likely have a store near you. Find your nearest location today!

What if I don’t have enough to cover my bills?

If you're short on cash, we may be able to help with our California $255 payday loan. Learn more about payday loans.

Check Cashing FAQs

Where can I cash a check in California? 

Tired of driving up and down the coast looking for a place to cash your check? Save your gas and swing by your nearest California Check Cashing Stores location.

What types of checks can I cash with California Check Cashing Stores? 

We cash all types of checks— even those other places won’t accept.

All you need is the printed check and a government-issued photo ID.

Whether it’s your:

  • Payroll,
  • Unemployment,
  • Tax refund,
  • Or even a hand-written check
What do I need to cash a check at California Check Cashing Stores? 

You will need the printed check and a government-issued photo ID. Also, wait to sign the back of your check until you arrive. 

Green Dot® Visa® Debit Cards FAQs

What is a Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card?

A Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card is a reloadable debit card available for purchase at your local California Check Cashing Stores. Once the card is purchased and activated, you can load funds onto it and use it anywhere Visa® debit cards are accepted.

How do I load money onto a Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card?

You can load funds in several ways, including bringing cash to your local California Check Cashing Stores, setting up direct deposit, or initiating a bank transfer.

How do I activate a Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card?

Activating your card is easy. Simply follow the instructions on the card by calling the activation number, using the Green Dot® mobile app, or visiting the official Green Dot® website.

Can I use a Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card for online payments and purchases?

Yes, your Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card can be used for online purchases and payments just like any other prepaid debit card.

How can I check the balance on my Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card?

You can check your balance by calling customer service, using the mobile app, or visiting the official Green Dot® website.

Can a Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card be used anywhere?

Yes, you can use it for purchases anywhere Visa® is accepted—whether locally or while traveling. It’s a secure and convenient way to pay both online and in person.

Can I withdraw funds from a Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card?

Yes, you can withdraw cash from ATMs. Please note that ATM withdrawal fees may apply depending on the ATM network.

Can I load funds onto my Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card at California Check Cashing Stores?

Absolutely. You can conveniently load funds at your nearby California Check Cashing Stores location.

Can I purchase a Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card at my local California Check Cashing Stores?

Yes, Green Dot® Visa® Debit Cards are one of the many financial products we offer in-store.

Can I use a Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card for other services at California Check Cashing Stores?

Definitely. You can use it to pay for money orders, money transfers, or even have cash from check cashing or a payday loan loaded onto your card. We can also help you direct deposit your tax refund to your Green Dot® card.

Is there a minimum balance requirement for a Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card?

No, there is no minimum balance requirement for the Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card.

Can I use a Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card to pay my bills?

Yes, you can use it for everyday expenses, including bills. We also offer convenient bill pay services at your local California Check Cashing Stores.

Can I set up direct deposit to a Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card?

Yes, you can set up direct deposit through the Green Dot® mobile app or with help from our check cashing services.

Can I track my transaction history with my Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card?

Yes, you can view your transaction history anytime through your online account or the mobile app.

Can I link my Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card to Cash App or PayPal?

Yes, once your Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card is active and funded, you can link it to services like Cash App and PayPal.

Who can I contact for help with my Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card?

For assistance, please call the customer service number found on the back of your card.

Can I have my tax refund loaded onto my Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card?

Yes. After having your taxes prepared at California Check Cashing Stores, you can choose to have your refund direct deposited onto your Green Dot® card.

How long does it take for loaded funds to appear on my Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card?

Cash loads are typically available immediately. However, check and mobile deposits may take additional business days to process.

General FAQs

Why is “Community Choice Financial” debiting my bank account?

California Check Cashing Stores are part of the Community Choice family of brands. When you see "Community Choice Financial" debiting your bank account, it is likely because you have conducted a financial transaction at one of our California Check Cashing Stores. Community Choice Financial operates multiple financial service brands, and California Check Cashing Stores is one of them. 

If you have any further questions or concerns about specific transactions, please don't hesitate to reach out to our customer support team for assistance. We are here to help you with any inquiries you may have.

Money Order FAQs

What is a Western Union® Money Order, and how do money orders work?

A Western Union® Money Order is a secure form of payment. While it functions similarly to a check, it is a prepaid method that offers additional security. You purchase a money order for a designated amount and can then send the payment to the recipient in the manner of your choice.

Can I buy a Western Union® Money Order at any California Check Cashing Stores location?

Yes! You can purchase a money order in person at any of our convenient California Check Cashing Stores locations throughout the state. You can easily find a store near you with just a few clicks.

What payment methods are accepted for purchasing a money order at California Check Cashing Stores?

We accept multiple forms of payment for money orders, including cash, debit cards, and even a Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card, available at your local California Check Cashing Stores.

What information do I need for a money order?

To complete a money order, you will need the following recipient information:

  • Their name
  • The account number (if applicable)
  • The associated address
  • The amount you are paying
What do I need to bring to purchase a money order at California Check Cashing Stores?

To purchase a money order, please bring the following:

  • Your payment method
  • Payee information
  • A valid government-issued ID
How do I deliver a money order to the recipient?

Once purchased, a money order can be delivered in various ways, including handing it to the recipient in person or sending it through mailing services.

Is a money order safer than other payment methods, such as money transfers?

Money orders provide a secure way to send payments. However, if you are unsure about using a money order, you may want to explore money transfer services as an alternative.

Will I need my ID to purchase a money order at California Check Cashing Stores?

Yes, a valid government-issued ID is required for this transaction.

Can I purchase more than one money order at a time at California Check Cashing Stores?

Yes, you can purchase multiple money orders in a single visit. For further details, please contact your local store.

Are there limits on how many money orders I can cash at once?

For information on any potential limits regarding money order cashing, please consult your local California Check Cashing Stores location.

How long does it take to cash a money order at California Check Cashing Stores?

At California Check Cashing Stores, we specialize in fast cashing services. In most cases, you can walk out with your funds on the same day.

How long does it take for a money order to clear after being sent?

Money orders typically clear within one to three business days.

What can a money order be used for, and what are its benefits over cash payments?

Money orders can be used for various types of payments, including paying bills, purchasing services, or sending money to family and friends. They provide a secure and traceable payment option, reducing the risk of loss or unauthorized use.

Can I use a money order from California Check Cashing Stores to pay bills such as rent or utilities?

Yes, money orders can be used for bill payments, including rent and utilities. However, we recommend verifying with your service providers that they accept money orders.

What else can I use a money order to pay for?

Money orders can be used for more than just bill payments. They are also a secure way to pay for services or to send money as a gift to loved ones.

Can I cash my money order at California Check Cashing Stores?

Yes! We cash a variety of checks, including money orders.

Can I use my Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card to purchase a money order?

Yes, we accept the Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card as a payment method for money orders.

Do money orders have an expiration date?

Money orders generally do not have expiration dates. However, it is always a good idea to check the issuer’s policies for specific details.

What are the minimum and maximum amounts for a money order?

For information regarding minimum and maximum limits on money orders, please contact your local California Check Cashing Stores location.

Store Services FAQs

Can I receive money via Western Union® Money Transfer services? 

You sure can! Visit any of our California Check Cashing Stores to send or receive money from across the globe. With the help of Western Union®, we’ll help you send/receive money to friends, family, and more.  

Am I able to purchase a Western Union®Money Order at your stores? 

You sure can! Simply visit any one of our California Check Cashing Stores in person. Bring your cash, or you can apply for a quick Payday Loan to purchase a money order.

I need help preparing my taxes. Can California Check Cashing Stores help? 

Absolutely. Visit participating California Check Cashing Stores and our helpful associates can assist you with tax preparation. You may need to gather pertinent documents to help your tax filing go smoother. Call us or visit a store to learn more about tax prep help. 

Restrictions may apply. Tax services only available during tax season. Product availability varies by location. While we are not the tax preparer, we’ll help gather your information to submit to a third-party service who completes the filing.
Where can I get a Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card? 

You can purchase a debit card at any of our participating California Check Cashing Stores. You don’t even need a bank account. Instead, simply load cash onto your new Green Dot® Visa® Debit Card. Then use online or wherever VISA® cards are accepted.