Community-based financial service centers offering check cashing, bill payments, money transfers, and prepaid debit cards across 50+ locations nationwide.
Editorially reviewed by Harvey Brooks
Family Financial Centers has operated as a network of independently owned and operated community financial service centers for over 20 years. The company positions itself as serving the unbanked, underbanked, small businesses, and Americans living paycheck-to-paycheck, operating more than 50 locations nationwide with extended hours (open six days per week). The company emphasizes respect, dignity, and customer-friendly service as core values in its operations.
The company's primary service is check cashing using a proprietary verification and risk assessment system that enables cashing of most checks with only a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or military ID). Beyond check cashing, Family Financial Centers offers bill payments for hundreds of companies (electric, gas, telephone, wireless), money transfers as authorized Western Union agents, and prepaid Visa debit cards that can receive direct deposit of checks or portions thereof. These services are delivered through a professional, customer-focused environment.
Family Financial Centers distinguishes itself through its community-based ownership model (independently owned and operated locations), extended operating hours, and a stated commitment to serving financially underserved populations. The company frames itself as raising "the standard for community-based financial centers" and emphasizes that it has served "thousands of satisfied customers" over two decades. The focus on small business support alongside consumer services sets it apart from some competitors.
As a check-cashing and alternative financial services provider, the company serves a legitimate market need for unbanked and underbanked consumers. However, like all check-cashing services, it operates in a sector that typically charges fees that can be substantial relative to bank alternatives. The website provides limited transparency regarding specific fee schedules, service limitations, or comparative pricing, which is common but represents a potential caveat for cost-conscious consumers.
Yes. Family Financial Centers, Girard Check Cashing is a registered company headquartered in 1356 W Girard Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19123. They hold a NR rating with the Better Business Bureau.
CreditDoc Diagnosis
Family Financial Centers is best suited for unbanked and underbanked consumers needing check cashing, bill payment, and money transfer services in their local community, particularly those without traditional bank accounts or seeking extended operating hours. The primary caveat is that check-cashing fees and service costs are typically higher than traditional banking alternatives, though the company provides essential access for those excluded from the formal banking system.
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