First Virginia logo

First Virginia

2.3/5

First Virginia Financial Services offers check cashing, money orders, and third-party lending products at physical store locations across Virginia with same-day cash access.

Editorially reviewed by Harvey Brooks

Free to Use BBB: NR Free Consultation Visit Website

First Virginia Review

First Virginia Financial Services operates as a financial services provider focused on delivering short-term cash solutions to customers in need of immediate funds. The company emphasizes accessibility and convenience through a network of physical store locations, positioning itself as a community-based alternative to traditional banking for time-sensitive financial needs.

The company's primary service offerings center on check cashing and related cash access services. Beyond standard check cashing, First Virginia provides money orders and bill payment services. Additionally, they function as a third-party lending facilitator, connecting customers with external lenders for various loan products. The company also partners with Green Dot to offer prepaid Visa debit card solutions, expanding their cash management options for customers without traditional bank accounts.

First Virginia differentiates itself through an emphasis on customer service and in-person guidance. Their marketing highlights a team of experts available to walk customers through the application and approval process, positioning accessibility and personalized assistance as core competitive advantages. The in-store model allows for immediate cash transactions and face-to-face consultation, which appeals to customers who prefer direct interaction over digital-only services.

The company operates within the check-cashing industry, a sector that serves unbanked and underbanked populations but typically carries higher fees than traditional banks. While First Virginia provides genuine utility for customers needing immediate cash access and those uncomfortable with digital banking, customers should carefully review fee structures and terms for any third-party lending products, as these may carry significant costs. The reliance on physical locations means geographic limitations for service access.

Services & Features

Check cashing for personal and business checks
Money order services
Bill payment services
Green Dot prepaid Visa debit card distribution and enrollment
Third-party personal loan product facilitation
Short-term cash advance connections
Customer financial guidance and consultation
In-store application processing and approval assistance

Feature Checklist

Credit Education
Identity Theft Protection
Score Tracking
Mobile App
Online Portal
Personal Advisor

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Same-day or next-day cash access for check cashing transactions at multiple store locations
  • Offers Green Dot prepaid Visa debit cards for unbanked customers seeking card-based payment options
  • Third-party lending connections provide access to loans beyond basic check cashing for customers with various cash needs
  • In-person expert support available to guide customers through applications and answer questions about services
  • Multiple service offerings under one roof: check cashing, money orders, bill payment, and lending product access
  • Conveniently located physical stores for customers who prefer in-person transactions over digital platforms
  • No requirement for traditional bank accounts or credit history to use basic check cashing services

Cons

  • Check cashing and money order services typically carry higher fees than bank offerings
  • Limited to physical store locations, restricting access for customers outside service areas
  • Third-party lending products are not directly offered by First Virginia, meaning customers have less direct control over terms and conditions
  • No online or mobile check cashing option mentioned, requiring in-person visits for all transactions
  • Website provides minimal transparency on specific fee schedules or lending product details

Rating Breakdown

Value
2.0
Effectiveness
1.5
Customer Service
2.2
Transparency
2.0
Ease of Use
3.9

Frequently Asked Questions

Is First Virginia legitimate?

Yes. First Virginia is a registered company headquartered in 5900 E Virginia Beach Blvd #256, Norfolk, VA 23502. They hold a NR rating with the Better Business Bureau.

Quick Facts

Headquarters
5900 E Virginia Beach Blvd #256, Norfolk, VA 23502
BBB Rating
NR
BBB Accredited
No
Starting Price
Free to Use
Setup Fee
None
Free Consultation
Yes
Money-Back Guarantee
No
Visit First Virginia

CreditDoc Diagnosis

Doctor's Verdict on First Virginia

First Virginia is best for Virginia residents without bank accounts or those needing immediate same-day check cashing at physical locations. The primary caveat is that customers should carefully review fee structures for check cashing and money order services, as these typically exceed bank rates, and should independently evaluate any third-party lending products offered through their facilitation.

Best For

  • Unbanked or underbanked individuals needing immediate cash access without bank accounts
  • Customers who prefer in-person service and face-to-face guidance over digital banking
  • People seeking quick check cashing, money orders, or bill payment services in Virginia locations
Updated 2026-04-01

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