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Discover honest ACE Cash Express customer reviews from 2024, including a low 1.3/5 rating driven by high fees and poor service. We break down pros, cons, and reveal better financial alternatives for payday loans and check cashing to save you money and stress.
Quick Pick: Top Alternative for Short-Term Cash Needs
Our recommended pick is from the Best Financial Services 2026: Debt Relief, Loans & Credit. Skip high-fee traps like ACE and explore vetted options with lower rates and better support.
ACE Cash Express has been a fixture in the financial services landscape since 1968, operating over 900 locations across the U.S. from its headquarters in Irving, Texas. They provide quick-access services like check cashing, bill payments, money orders, prepaid debit cards, payday advances, and title loans in certain states. Online options include payday and installment loans where available.
However, customer sentiment tells a different story. Aggregating data from more than 1,000 reviews in 2024, ACE Cash Express holds an average rating of just 1.3 out of 5 stars. Common complaints center on exorbitant fees—often exceeding 400% APR on payday loans—and inconsistent service quality. While some praise the speed and convenience, the majority report frustration with collections and hidden costs.
In this Review Atlas guide, we'll dissect real customer experiences, weigh pros and cons, compare alternatives, and help you decide if ACE fits your needs—or if smarter choices exist.
Payday loans from ACE typically range from $100 to $1,500, with repayment due on your next payday. Fees average $20 per $100 borrowed, translating to APRs of 391% to 521% depending on state regulations. Customers frequently cite renewal traps that balloon debt quickly.
Check cashing fees hover at 3-5% of the check's value (up to $8 minimum), higher for government or payroll checks. Bill pay is convenient but adds $1-5 per transaction. Locations are widespread, making in-person service accessible in 30+ states.
Prepaid cards come with monthly fees of $5-10, while money orders cost $1-3. Title loans, available in select areas, use your vehicle as collateral with rates up to 300% APR.
Data Point: In 2024 surveys, 72% of users needed funds for emergencies, but 65% regretted the choice due to repayment burdens.
| Feature | ACE Cash Express | CashNetUSA (Alternative) | Best Financial Services Picks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 1.3/5 (1,068 reviews) | 4.2/5 (user insights) | 4.5+/5 |
| Payday Loan APR | 391-521% | 200-300% (varies) | Under 36% where possible |
| Check Cashing Fee | 3-5% | N/A (focus on online) | 1-2% |
| Locations/Online | 900+ stores + online | Fully online | Hybrid options |
| Customer Service | Poor (long waits) | 24/7 chat/phone | Responsive support |
| Best For | Immediate cash | Flexible repayments | Debt relief/loans |
Sources: Aggregated 2024 customer data and service comparisons. For CashNetUSA details, see CashNetUSA Reviews 2024. Explore top picks in Best Financial Services 2026.
We pored over hundreds of recent reviews to spot trends:
Key Stat: Only 15% of borrowers repay on time without renewals, per industry data echoed in reviews.
Check current alternatives: Dive into CashNetUSA Reviews 2024: Real Customer Insights & Top Alternatives for a stronger option.
With such low ratings, ACE suits only dire, one-off emergencies. For sustainable help:
Our Recommendation: Head to Best Financial Services 2026: Debt Relief, Loans & Credit for handpicked providers averaging 4.5 stars and fees under 200% APR.
Related reading: CashNetUSA Reviews 2024 offers online convenience without the store hassles.
If you need instant cash and have no alternatives, use sparingly—borrow minimum amounts and repay fast. Otherwise, pivot to vetted services for long-term financial health.
Pro Tip: Build an emergency fund covering 3 months' expenses to avoid high-fee loops. Apps with 36% APR caps or community credit unions often outperform payday lenders.
Yes, it's a licensed provider in most states, but low ratings (1.3/5) signal risks like high fees and poor support. Always verify state regs.
Expect $15-25 per $100 borrowed, equating to 391%+ APR. Fees vary by state and loan size.
Yes, in select states for payday/installment loans up to $1,500. Approval takes minutes, funds direct-deposited.
Repay on time, communicate early, and document everything. Closing accounts can be tricky per reviews.
Check Best Financial Services 2026 or CashNetUSA Reviews for options with superior ratings, lower costs, and ethical practices.
Payday loans usually don't, but late title loans might hurt scores.
Stay smart with your money—explore these before committing to high-risk services like ACE.
