Responsible lending

Responsible borrowing and transparent lending practices help consumers make informed decisions. CBW: Cash Advance & Loan App is not a lender; we provide a matching experience and education. The lender you choose sets the final terms and is responsible for underwriting, approvals, and servicing.

Consumer protection

We prioritize clear disclosures, privacy safeguards, and scam‑prevention guidance so users can evaluate options with confidence.

Fair pricing & transparency

We encourage lenders to provide understandable pricing, fees, and repayment schedules before you accept an offer.

Informed choice

You control whether to apply, which offer to accept, and whether to proceed. Never pay upfront “approval fees.”

Standards we look for

When we evaluate partners, we look for practices like:

  • Clear presentation of APR, fees, and total cost of credit
  • Upfront disclosures before you accept a loan
  • Secure handling of personal information
  • Reasonable customer support access for servicing questions
  • Policies to prevent fraud and identity misuse

Practices we prohibit (red flags)

We do not support “pay‑to‑get‑approved” schemes or deceptive marketing. Watch out for:

  • Requests for upfront payment by gift card, wire transfer, crypto, or payment apps to “unlock” funds
  • Pressure tactics: “Act now or lose approval” without written disclosures
  • Misrepresentations about guaranteed approval or guaranteed rates
  • Requests for sensitive data via email/text (full SSN, bank login credentials)
  • URLs or emails that don’t match the official domain

Borrower tips

Before you accept any loan offer, consider these practical steps to protect yourself and reduce cost:

  1. Borrow only what you need and can repay on time.
  2. Compare APR, fees, payment schedule, and total repayment amount.
  3. Confirm whether payments are monthly or bi‑weekly and whether autopay discounts exist.
  4. Review late fees, NSF/returned payment fees, and whether prepayment penalties apply.
  5. Keep copies of your lender agreement and disclosures for your records.

Warning: predatory lending

Predatory lending can involve abusive or deceptive terms, hidden fees, or coercive collection practices. If an offer is unclear, if you are being pressured, or if the lender refuses to provide disclosures in writing, do not proceed. If you believe you are a victim of fraud, report it to your state attorney general and the FTC.

Need help? Contact support at [email protected] or visit the Contact page.