EZ Pawn Corp is a family-owned pawnbroker with 17 NYC locations offering collateral-based loans and buy/sell services since 1996.
Editorially reviewed by Harvey Brooks
EZ Pawn Corp was established in 1996 by David Kaminsky, continuing a three-generation pawnbroking legacy that began with his father Martin Kaminsky's founding of Gem Pawnbrokers in Brooklyn in 1947. The company operates as a family business that has grown into one of the fastest-expanding pawn broking chains in New York City, maintaining its emphasis on integrity and community service while modernizing its operations.
The company offers pawn loans secured by items of value, with advertised rates of 4% per month. Customers can bring personal items for appraisal by trained loan officers, receive a loan agreement, and walk away with cash in hand. EZ Pawn Corp also operates a buy/sell retail model where customers can purchase pre-owned items and sell personal goods. The website includes a loan calculator showing examples (e.g., $100 borrowed for 1 month costs $116 total with $16 in interest and fees). They specifically note compliance with the Military Lending Act, offering 36% APR to active duty service members and their dependents.
EZ Pawn Corp distinguishes itself through family ownership continuity, multi-generational expertise in watch repair and jewelry appraisal, and an explicit commitment to community giving through partnerships with organizations like the Kiss Cares Coat Drive and NYC AIDS Walk. The company emphasizes friendly customer service and professional store operations across its 17 locations. Media coverage from CBS 2 New York and The New York Times highlights their positioning as a reliable lending option for short-term "bridge" loans, while also functioning as a discount retail destination.
As a pawn shop, EZ Pawn Corp serves customers needing immediate cash liquidity in exchange for collateral, which carries inherent risks including potential loss of personal items. While customer testimonials praise their service and pricing, pawn lending typically involves higher costs than traditional credit. The company's stated loan rates and fee structures should be carefully evaluated against individual financial circumstances and alternatives.
Yes. EZ Pawn Corp is a registered company headquartered in 25-04 Queens Plaza S, Long Island City, NY 11101. They hold a NR rating with the Better Business Bureau.
CreditDoc Diagnosis
EZ Pawn Corp is best suited for NYC residents experiencing immediate cash shortfalls who possess items of value they can temporarily forfeit as collateral. The primary caveat is that pawn lending carries significantly higher costs than traditional credit and creates risk of permanent loss of personal property if loans cannot be repaid; consumers should exhaust other options (emergency funds, 0% credit cards, credit union loans) before using pawn services.
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Family-owned pawnbroker with 17 NYC locations since 1996, offering collateral-based loans, item appraisals, and buy/sell services with same-day cash payouts.
Best for: NYC residents needing immediate cash urgently who own valuable items (jewelry, electronics, watches), Individuals seeking quick bridge loans between paychecks without credit checks or approval delays
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