Family-owned pawnbroker with 16+ NYC locations since 1996, offering collateral-based loans with 4% monthly rates and cash-in-hand transactions.
Editorially reviewed by Harvey Brooks
EZ Pawn Corp is a three-generation family business founded in 1996 by David Kaminsky, whose father Martin established the original Gem Pawnbrokers in Brooklyn in 1947. The company operates 16-17 conveniently located stores throughout New York City and has positioned itself as one of the fastest-growing pawnbroking chains in the region. The business maintains family involvement in operations and marketing across its locations.
EZ Pawn Corp offers pawnshop services including collateral-based loans, item appraisals, and buy/sell transactions. Their primary loan structure charges 4% per month (48% APR), though they explicitly offer Military Lending Act-compliant rates of 36% APR to active duty military personnel and their dependents. The company provides instant cash upon loan approval and maintains a loan calculator on their website for borrowers to estimate costs. Beyond lending, they buy and sell merchandise, with customer testimonials referencing jewelry appraisal, laptop sales, and merchandise selection.
The company differentiates itself through emphasis on customer service quality, community engagement, and operational professionalism. They partner with charities including the Kiss Cares Coat Drive and NYC AIDS Walk. The business has received media coverage from CBS 2 New York and The New York Times highlighting their approach to community service and alternative lending. Customer reviews consistently praise friendly staff, fair pricing, professional operations, and knowledgeable loan officers. The website features an "About" section detailing three generations of family involvement and testimonials from 2017-2019.
However, the 4% monthly rate (48% APR) significantly exceeds the 36% APR cap mandated by the Military Lending Act for all consumers under federal law in many contexts. The website disclaims that advertised fees do not include storage, handling, and late fees, suggesting total costs may exceed estimates. As a pawnshop, this service requires surrendering personal property as collateral, creating risk of item loss if loans cannot be repaid.
Yes. EZ Pawn Corp is a registered company headquartered in 511 W 181st St, New York, NY 10033. They hold a NR rating with the Better Business Bureau.
CreditDoc Diagnosis
EZ Pawn Corp is best suited for consumers who need immediate cash without credit qualification and have valuable collateral they're willing to surrender. The primary caveat is the 48% APR standard rate, which exceeds federal lending caps applicable to most borrowers and creates significant repayment risk—the company clearly profits from loan defaults where collateral is forfeited rather than redeemed.
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