When most people think of easy pawn shop loans shops, they picture a rundown storefront sandwiched between a check-cashing outlet and a mini-mart. In truth, most pawn shops are reputable places to buy and sell all sorts of items, including jewelry, firearms, electronics, tools, collectibles, musical instruments, and more. They also provide quick and convenient access to short-term loans, known as pawn shop loans. But how do these loans work, and are they a good option when you need cash quickly?

Pawnshop loans are easy to obtain, usually with same-day cash, and require very little paperwork. Most importantly, a pawn shop loan doesn’t require a credit check and won’t impact your credit score, even if you default on the loan. In exchange for the item you’re pawning, the pawnbroker will offer you a small percentage of its resale value – typically 25 to 60%.

Nearby Jewelry Pawn Shops: What to Expect

It’s important to note that if you don’t pay off your pawn shop loan in the agreed timeframe, you will lose the item you pledged as collateral. This can be especially devastating if the item holds sentimental value in addition to monetary value.

For those who need a temporary financial lifeline, pawn shop loans can be an excellent option. However, they can also be extremely expensive and trap borrowers in a cycle of debt. If you’re considering a pawn shop loan, there are a number of better alternatives available, such as personal loans, which are reported to the credit bureaus and feature competitive fixed rates and same-day funding.