by Alexandria D.
When unexpected expenses come up – like a sudden car repair that threatens your ability to get to work or a plumbing issue at home – having quick access to cash is key. Financial service businesses, such as ACE Cash Express, offer a range of online loan options designed to help in these situations. As long as you have access to the internet, you can explore your loan options and apply for an online loan simply and conveniently.
What is an Online Loan?
An online loan is a type of personal loan for which you can apply through a lender’s website instead of going to a physical location. Online loans may include personal loans, cash advances, or short-term loans, depending on the lender. Applying for a loan online is often faster and more convenient than traditional methods.
The online loan application process typically requires personal, financial, and income information. Lenders usually provide details about available loan amounts, loan terms, and the application process on their websites, along with FAQs or customer support to help borrowers.
If your application is approved, you may have several ways to receive your funds. Funding timelines vary by lender, and funds may be available as soon as the same day or by the next business day.
How Online Loans Work
Online loans are designed to provide short-term financial assistance quickly and conveniently. To apply for an online loan, you may need:
- An email address and phone number
- Proof of a steady source of income, such as employment, retirement, disability, or other approved sources
- Social Security number or tax ID
- Valid bank account information
Once you apply, most lenders provide a quick decision. If approved, you can access your funds using the methods offered by the lender.
What Types of Online Loans Are Available at ACE?
ACE Cash Express offers several short-term loan options online, including installment loans and payday loans. Availability varies by state, and not all loan products are offered in every location. Loan amounts are determined based on state regulations, the applicant’s income, and ACE’s standard underwriting criteria.1
Installment Loans
Installment loans are short-term personal loans that a borrower repays in scheduled payments (installments) that are substantially equal in amount and repaid over a specified length of time.1 Borrowers approved for an installment loan at ACE pay back the principal (amount of the loan) and any additional interest or fees according to the loan terms.
Payday Loans
A payday loan is a short-term, small-dollar loan intended to help manage expenses until a borrower’s next paycheck. If approved, the loan is typically repaid in full on the borrower’s next payday.1
How to Apply for an Online Loan at ACE
To apply for an online loan at ACE, begin by selecting the type of personal loan that best meets your needs: a payday loan or an installment loan. Next, fill out the online application with the required information and get a quick decision. You must be 18-years or older to apply for an online loan at ACE.
Loans at ACE come with a 72-hour satisfaction guarantee. So if you change your mind, just return the principal within 72 hours and pay nothing more. ACE does not charge a fee to apply. In Florida and Louisiana, you have until close of business on the third business day after receiving your funds to return the principal and pay nothing more. For example, if you take out a loan on Monday, you have until close of business on Thursday to cancel your loan.If you are approved for a loan online, ACE may offer different ways to receive your funds:
- Instant Funding to a Debit Card: ACE’s Instant Funding to a debit card is our quickest way to receive your funds, if you are eligible.2
- Direct Deposit to a Bank Account: Get your funds direct deposited into your bank account the next business day.3
- Cash at an ACE Store: If you are eligible, visit a local ACE store to get same-day cash pick-up.1
When You Should & Shouldn’t Take Out an Online Loan
Online personal loans may be a useful option for covering certain short-term financial needs, such as unexpected expenses or important one-time purchases. However, they are not appropriate for every situation, and consumers should carefully consider their circumstances before applying.
Here are some instances where it might make sense to apply for an online loan:
- Paying for Unexpected Expenses: This is probably the most common reason to take out an online loan. Some unexpected expenses might include: car accidents, family emergencies, household repairs, vet bills, moving, dental emergencies, or vehicle repairs.
- Making a Large, One-Time Purchase: A big expense that’s also important, like an A/C unit for your home, may be a good reason to consider a personal loan.
- Paying Bills Before Your Next Payday: An online payday loan could be a good option for paying unexpectedly high bills that are due before you get paid again. Payday loans are designed to help you pay for urgent expenses, and the full loan balance is typically due on your next payday.
Some instances where it doesn’t make sense to apply for an online loan:
- Paying for ‘nice to have’ expenses: If the expense is non-urgent or discretionary (vacation, luxury purchase, entertainment), or something you could cover by waiting, saving, or budgeting.
- You’re trying to fix a long-term financial issue: Online loans generally aren’t meant for chronic budget shortfalls, long-term debt consolidation without a plan, or ongoing medical or living expenses.
- You’re trying to improve your credit profile: Some online loans don’t report positive payment history, may involve hard inquiries, or can lower your credit score if mismanaged.
ACE Online Loan FAQs
Can I get a same-day cash loan at ACE?
If you are approved for an online loan, you may be eligible for instant funding2 or you may be eligible to visit a local ACE store for same-day cash pickup.1 ACE is committed to helping you get the cash you need as quickly as possible.
Can I apply for an online loan at ACE if I am retired?
Yes. However, you must have proof of a steady source of recurring income.
Does ACE offer online loans in my state?
ACE offers payday loans and installment loans in select states. Below is a list of the states and amounts offered for each loan type.
Installment Loans Online
Payday Loans Online
- California: $100 - $255
- Idaho: $100 - $1,000
- Kansas: $100 - $500
- Louisiana: $100 - $700
- Tennessee: $100 - $425
- Texas: $100 - $2,000
Will applying online for a loan at ACE hurt my credit?
ACE may obtain information from a non-traditional consumer reporting agency and the inquiry may affect your overall credit profile with the applicable agency, but it will not impact your FICO® Score.
Is there any cost to apply for an online loan at ACE?
No. You will not be charged to apply for an online loan at ACE, whether or not you are approved.
Is my personal information safe?
ACE values your privacy and internet safety. Click here to read our privacy policy and online privacy policy. For California residents, see our California Privacy Policy to learn what personal information we collect and how it is used.
This blog is not intended to provide any tax, legal, financial planning, insurance, accounting, investment, or any other kind of professional advice or services. To make sure that any information or suggestions in this blog fit your particular circumstances, you should consult with an appropriate tax or legal professional before taking action based on any suggestions or information that we provide.
Sources:
Batford, Emily, et al. “How do Online Loans Work?” Experian, 29 Oct 2025, https://www.experian.com/blogs/ask-experian/how-do-online-loans-work/
Webber, Matt. “Instant Personal Loans: Access Same-Day funds Quickly.” Investopedia, 15 Oct 2025, https://www.investopedia.com/instant-personal-loans-how-fast-can-you-get-funds-7963254
Disclaimers:
Applying will not affect your FICO® Score. ACE Cash Express may obtain information from a non-traditional consumer reporting agency and the inquiry may affect your overall credit profile with the applicable agency, but it will not impact your FICO Score.
1. All loans subject to approval pursuant to standard underwriting criteria. Rates and terms will vary depending upon the state where you reside. Not all consumers will qualify for a loan or for the maximum loan amount. Terms and conditions apply. Loans should be used for short-term financial needs only, and not as a long-term solution. Customers with credit difficulties should seek credit counseling. Populus Financial Group, Inc. is licensed by the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation pursuant to Financial Code Section 23005(a) of the California Deferred Deposit Transaction Law. Populus Financial Group, Inc., 300 E. John Carpenter Fwy, Ste. 900, Irving, Texas, 75062, ST.760164.000. Loans in Texas arranged by ACE Credit Access LLC and made by, and subject to the approval of, an unaffiliated third-party lender. Populus Financial Group, Inc. is licensed by the Virginia State Corporation Commission, PL-115.
2. If you are approved for the instant funding option and you select that option, your loan proceeds may be available within 30 minutes of loan approval and verification, or funding could take up to 4 hours. Funding times vary based on your bank.
3. If approved by 6 p.m. CT on Monday - Friday for weekday applications, and by 2 p.m. CT on Sunday for weekend applications, you will generally receive the funds the next business day. On banking holidays, your funds will be delayed until the next banking business day. For example, if Monday is a banking holiday, then you will not receive your funds until Tuesday.
Our credit or credit services decision on your application may be based in whole or in part on information obtained from a consumer reporting agency, including, but not limited to, Clarity Services, Inc., FactorTrust, Inc., and/or LexisNexis. The inquiry may affect your overall credit profile with the applicable agency, but it will not impact your FICO Score.
