Trusted Since 1941 — Founded by Ben F. Cheek, Jr.

Personal Loans from $600 to $15,000 with Fixed Rates

Get the financial support you need from the "Friendly Franklin Folks." Real people who care, backed by over 80 years of serving communities across the Southeast.

Fixed Interest Rates

No Hidden Fees

Same-Day Funding

No Prepayment Penalty

1941

Year Founded

370+

Branch Locations

10

States Served

1M+

Customers Helped

80+

Years in Business

370+

Branch Locations

1,000+

Team Members

4.6/5

Customer Rating

1st Franklin Financial headquarters in Toccoa, Georgia

Our Story: From a $34 Loan to 370+ Branches

It all started in 1941 when Ben F. Cheek, Jr. made his first auto loan — just $34 — from his law office in Toccoa, Georgia.

What began as a simple desire to help a neighbor has grown into one of the Southeast's most trusted financial services companies. For over 80 years, we've remained committed to the same values that founded our company: treating every customer like family, not just a number.

🏆 Still Family-Owned & Operated

Today, the Cheek family continues to lead 1st Franklin Financial, with Ben Cheek III serving as Chairman and CEO. Three generations of the Cheek family have dedicated themselves to serving our communities.

In 1950, we expanded our services and have continued growing ever since. Today, we proudly operate over 370 branches across 10 states, primarily serving rural and underserved communities throughout the Southeast.

Our Journey Through the Years

Key milestones in 1st Franklin Financial's history of serving communities.

1941

Ben F. Cheek, Jr. makes his first $34 auto loan from his law office in Toccoa, Georgia, founding 1st Franklin Financial.

1950

Company expands services by selling investment securities to the public to finance loan operations.

1970s

Expansion across Georgia with new branch openings, establishing the "Friendly Franklin Folks" reputation.

1990s

Growth into neighboring states including Alabama, Tennessee, and South Carolina.

2000s

Expansion into Texas, Florida, and additional Southeast markets. Reaches 300+ branch milestone.

Today

Over 370 branches across 10 states, still headquartered in Toccoa, Georgia. Third generation of Cheek family leadership.

Our Core Values: T.I.P.S.

The principles that guide everything we do at 1st Franklin Financial.

🤝 TEAM

We work together as one family, supporting each other and our customers. Our "Friendly Franklin Folks" are the heart of our company.

💡 IMPACT

We make a positive difference in the communities we serve, providing financial solutions that help families achieve their goals.

👥 PEOPLE

We put people first — always. You're not a number to us; you're a neighbor. We see you and your unique situation.

⭐ SERVICE

We deliver exceptional service with integrity, transparency, and respect. Same-day decisions, clear terms, and friendly support.

Personal Loans for Every Need

Whether you're consolidating debt, covering medical bills, or handling an emergency, we have flexible loan options to help.

💳

Debt Consolidation

Simplify multiple debts into one manageable monthly payment.

🏥

Medical Expenses

Cover unexpected medical bills and healthcare costs.

⚡

Emergency Loans

Quick access to funds with same-day approval available.

🏠

Home Improvement

Finance repairs, renovations, or upgrades to your home.

🚗

Auto Repairs

Keep your vehicle running with funds for unexpected repairs.

💒

Wedding Loans

Celebrate your special day without financial stress.

🎓

Starter Loans

Build your credit history with a manageable first loan.

🌟

Special Occasions

Holidays, graduations, family events, and more.

How to Get a Personal Loan in 3 Easy Steps

Our streamlined process makes getting a loan fast and simple. Most applications are reviewed the same day.

Apply Online or In Person

Complete our simple application in just minutes online, by phone, or at any of our 370+ branches. Applying won't affect your credit score.

Get Your Decision Fast

A friendly loan specialist from our local branch will review your application and contact you quickly—often the same day.

Receive Your Funds

Visit your local branch to finalize the paperwork and get your money. Same-day funding available when you apply early!

Start Your Application

Community First: Giving Back Since 1941

We don't just serve communities — we're part of them. Our teams actively volunteer and support local organizations.

🍽️ Food Banks & Pantries

Our branches regularly organize food drives and volunteer at local food banks like Second Harvest to fight hunger in our communities.

🎓 Financial Education

We believe in empowering our neighbors with financial literacy, offering free resources and guidance to help families make smart money decisions.

🏠 Local Partnerships

We partner with local businesses through our Retail Sales Financing program, helping small businesses grow and serve their communities.

❤️ Rural Communities

Many of our branches are in rural areas where we understand the unique challenges. We're committed to being there for underserved communities.

What Our Customers Say

Join over 1 million satisfied customers who trust the "Friendly Franklin Folks" for their lending needs.

★★★★★

"1st Franklin Financial is the best. You are not a number, you are family. They made the entire loan process easy and stress-free."

James R.

Atlanta, Georgia

✓ Verified Customer

★★★★★

"Very great company to get a loan from. I have personally got 3 loans from this company and will continue to go to them for any future loans. They actually treat you like a human not a number."

Sarah M.

Houston, Texas

✓ Verified Customer

★★★★★

"From start to finish, my experience was smooth, professional, and stress-free. The staff was incredibly friendly and went above and beyond to explain every step clearly."

Michael T.

Louisville, Kentucky

✓ Verified Customer

★★★★★

"Beyond amazing service. Treat you like family and not just a number. Can't even truly put into words how amazing they are. Highly recommend if you need anything!"

Linda K.

Birmingham, Alabama

✓ Verified Customer

Find a Branch Near You

With over 370 locations across 10 states, there's always a 1st Franklin Financial branch nearby — especially in rural communities where we're needed most.

Georgia

100+ Locations

Texas

50+ Locations

Alabama

40+ Locations

Florida

30+ Locations

+ 6 More States

View All 370+

States We Serve: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia

Ready to Get Started?

Apply now for a personal loan up to $15,000. Join the million+ customers who trust the Friendly Franklin Folks.

No Credit Impact to Apply

5-Minute Application

Friendly Local Service

Apply Now — Same Day Funding Available

Frequently Asked Questions

Get quick answers to common questions about 1st Franklin Financial and our personal loans.

We consider applicants with credit scores as low as 500. However, credit score is just one factor we consider. We also look at your income, employment history, and overall financial situation. We believe in looking at the whole person, not just a number.

Once approved, you can receive your funds the same day in many cases. If you submit your application with all required documents by noon, same-day funding is often possible at your local branch.

No, we are NOT a payday lender. 1st Franklin Financial has been a trusted installment loan provider since 1941. We offer personal loans with fixed rates and manageable payment plans ranging from $600 to $15,000 — not short-term payday loans.

1st Franklin Financial was founded in 1941 by Ben F. Cheek, Jr. in Toccoa, Georgia. He made his first loan — just $34 — from his law office. Today, the company is still family-owned and operated, with Ben Cheek III serving as Chairman and CEO.

No! You can pay off your loan early at any time without any prepayment penalties. We believe in giving you flexibility to manage your finances on your terms.

View All FAQs