Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is a payday advance?

A payday advance is a short-term loan for when you need cash before your next payday. Customers use it to cover an unexpected expense or bridge a short cash gap without opening a revolving credit line. It can cost less than a bounced check or a late-payment charge.

How does it work?

You write a personal check for the amount you borrow plus the fee, and you receive the amount borrowed in cash at the branch. We hold your check until your next payday, for no longer than 31 days.

What do I need to apply for a payday advance?

Applying is quick and easy. To qualify you need an open checking account, a verifiable phone number and a verifiable source of income.

Helpful: your most recent pay stub and phone bill are not required, but bringing them makes the approval process faster. You can also start your request online.

How long does it take to be approved?

Usually just a few minutes. Once you hand your completed application to one of our staff members, the decision is typically made on the spot. There is no hard credit check, and the process is completely confidential. Approval is not guaranteed.

What are the charges or fees for a payday advance?

Our fees comply with California and federal law. California allows a fee of up to 15% of the face amount of your check (that is $17.65 per $100 borrowed), and the check can be for no more than $300 — up to $255 in cash for a $45 fee.

Example: if you need $200 today, you write West Coast Cash a check for $235.30, dated for your next payday, and receive $200 in cash.

The Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for this $200 advance, due in 14 days, is 460.16%. The APR is higher if the term is shorter than 14 days and lower if it is longer. Your exact fee and APR are shown in the written agreement before you sign.

How is the advance amount determined?

State law sets the maximum advance amount. Within that limit, the amount you qualify for is based on your current income.

Does a poor credit history disqualify me?

Not necessarily. West Coast Cash is here to help customers through a short-term financial need. We do not run a hard credit check; our decision is based mainly on your income and your ability to repay the advance. We wouldn’t really be helping if you received more than you are able to repay.

Can I have more than one payday advance at a time?

No. State law allows a payday advance provider to have only one advance per customer at a time.

Is the transaction confidential?

Yes. You have the right to privacy and the right to expect your personal financial information to stay private and secure. Keeping customer information safe is a priority at West Coast Cash.

What happens if I cannot repay my payday advance on the due date?

If we deposit your check and your bank returns it unpaid, you are responsible for the full amount plus a returned-check fee of up to $15. West Coast Cash collects past-due accounts in a professional and fair manner and, if necessary and appropriate, may seek civil remedies. If you know you can’t pay on time, call your branch before the due date.

How much does it cost to cash a check?

West Coast Cash charges a small percentage of the face amount of the check, and the rate does not change with the size of the check — a $400 payroll check and a $5,000 one are cashed at the same rate. Every branch posts its rates and has a rate sheet you can take with you.

I have an out-of-state check. Can you cash it for me?

In most cases, yes. We do everything we can to cash your check. Many banks won’t accept an out-of-state check, or hold the funds until it clears.

Do I receive cash today for my check?

Yes. Once your check is approved, you get your cash at the branch instead of waiting days for your money.

How can I send payments using Western Union?

The Quick Collect® service lets you send a payment directly to a participating company in the United States.

How do I know if the company got my payment?

You receive a Money Transfer Control Number (MTCN) as confirmation that the payment was sent. With the MTCN you can contact the company and confirm it was received.

How do I find out if a company accepts payments through Western Union?

Companies choose whether to take part. Contact the company directly to ask.

How much does it cost to send a Quick Collect payment?

The current Quick Collect fee is posted at every West Coast Cash branch, or call us at 866 525-CASH (2274).

What information do I need to send a Quick Collect payment?

You need the company’s Code City, Code State and your account number. The company can give you the correct Code City and State if it accepts Quick Collect® payments.