Complaints

This profile includes complaints for Community Choice Financial, Inc.'s headquarters and its corporate-owned locations. To view all corporate locations, see Find Local Branches.

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• 

  Community Choice Financial, Inc.

  5165 Emerald Pkwy Ste 100 Dublin, OH 43017-1063

  
• 

  Community Choice Financial, Inc.

  1255 Parsons Ave Columbus, OH 43206-3639

  
• 

  Community Choice Financial, Inc.

  1624 E Dublin Granville Rd Columbus, OH 43229-3503

  
• 

  Community Choice Financial, Inc.

  7113 E Main St Reynoldsburg, OH 43068-2011

  
• 

  Community Choice Financial, Inc.

  134 McMahan Blvd Marion, OH 43302-5654

  

The complaint text that is displayed might not represent all complaints filed with BBB. Some consumers may elect to not publish the details of their complaints, some complaints may not meet BBB's standards for publication, or BBB may display a portion of complaints when a high volume is received for a particular business.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:03/20/2023

  Type:Billing Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  This company has placed a collection on my credit report for $658 labeled as a loan by phone on January 9, 2023. I have not taken a loan nor have I had any dealings with this company ever.

  

  Business Response

  Date: 03/24/2023

  Thank you for the opportunity to respond to the complaint filed by ***** ****** (Complainant). Loan By Phone (LBP), a member of the Community Choice Financial® family of brands, appreciates the role of the Better Business Bureau in resolving consumer concerns. We are happy to provide this response.
  
  To summarize, the Complainant states LBP placed a collection on their credit report for $658.00 labeled as a Loan By Phone on January 9, 2023. They claim they have not taken a loan nor have had any dealings with CIC.  They are requesting a correction to their credit report and for no further contact by the business.
  
  Based on the Complainant’s information provided within the BBB Complaint, we are unable to identify a customer account with LBP without obtaining further identifying information. If the Complainant believes they have an account with LBP, they are encouraged to contact LBP directly at ###-###-#### to provide further identification so that any existing account may be located, and appropriate investigation can be conducted.
  
  We hope that we have fully addressed the complaint. Should the complainant or the Better Business Bureaurequire further explanation, we may be reached at *****************************
  
  Sincerely,
  
  *** – Consumer Complaints
  ** *** *** ********** ** ***** 

• Initial Complaint

  Date:03/19/2023

  Type:Customer Service Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  The Company operating as Speedy Cash pulled my Experian credit report without my knowledge or a completed credit application. This company is unscrupulous in this regard. This adversely affected my credit rating and cause material damage.

  

  Business Response

  Date: 03/23/2023

  March 23, 2023
  
  Better Business Bureau
  1169 Dublin Road
  Columbus, OH 43215
  
  RE: BBB Complaint ID 19620221
  
  BBB Dispute Resolution Team:
  
  Thank you for the opportunity to respond to the complaint filed by ********* ****** (Complainant). Speedy Cash, a member of Community Choice Financial® family of brands, appreciates the role of the Better Business Bureau in resolving consumer concerns. We are happy to provide this response.
  
  To summarize, the Complainant states the Company operating as Speedy Cash pulled their Experian credit report without their knowledge or a completed credit application. They claim this company is unscrupulous in this regard. They also claim this adversely affected their credit rating and caused material damage.
  
  A review of Speedy Cash’s records shows, on March 18, 2023, the Complainant applied for a loan with Speedy Cash online at www.speedycash.com. As a part of the credit application submitted, the Complainant agreed to the application terms outlined in the Consumer Credit Inquiry and Reporting Agreement which states, “By submitting below, I authorize Speedy Cash and their lawfully designated agents, contractors, employees, successors, assigns, and affiliates (collectively, the “Authorized Parties”) to contact any person or companies, including credit reporting agencies, to verify information the Authorized Parties may require now, and in the future, while attempting or providing credit services for or to me or collecting any debt due. I also authorize and consent to the Authorized Parties using such information for other purposes, including obtaining applicable criteria bearing on my credit worthiness, to administer any loan or account I may obtain, for other credit-related purposes connected with any loan or account I may obtain or maintain, to offer other products and services, and for any other uses and purposes permitted by law.” By submitting the credit application, the Complainant provided Speedy Cash with a permissible purpose and authorization to access their credit history.  
  
  Speedy Cash has investigated the complaint in accordance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act and it has been determined that there is no evidence to conclude that the credit inquiry is inaccurate.        
  
  The Complainant may visit **************** in order to learn more about credit inquires and how the inquiries may impact credit scores. Additionally, the Complainant may contact Speedy Cash directly at ###-###-#### should they have any further questions or concerns.
  
  We hope that we have fully addressed the complaint. Should the Complainant or the Better Business Bureau require further explanation, we may be reached at [email protected].
  
  
  Sincerely,
  
  BSG – Consumer Complaints
  PO Box 550
  Cleveland, TN 37364 
  
  Tell us why here...

  Customer Answer

  Date: 03/24/2023

  [If you do not say why you are rejecting the company's response, BBB must close your complaint.] 
  
  Complaint: 19620221
  
  I am rejecting this response because:  I did not apply for a loan or complete a loan application.
  
  Regards,
  
  ********* ******

• Initial Complaint

  Date:03/17/2023

  Type:Billing Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I had issues with this company as they were taking payments out of an account that was not affiliated with the current loan. I finally paid everything off on full from correct account- however, the company was processing a payment in incorrect account. Rapid Cash was able to recover additional money over the agreed upon amount. They did not wish to stop the payment or refund the funds even a month later. They have refused to comply with giving back the money although they can see they owe me the money on their end. I am unsure how loudly I have to complain or how many calls I must make to get my refund. They have stated they do not have to "Assist Me" or return the funds. This company should be investigated for fraud. They knowingly owe customers- but continue to hold the funds in Raid Cash account. They also will not cover the cost of bouncing the loan amount in the incorrect account, nor are they willing to pay any interest on the moneys they owe to past customers. I am requesting an investigation into this fraud practice.

  

  Business Response

  Date: 03/24/2023

  *****************
  
  Thank you for the opportunity to respond to the complaint filed by ***** ******** (Complainant). Advance Group Inc. Dba Rapid Cash, a member of Community Choice Financial® family of brands, appreciates the role of the Better Business Bureau in resolving consumer concerns. We are happy to provide this response.
  
  To summarize, the Complainant states they had issues with this Rapid Cash taking payments out of an account that was not affiliated with the current loan. They claim they finally paid everything off in full for the correct account; however, Rapid Cash processed a payment in the incorrect account. They also claim Rapid Cash was able to recover additional money over the agreed upon amount. They stated Rapid Cash did not wish to stop the payment or refund the funds even a month later. They also claim Rapid Cash stated they do not have to "assist me" or return the funds. They claim Rapid Cash knowingly owe customers but continue to hold the funds in Rapid Cash account. They also claim Rapid Cash will not cover the cost of bouncing the loan amount in the incorrect account, nor are they willing to pay any interest on the money they owe to past customers. They are requesting Rapid Cash be investigated for fraud.
  
  As a brief background, Rapid Cash’s records reflect that on December 19, 2022, the Complainant obtained an installment loan with Rapid Cash in the principal amount financed of $3,834.00 at a storefront in Las Vegas, Nevada. The loan contracted was to be repaid in five (5) bi-weekly payments of $1,032.64 due on December 30, 2022 and a final payment in the amount of $1,032.63 due on March 10, 2023.
  
  On January 4, 2023, when the Complainant’s scheduled payment returned unpaid due to insufficient funds, the account went into default status and collection activities commenced as permitted by law. On January 25, 2023, the Complainant was entered into a payment plan; however, on January 28, 2023, payment was not received, thus breaking the plan. On February 1, 2023, February 6, 2023, February 10, 2023, and February 14, 2023, the Complainant made payments in the amounts of $1,032.64, $1,045.14, $1,045.14, and $1,718.52, respectively.
  
  On February 24, 2023, a scheduled payment in the amount of $346.76 was initiated via Ach in bank account ending in **** as authorized by the Complainant on the signed Optional Loan Payment Authorization (OPLA) which states:
  
  Schedule Payments on the Loan: We may initiate electronic payments on the above Payment Card and/or the above Bank Account to seek scheduled payments on the Loan (“Scheduled Payments”) on the dates set forth in the Note’s payment schedule, or as reflected in our periodic billing statement (if applicable(, or in some cases at later times –for example, the day after a holiday or weekend when the payment would otherwise be due, the day after a courtesy payment deferral expires or the day we resolve an unforeseen technological issue such as the unavailability of our ACH processor.
  
  Payments You Subsequently Request: Instead of or in addition to any payments described above, you authorize us to honor any subsequent phone, text, online, or email instructions from you to initiate one or more electronic payments –for example, in connection with any modified payment plan we agree upon with you.
  
  
  On February 28, 2023, the Complainant advised Rapid Cash that the ACH presented for payment will not clear. Alternatively, the Complainant offered to pay $953.59 if Rapid Cash would waive the remaining outstanding balance. As a courtesy, Rapid Cash accepted the Complainant’s offer and waived the remaining balance of $246.14, bringing the account to a zero balance. On March 1, 2023, the Complainant’s ACH returned paid causing the account to be overpaid. On March 22, 2023, the overpayment was refunded to the Complainant’s bank account.
  
  We submit there was no unauthorized payment taken from the Complainant’s account as the bank account used to initiate the scheduled payment is listed in the Complainant’s signed OPLA. Further, at no time did the Complainant revoke their payment authorization. While we deny any wrongdoing, in the interest of goodwill, we will refund any overdraft fees or bounce fees associated with the overpayment on the account. We advise the Complainant to visit a storefront or contact our Customer Service Department at ###-###-#### and provide a copy of their bank statement so that Rapid Cash may issue a refund for the incurred fees.  
  
  We hope that we have fully addressed the complaint. Should the Complainant or the Better Business Bureau require further explanation, we may be reached at *****************************
  
  Sincerely,
  
  *** – Consumer Complaints
  ** *** *** ********** ** *****
  

• Initial Complaint

  Date:03/15/2023

  Type:Billing Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  Accountability: persecution Hiding/stealing funds/financials. Never gave receipt for receiving federal reserve notes/ or updated information that account was bankruptcy discharge granted on January 10, 2023. Moverover, continuing negatively expressing that I cannot get a loan.

  

  Business Response

  Date: 03/21/2023

  March 21, 2023
  
  Better Business Bureau
  1169 Dublin Road
  Columbus, OH 43215
  
  RE: BBB Complaint ID 19551041
  
  BBB Dispute Resolution Team:
  
  Thank you for the opportunity to respond to the complaint filed by ****** **** (Complainant) Buckeye Credit Solutions, LLC Dba Checksmart, a member of the Community Choice Financial® family of brands, appreciates the role of the Better Business Bureau in resolving consumer concerns. We are happy to provide this response.
  
  To summarize, the Complainant states Checksmart never gave receipt for federal reserve notes or updated information that the account was bankruptcy discharged, granted on January 10, 2023. The Complainant claims Checksmart is hiding or stealing funds. They are also claiming they cannot get a loan. They are requesting to be contacted by the business.
  
  A review of our records revealed, on June 4, 2018, the Complainant obtained a loan with NCP Finance Ohio, LLC in the principal amount financed of $100.00 at storefront in Cincinnati, Ohio. The loan contracted was to be repaid in one payment in the amount of $155.04 due on July 30, 2018. Buckeye Credit Solutions, LLC dba Checksmart is a credit services organization (“CSO”) registered under Ohio Law. Checksmart assists consumers in obtaining loans from willing, unaffiliated lenders and services the resulting loans. Checksmart does not operate in Ohio as a lender. Checksmart services the loan and charges CSO fees as permitted by Ohio state law.
  
  On June 4, 2019, due to nonpayment, the account was sold to Plaza Services. This may or may not be the entity reporting the account to the credit bureaus. Checksmart has not attempted communication with the Complainant regarding this account since its date of sale and reassignment. As Checksmart is no longer the owner of record, we suggest the Complainant contact Plaza Services directly at ###-###-#### with any further questions or comments regarding this account.
  
  On December 19, 2021, the Complainant obtained a line of credit with IVY Finance with a cash advance amount of $300.00 at a storefront in Norwood, Ohio. On January 4, 2023, the Complainant paid off the account in full. It is important to note that while bankruptcy discharges a particular debt, bankruptcy laws do not prohibit a consumer from voluntarily paying debts after the discharge. We have mailed the Complainant’s receipt of loan pay off to the address provided in the complaint indicating that the loan has been paid off in full.
  
  Regarding the Complainant’s denied application, our records do not show any application submitted by the Complainant. If the Complainant’s credit application was submitted through a third-party lender, we urge the Complainant to contact them directly regarding their denied application.
  
  We hope that we have fully addressed the complaint. Should the complainant or the Better Business Bureau require further explanation, we may be reached at [email protected].
  
  Sincerely,
  
  BSG – Consumer Complaints
  PO Box 550
  Cleveland, TN 37364 
  

  Customer Answer

  Date: 03/21/2023

  [If you do not say why you are rejecting the company's response, BBB must close your complaint.] 
  
  Complaint: 19598678
  
  I am rejecting this response because: For disorganized and not able to produce receipts, employees are mean-spirited by creating work-home conflict upon my children, moreover, poverty hardships/suffering.
  
  Regards,
  
  ****** ****

• Initial Complaint

  Date:03/10/2023

  Type:Customer Service Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  Hello, Please advised that Speedy cash mishandled a fraudulent account that was transferred to them from ** *****. Please see FTC for “** *****” filed back in March 2021. I spoke with supervisor ******. We spoke briefly on 3/9/2023 regarding a fraudulent account that was passed over to Speedy cash from ** *****. This collection is now in Legal Status by mistake. He advised that he was able to see the fraudulent notes that was placed on my account back In march 2021. This terrible error led to an illegal judgment being placed upon me and this law firm garnished OVER 4 thousand dollars from my account. I look forward to hearing back from your team with resolutions. I need a letter head from Speedy cash advising that this judgment was an error because the fraudulent documents (FTC REPORT) was mailed all the way back in March of 2021. I’m not sure why this fraudulent account was mishandled but it has impacted my checking account severally. I have also attached messages from “***” at Law group , the firm that illegally garnished ones 4K Speedy cash supervisor: *********** ****

  

  Business Response

  Date: 03/28/2023

  ***********
  
  Thank you for the opportunity to respond to the complaint filed by ***** **********
  (“Complainant”). SCIL Texas LLC dba Speedy Cash (“Speedy Cash”), a member of Community Choice Financial® family of brands, appreciates the role of the Better Business Bureau in resolving consumer concerns. We are happy to provide this response.
  
  Please note that Community Choice Financial recently completed its acquisition of the Speedy Cash, Rapid Cash and Avio brands. Although the transaction in question occurred prior to the closing of the acquisition, we will, of course, work to resolve any concerns raised by the complaint.
  
  To summarize, the Complainant states Speedy Cash mishandled a fraudulent account that was transferred to it from ** ***** ******** ********* **** (“** *****”), an unaffiliated third-party debt collection agency. The Complainant states that he spoke with a supervisor on March 9, 2023, regarding the account. The Complainant contends that this collection action is now in a legal status by mistake as fraudulent notes were placed on the account back in March 2021 and that the alleged mistake led to an illegal judgment being entered against the Complainant and the garnishing of over $4,000.00 from the Complainant’s bank account. The Complainant now requests a letter from Speedy Cash advising that this judgment was an error because the documents establishing fraud (FTC REPORT) were provided in March of 2021.
  
  A review of Speedy Cash’s records shows on October 7, 2017, a loan in the principal amount financed of $785.00 was obtained with Ivy Funding Eight, LLC using the Complainant’s personal identifying information. The loan was to be repaid in 11 bi-weekly payments of $215.57 beginning October 20, 2017, and a final payment of $215.39 due on March 23, 2018. Speedy Cash is a registered Texas Credit Access Business (“CAB”) and assists consumers in obtaining loans from willing, unaffiliated lenders and services the resulting loans. Speedy Cash services the loan but is not a lender in Texas. Speedy Cash charges a CAB fee in the amount permitted by Texas law.
  
  On October 25, 2017, when the scheduled payment was dishonored and returned unpaid due to insufficient funds, the account was placed in a past due status. Thereafter, collection activities commenced as allowed by law. Speedy Cash attempted to contact the Complainant to help with repayment but was unsuccessful.
  
  Due to nonpayment, on January 24, 2018, the loan was placed with ** *****. It appears that while the account was being managed by ** *****, the Complainant made a claim of fraud; however, Speedy Cash cannot speak to the nature of the investigation performed by ** ***** concerning his claim.
  
  In an attempt to collect funds due, ** ***** placed the account with ******* *** ***** which filed a complaint and directed that a summons be issued to the Complainant. The Complainant was served with the summons and complaint but did not appear or properly answer the complaint. Due to the failure to respond to the complaint or otherwise properly raise defenses to the complaint, a judgement was entered against the Complainant. Nonetheless, having reviewed the Complainant’s correspondence with the BBB and the obvious frustration the Complainant has arising from the situation, as an accommodation to the Complainant, Speedy Cash has directed the attorney who obtained the judgement to have the judgment vacated and to direct that the garnished funds be refunded to the Complainant.
  
  We hope that we have fully addressed the complaint and provides a satisfactory resolution to the Complainant. Should the Complainant or the Better Business Bureau require further explanation, we may be reached at *****************************
  
  Sincerely,
  
  *** – Consumer Complaints
  **** *** *** ********** ** ***** 
  
  

• Initial Complaint

  Date:03/07/2023

  Type:Billing Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I applied for a title loan in April of 2022 for $1500.00 and I missed a few payments do to some financial hardships. My car was repossessed in Aug of 2022 and I NEVER received any letters or nothing. I was told that I owed almost $3500.00, but was given the option of paying half to get my car back. After I picked up my car I tried to see of they were willing to lower the balance so I would be able to make payments. I was not given any option for lower payments even though majority of the total was fees that I was not aware of. I finally was able to get a settlement amount of $1300.00, and the balance of $431 or around that will be zeroed out once I made the payment. I went in store to make the payment on Feb 8, 2023 and was told that it should take 24/48hrs for the balance to be zeroed out. Once that happens I will receive my title via electronic. It is now March 7, 2023 and I still have not received my title, I call everyday and told that I should just wait until they call me. I even offered to pay the balance so I can get my title and they told me that they could NOT take any money from me since we have an settlement. I have been working with a ***** and ******* in the customer service department.

  

  Business Response

  Date: 03/15/2023

  ************
  
  Thank the Complainant for the opportunity to respond to the complaint filed by ********* ******* (Complainant Check Into Cash of Wisconsin, LLC dba Check Into Cash (CIC), a member of the Community Choice Financial® family of brands, appreciates the role of the Better Business Bureau in resolving consumer concerns. We are happy to provide this response.
  
  To summarize, the Complainant states their car was repossessed, but they never received any letters. They claim they owed almost $3,500.00 but were given the option to pay half to get their car back. The Complainant also claims they were not given any option for lower payments even though majority of the total was fees that they were not aware of. They state they were finally able to get a settlement of $1,300.00. After paying off the loan, they claim they never received the title to their vehicle. They are requesting that they are compensated for the overcharge fees they were not aware of and their clear title.
  
  A review of Check into Cash’s record shows on April 1, 2022, the Complainant obtained a loan with Check into Cash in the principal amount financed of $2,000.00 at a storefront in West Allis, WI. The loan was contracted to be repaid in full in 15 bi-weekly payments of $215.18 beginning April 28, 2022, and a final payment of $215.02 on November 24, 2022. As part of this loan, the Complainant granted Check into Cash a security interest in a 2012 Cadillac CTS with a VIN ending in 140132.
  
  As part of the process of requesting a loan, the loan agreement must be reviewed by the Complainant before the loan is signed. The annual percentage rate, finance charge, amount financed, total of payments and payment schedule, including the due date, are clearly disclosed in accordance with the Federal Truth in Lending Act and Regulation Z on the first page of the loan agreement. If the Complainant does not agree to the disclosed terms and conditions of the loan, the Complainant has the option to stop the loan process any time. The Complainant also had the right to rescind the transaction without paying the finance charge before the close of the following business day.
  
  When the Complainant missed their scheduled payments, on June 22, 2022, Check Into Cash sent the Complainant a “Notice of Right To Cure Default and Notice of Our Intent to Repossess” stating that if the Complainant does not cure the default on or before July 13, 2022, Check Into Cash has the right to take possession of the motor vehicle that secures the credit transaction, or is subject to the lease, without further notice or court proceeding. On August 16, 2022, the Complainant’s vehicle was repossessed. On August 18, 2022, the Complainant made a payment arrangement for the Complainant to redeem their vehicle. On August 25, 2022, the Complainant made a partial payment in the amount of $1,740.00 as agreed. On February 8, 2022, the Complainant made a payment in the settled amount of $1,300.00 to pay off the loan and Check Into Cash submitted a request to waive the remaining balance of $438.48, as courtesy. On March 8, 2023, a rebate in the amount of $438.48 was approved and was applied to the Complainant’s outstanding balance paying off the Complainant’s loan in full. On March 10, 2023, the Complainant’s title was successfully released electronically through Web Access Management System (WAMS).
  
  It is important to note Check into Cash highly encourages customers to use this product as a short-term financial solution and that small-dollar loans used over a long period of time can be expensive. After reviewing the Complainant’s account, our records show Check Into Cash made numerous efforts in assisting the Complainant with paying off their loan and was also provided with a rebate as courtesy. As we believe that the conditions of the loan were clearly disclosed and cannot find any evidence of wrongdoing, an additional loan balance adjustment will not be provided at this time.
  
  We hope that we have fully addressed the complaint. Should the complainant or the Better Business Bureau require further explanation, we may be reached at *****************************
  
  Sincerely,
  
  BSG – Consumer Complaints
  ** *** *** ********** ** ***** 

• Initial Complaint

  Date:03/04/2023

  Type:Order Issues
  Status:

  ResolvedMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  ON FEB 12TH, I MADE A PAYDAY ADVANCE FOR A TOTAL WITH INTEREST INCLUDED $529.75 WHICH HAS BEEN PAID BACK ALREADY ON MARCH 4TH. THIS LOCATION HAS ALWAYS BEEN GOOD TO ME. BUT ALL IT TAKES IS ONE WRONG CUST. SERVICE REP. THIS REP GAVE ME ENTIRELY ALL WRONG INFO. SHE GAVE ME A GREEN DOT CARD TOTALING $300.00 WHICH I ACCEPTED BECAUSE SHE TOLD ME THAT IF I USED IT, THEN THERE WOULD BE A DOLLAR CHARGE EACH TIME. WELL, I DON'T LIKE THAT BUT THEN SHE ALSO TOLD THAT IF I USED IT TO MAKE ONLINE PURCHASES, THERE WOULD BE NO CHARGE AT ALL. I DISCOVERED THAT SHE WAS TOTALLY WRONG AND I DID REACH OUT TO SPEAK TO HER. SHE TREATED ME BADLY, GASLIGHTED ME OVER THE PHONE, RAISED HER VOICE TO ME, AND WAS STILL INACCURATE. I DID NOT WANT TO SPEAK TO HER AGAIN. I HAD A SERIES OF PHONE CALLS WITH AN OPERATIONS MANAGER NAMED MR. ***** (AS BEST AS I CAN RECALL HIS NAME). BUT I FELT SOMETHING WAS WRONG. THIS IS NO WAY TO ENTER INTO A TRANSACTION BECAUSE IN ADDITION TO PAYING INTEREST CHARGES WHICH I DID, THE GREEN DOT CARD CHARGES $1.95 EACH TIME YOU USE IT REGARDLESS WHETHER ONLINE OR NOT. I MADE ANOTHER DISTRESS CALL TO MR. ***** ABOUT THAT AS WELL. I JUST FELT HE WANTED TO GET RID OF ME WITH THE WAY HE TRIED TO MAKE OFFERS TO ME. I FELT THE BEST WAY TO HANDLE THIS IS TO GET ON THE RECORD WITH THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU AND IF THAT FAILS, TO CONTACT THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION WHICH IS GAINING A LOT OF POPULARITY ALSO WHEN THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH A BUSINESS.

  

  Business Response

  Date: 03/10/2023

  ******************
  
  Thank you for the opportunity to respond to the complaint filed by ******* ****** (Complainant). Buckeye Check Cashing of Kentucky, Inc., Dba Checksmart, a member of Community Choice Financial® family of brands, appreciates the role of the Better Business Bureau in resolving consumer concerns. We are happy to provide this response.
  
  To summarize, the Complainant states they made a payday advance with CheckSmart and were given a GreenDot card totaling $300.00 in which they accepted as they were told there would be no charge for online purchases. The Complainant states they were told wrong and when they reached out to Checksmart, the Complainant claims she was treated badly and was gaslit over the phone. The Complainant then had a series of phone calls with an operations Manager named Mr. ***** telling him that this is no way to enter into a transaction. The Complainant is requesting explanation of the charges.
  
  A review of our records revealed, on February 12, 2023, the Complainant obtained a loan with Checksmart in the principal amount financed of $450.00 at a storefront in Louisville, Kentucky. The loan was contracted to be repaid in one payment of $529.75 due on March 8, 2023. Checksmart offered to load a portion of the loan proceeds onto GreenDot Prepaid Visa card to which the Complainant accepted.
  
  It is important to note CheckSmart only provides customers with access to GreenDot’s products and is not affiliated with GreenDot. Consumers who receive a prepaid GreenDot card at a Checksmart location are provided with Green Dot’s terms and conditions including any fees associated with using the card. We urge the Complainant contact GreenDot directly at ###-###-#### for a detailed explanation of the charges they incurred on their GreenDot card.
  
  Regarding the bad treatment the Complainant allegedly received, Checksmart employees are expected to always treat customers courteously and with the utmost respect and must attend to customers' questions and demands promptly and professionally. We apologize for any frustration the Complainant may have experienced.
  
  We hope that we have fully addressed the complaint. Should the Complainant or the Better Business Bureau require further explanation, we may be reached at [email protected].
  
  Sincerely,
  
  *** – Consumer Complaints
  **** ******* **** **** ******* ** *****     
  
  
  

  Customer Answer

  Date: 03/11/2023

  the total loan of $529/75 was paid in full in advance on march 3rd.  

  
  

  i repeat checksmart informed me incorrectly for which i based my decision to accept the loan.  they told me they ran out of money and had to offer the greendot cards instead of cash, but not fully informing customers that there were additional charges in addition to the interest already incurred with the regular loan.

  
  

  i also repeat i was informed that each time i used the greendot card it would cost be $1.00 which i was not happy with and was going to decline the loan.  in fact, i was disappointed and wished i  had went to another checksmart.  however, the customer service rep came back and informed me that if i used all my purchases online, then there would be no checksmart charge at all.  i felt that was fair enough. 

  
  

   i did contact greendot and was informed that all transactions when using the greendot card are $1.95, which is all totally inaccurate false information that checksmart passed on to me.  i felt that checksmart wanted to pass on the blame to greendot when what they were doing was to have the customer pay more charges in addition to the interest already charged.  

  
  

  i repeat i reached out to checksmart several times directly to the lady that served me at checksmart who gaslighted me and then to mr. david.  i felt this could not be legal when making a transaction.  i wanted to go ahead and file this complaint to the better business bureau and depending on how well checksmart behaves, i may have to report this to the federal trade commission. 

  
  

  i cannot accept checksmart's statement as true and must reject it's answer as totally false.  

  
  

  i trust that since checksmart has failed to make an offer to repair this damage, then it is supposed to be better business bureau's practice that all unresolved claims be posted online.  if that is not the case, please inform me immediately. 

  
  

  thanks again for your time.     

  
  

  
  

  ******* ******

  

  Business Response

  Date: 03/22/2023

  ***************
  
  Thank you for the opportunity to respond to the complaint filed by ******* ****** (Complainant). Buckeye Check Cashing of Kentucky, Inc., Dba Checksmart, a member of Community Choice Financial® family of brands, appreciates the role of the Better Business Bureau in resolving consumer concerns. We are happy to provide this response.
  
  To summarize, the Complainant’s rebuttal states Checksmart informed the Complainant incorrectly on which they based their decision to accept the loan. They claim they were told Checksmart ran out of money and had to be offered Greendot cards without fully informing customers of the additional charges in addition to the interest incurred with the loan. The Complainant also claims they were informed that it would cost $1.00 each time they used the Greendot card which they were not happy with and were going to decline the loan. However, the customer service representative informed the Complainant that if they made all the purchases online, there would be no Checksmart charge at all. They contacted Greendot and were informed that all transactions when using the Greendot card are $1.95, which is inaccurate information that Checksmart passed on to the Complainant. The Complainant felt that Checksmart wanted to pass on the blame to Greendot when what they were doing was to have the customer pay more charges in addition to the interest already charged. They felt that this transaction is illegal and Checksmart has failed to make an offer to repair this damage.
  
  We regret that the Complainant remains dissatisfied with our response. At loan origination, the Complainant was informed that the store did not have enough cash available to fully fund the loan in cash; as a solution, the Complainant was offered to load part of the funds into a Green Dot Prepaid Visa Card to which the Complainant agreed.
  
  As stated in our initial response, Checksmart only provides customers with access to GreenDot’s products and is not affiliated with GreenDot. GreenDot has its own preregistration process, where a customer must agree to GreenDot’s Term and Condition including fees charged, prior to receiving a card. We urge the Complainant to refer to their GreenDot Terms and Conditions for any fees associated with using the card. It is important to note CheckSmart does not charge any fees to the Complainant when they use their GreenDot card for purchases or cash withdrawal. For a detailed explanation of the charges incurred on their GreenDot prepaid card, we encourage the Complainant to contact GreenDot directly at ###-###-####.
  
  We apologize for any frustration the Complainant may have experienced. In the interest of goodwill, we will issue a refund for the fee of $88.50 assessed on the Complainant’s loan. We have mailed a refund check to the address provided in the complaint.
  
  We hope that we have fully addressed the complaint. Should the Complainant or the Better Business Bureau require further explanation, we may be reached at [email protected].
  
  Sincerely,
  
  BSG – Consumer Complaints
  PO Box 550
  Cleveland, TN 37364 
  

  Customer Answer

  Date: 03/30/2023

  THIS MORNING, I RECEIVED A CHECK IN THE AMOUNT OF $85.50 POSTMARKED MARCH 24TH.  PLEASE NOTICE IN CHECKSMART'S LAST LETTER OF MARCH 22ND WHICH STATED THE LETTER WAS MAILED ALREADY BY THE 22ND, THE AMOUNT STATED IN THE LETTER TO ME AND THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU WAS $88.50.  THE CHECK RECEIVED IS $85.50.  I WISH TO REITERATE AGAIN THAT I WAS TOLD BY THE CHECKSMART ASSISTANT ORIGINALLY THAT ALL ONLINE PURCHASES WERE FREE AND ONCE AGAIN, WAS NOT TRUE.  THAT WAS THE REASON FOR ACCEPTING THE GREENDOT CARD WHICH CHECKSMART DOESN'T REALLY ADDRESS THAT DECEPTION ISSUE. 
  

  
  

  I WANT TO FIRST THANK THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU OF CENTRAL OHIO FOR THEIR ADVOCACY HELP IN MY MATTER.  I WASN'T EXPECTING A POSITIVE OUTCOME.  AND I WISH TO THANK MY BBB DISPUTE RESOLUTION SPECIALIST. 
  

  
  

  AND TO CHECKSMART, I HAVE FOUND ANOTHER BRANCH LOCATION WITH A REALLY NICE AND BETTER TRAINED STAFF.  NOT ALL BRANCH OFFICES ARE CREATED EQUAL.  THIS ONE IS MORE FRIENDLY PROFESSIONAL.   THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR TIME.  I DON'T EXPECT THIS TO HAPPEN AGAIN. 
  

  
  

  I accept the business's response to resolve this complaint.

  
  

  Regards,

  
  ******* ******

• Initial Complaint

  Date:02/26/2023

  Type:Billing Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  Speedy Cash is ruining my life. I contacted them and explained that I could no longer afford to pay and needed to default on the loan. I asked them to stop taking payments out of my bank account. My bank account is a mess with a whirlwind of overdraft charges and I am unable to pay my regular bills. They have taken multiple payments at once, emptying my bank account. Now they have reported me as 2 months late causing my credit score to drop nearly 70 points. Speedy Cash has put me financial ruin and do not see a way out.

  

  Business Response

  Date: 03/03/2023

  Thank you for the opportunity to respond to the complaint filed by ****** **** (Complainant). SCIL Inc. Dba Speedy Cash, a member of the Community Choice Financial® family of brands, appreciates the role of the Better Business Bureau in resolving consumer concerns. We are happy to provide this response.
  
  To summarize, the Complainant states they contacted Speedy Cash and explained that the Complainant could no longer afford to pay the loan. They claim they asked Speedy Cash to stop taking payments out of the Complainant’s bank account. They also claim they received overdraft fees and are unable to pay their regular bills due to the multiple payments Speedy Cash took out. The Complainant also claims Speedy Cash has now reported the Complainant two months late on their payment causing their credit score to drop nearly 70 points. They are requesting a correction to their credit report and to not be contacted by Speedy Cash.
  
  As a brief background, on October 27, 2022, Speedy Cash’s records show the Complainant obtained an installment loan with Speedy Cash online at www.speedycash.com in the principal amount financed of $500.00. The loan was contracted to be repaid in 13 bi-weekly payments of $78.25 beginning November 4, 2022, and a final payment of $78.06 due on May 5, 2023. At the time of loan origination, the Complainant signed a loan agreement that clearly discloses the annual percentage rate, finance charge, amount financed, total of payments and the repayment schedule in accordance with the Federal Truth-in-Lending Act and Regulation Z. Additionally, the Complainant also signed an Optional Loan Payment Authorization (OPLA) that authorizes and instructs Speedy Cash to initiate an ACH or debit card payments on the loan due dates, or in the event of default, to collect the outstanding loan balance.
  
  A review of the loan payment history shows the Complainant made a total of five (5) payments toward the account. On December 2, 2022, when the Complainant’s scheduled debit card payment was declined, the account went into past due status. Thereafter, collection activities commenced as allowed by law. Collection payments were processed via ACH, one on February 7, 2023, in the amount of $78.25 and two on February 22, 2023 in the amounts of $78.25 each, for past due payments as allowed by the signed loan agreement and the OPLA that authorized Speedy Cash to initiate an EFT, ACH or card payment in the event of default. The OPLA signed at loan initiation, authorized electronic debit of the Complainant account as follows:
  
  Past Due Payments and Other Amounts Due: At anytime and from time to time, to the extent allowed by applicable law, we may initiate electronic payments on the Payment Card and/or the Bank Account to seek payment of: (1) any past due amount on the Loan; (2) any returned item (“RI”) fee (not applicable in Tennessee); or (3) the balance due on the Loan after its maturity or after we declare the entire balance due (1)-(3) collectively, (“Collection Payments”). We may initiate Collection Payments at the same time as we initiate Scheduled Payments. When any ACH item is returned to us for any reason, we may, but not required to, reinstate an ACH entry to your Bank up to two additional times as permitted by applicable ACH rules.
  
  We submit there was no unauthorized payment taken from the Complainant’s account.  It is important to note that customers are never required to repay a debt through electronic payments. Our records indicate Speedy Cash spoke to the Complainant on February 10, 2023 regarding the financial difficulties they were experiencing and their intent to revoke electronic payments. The Complainant was instructed to send a written revocation request, however, the Complainant did not send a written revocation request until February 26, 2023, four days after collection ACH payments have been initiated. Please note that with the revocation request, all future payments will need to be initiated by the Complainant in person at a store location, online, by phone or mail.
  
  Regarding the Complainant’s request for correction on their credit report, Speedy Cash, under the terms of the Fair Credit Reporting Act, is required by law to report accurate information on accounts, including the payment history, to the credit bureau and therefore, without further evidence of what the Complainant believes to be reporting in error, Speedy Cash deems the Complainant’s account information to be correct.
  
  As for the Complainant’s request for no further contact by the business, the Complainant’s account has been notated to no longer be contacted by Speedy Cash effective March 2, 2023.
  
  Speedy Cash understands that unforeseen circumstances may occasionally arise that result in temporary financial setbacks such that making timely payments are difficult.  We encourage the Complainant to contact Speedy Cash at ###-###-####to discuss mutually agreeable payment plan.
  
  We hope that we have fully addressed the complaint. Should the Complainant or the Better Business Bureau require further explanation, we may be reached at [email protected].
  
  Sincerely,
  
  BSG – Consumer Complaints
  5165 Emerald Pkwy #100
  Dublin, OH 43017     

• Initial Complaint

  Date:02/23/2023

  Type:Billing Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  Spoke with someone yesterday after telling them that my account was in collections I would make a payment when I can. Woke up this morning and there was huge withdraw. After I told them not to do this

  

  Business Response

  Date: 03/02/2023

  Thank you for the opportunity to respond to the complaint filed by ***** ******* (Complainant). SCIL Texas, Inc., Dba Speedy Cash, a member of Community Choice Financial® family of brands, appreciates the role of the Better Business Bureau in resolving consumer concerns. We are happy to provide this response.
  
  To summarize, the Complainant states they spoke with Speedy Cash telling them the Complainant would make a payment when they can. They claim Speedy Cash withdrew money from their account the next day. They are requesting a refund and to be contacted.
  
  As a brief background, on January 2, 2023, Speedy Cash’s records show the Complainant obtained an installment loan with ***** **** ********* in the principal amount financed of $500.00 at a Speedy Cash storefront in ********** ****** *he loan was contracted to be repaid in 11 bi-weekly payments of $119.52 beginning January 15, 2023, and a final payment of $119.30 due on July 1, 2023. **** ****** *** DBA Speedy Cash is a registered Texas Credit Access Business (“CAB”) and assists consumers in obtaining loans from willing, unaffiliated lenders and services the resulting loans. Speedy Cash services the loan and does not operate in Texas as a lender. Speedy Cash charges CAB fee amounts as permitted by Texas state law.
  
  At the time of loan origination, the Complainant signed a loan agreement that clearly discloses the annual percentage rate, finance charge, amount financed, total of payments and the repayment schedule in accordance with the Federal Truth-in-Lending Act and Regulation Z. Additionally, the Complainant also signed an Optional Loan Payment Authorization and Optional Payment Card Authorization that authorizes and instructs Rapid Cash to initiate an ACH or debit card payments on the loan due dates, or in the event of default, to collect the outstanding loan balance.
  
  On February 3, 2023, when the Complainant’s scheduled payment in the amount of $119.52 returned unpaid due to insufficient funds, the account went into past due status. Thereafter, collection activities commenced as allowed by law. After continued failed payment attempts, the loan was accelerated and became due in full. On February 23, 2023, a collection payment was then processed for $773.96 with card ending in 3017 for a past due payment as allowed by the signed loan agreement and the Optional Loan Payment Authorization that authorized Speedy Cash to initiate an EFT, ACH or card payment in the event of default. The Complainant also the signed Optional Payment Card Authorization which states:
  
  Authorization for Collection Payments. We want you to know that the payment cards identified above (the “Payment Cards”) are currently associated with your Account. By signing this OPCA, you agree that we may initiate electronic payments on any of these Payment Cards to collect non-scheduled payments on any of our Loan(s) to you, including: (1) any past due amount; (2) any returned item (“RI”) fee (not applicable in Tennessee); or (3) the balance due after maturity or after we declare the entire balance due.
  
  We submit there was no unauthorized payment taken from the Complainant’s account.  It is important to note that customers are never required to repay a debt through electronic payments. While our records indicate Speedy Cash spoke to the Complainant a day prior to paying the loan in full, at no time did the Complainant revoke their payment authorization. We also never received a written payment revocation request from the Complainant.  Should the complainant have additional questions regarding their account, we encourage them to contact our Customer Service Department at ###-###-####. 
  
  We hope that we have fully addressed the complaint. Should the Complainant or the Better Business Bureau require further explanation, we may be reached at ****************************.
  
  Sincerely,
  
  *** – Consumer Complaints
  **** ******* **** **** ******* ** *****     

  Customer Answer

  Date: 03/09/2023

  fraud no one authorized them to take out that much after speaking with them 
  
  Regards,
  
  ***** *******

• Initial Complaint

  Date:02/22/2023

  Type:Service or Repair Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  Speedpay, Curo, CCFI. Processed a loan in my name without verification. They violated the US Patriot Act by not requiring an ID and citizenship verification in order to process a loan. They verified to me that an ID was not needed to process a loan in my name.

  Said CCFI os in charge if verification and they didn't require an ID. So a loan was illegally processed in my name on Feb 21, 2023.

  When I called to notify them, Speedway said they canceled the loan but that's all they could do. Said they would not issue me a letter stating the loan had been canceled and would not send me a letter stating the hard credit from Curo would be taken off my credit report.

  I have filed a report woth FTC, FBI and local police. As well as let SSA know as well. This company is unlawfully processing loans without verification, they are not following the US Patriot Act.

  

  Business Response

  Date: 02/28/2023

  Thank you for the opportunity to respond to the complaint filed by ****** ******** (Complainant). Speedy Cash, a member of the CCF Intermediate Holdings LLC family of brands, appreciates the role of the Better Business Bureau in resolving consumer concerns. We are happy to provide this response.
  
  To summarize, the Complainant states Speedy Cash processed a loan under the Complainant’s name without verification. They claim Speedy Cash violated the US Patriot Act by not requiring an ID and citizenship verification in order to process a loan. They also claim they were told that an ID was not needed to process a loan in their name. The Complainant also states they called Speedy Cash to notify them about the loan processed and was told the loan had been cancelled; however, Speedy Cash would not send a letter stating the hard credit would be taken off the Complainant’s credit report. They are requesting a letter stating that the loan has been cancelled and the hard pull on their credit report has been taken off. 
  
  Speedy Cash’s records reflect that on February 21, 2023, a payday loan was obtained with Speedy Cash online at ****************** using the Complainant’s personal identifying information. Speedy Cash recognizes the seriousness of identity theft and has extensive measures in place to help mitigate the fraudulent use of unlawfully obtained data. Unfortunately, in this instance, it appears that the Complainant’s personal information was compromised prior to the loan transaction with Speedy Cash as the perpetrator was able to provide enough of their non-public information to pass through our strict underwriting criteria and be approved for a loan. 
  
  Fortunately, no loans were underwritten under the Complainant’s name. The Complainant’s information has been updated in the system to prevent any future fraudulent activity with Speedy Cash. Further, Speedy Cash submitted a request to credit reporting agencies (CRA’s) to delete any credit inquiries or reporting, which could take up to 90 days to be reflected on their credit report.
  
  Regarding the Complainant’s allegation that Speedy Cash violated the US Patriot Act, it is important to note that Speedy Cash is required by the U. S. Patriot Act to implement a customer identification program (CIP) to verify the identities of the persons with whom it does business. While Speedy Cash does not request a copy of an applicant’s ID, Speedy Cash has a robust verification process in place designed to establish an applicant’s identity as well as variety of ways to combat fraud applicants attempt to receive credit via online channels.
  
  Speedy Cash strongly urges any consumer who suspects that their information has been compromised to report such incidents to all applicable law enforcement agencies and take all possible precautions to secure their personal identification and financial information. Should the Complainant have additional questions or concerns, they are encouraged to call Speedy Cash at ###-###-####.
  
  We hope that we have fully addressed the complaint. Should the Complainant or the Better Business Bureau require further explanation, we may be reached at [email protected].
  
  Sincerely,
  
  *** – Consumer Complaints
  **** ******* **** **** ******* ** *****