EZ Pawn Corp logo

EZ Pawn Corp

3.9/5

Family-owned pawnbroker chain operating 17 locations across New York City since 1996, offering collateral-based loans and buy/sell services for jewelry, electronics, and valuables.

Editorially reviewed by Harvey Brooks

Free to Use BBB: NR Free Consultation Visit Website

EZ Pawn Corp Review

EZ Pawn Corp is a third-generation pawnbroking business founded in 1996 by David Kaminsky, whose grandfather Martin established Gem Pawnbrokers in Brooklyn in 1947. The company traces its roots to post-WWII New York and has expanded to 17 conveniently located stores throughout New York City. The business maintains family operational control and emphasizes the continuity of expertise passed down across three generations of pawnbroking experience.

EZ Pawn Corp offers core pawnshop services including collateral-based loans where customers bring items of value for appraisal and immediate cash disbursement. The company advertises a loan rate of 4% per month, with a loan calculator showing example fees. They also operate a buy/sell retail operation for jewelry, electronics, and other merchandise. The company explicitly notes it serves those in Active Duty military and their dependents under the Military Lending Act at 36% APR. Customers can receive same-day cash loans without credit checks, typical of pawn operations.

EZ Pawn Corp distinguishes itself through emphasis on customer service quality, trained loan officers for appraisals, professional store operations, and community involvement. The company partners with charities including Kiss Cares Coat Drive and NYC AIDS Walk. They have received media coverage from CBS 2 New York and The New York Times, positioning themselves as a growing alternative to traditional lending. Leadership actively discusses serving customers seeking short-term bridge loans and bargain retail shopping.

Prospective customers should understand that pawnshop loans are secured by personal property, require item surrender, and carry monthly interest rates substantially higher than traditional credit (4% monthly equals 48% APR). The website discloses that fees are subject to change and exclude storage, handling, and potential late fees. Like all pawn operations, this is a collateral-based lending model with redemption requirements, not unsecured personal credit.

Services & Features

Pawn loans—collateral-based short-term loans against personal items
Item appraisal by trained loan officers
Immediate cash disbursement in-store (same-day)
Loan agreements and documentation
Buy/sell services for jewelry, electronics, and valuables
Retail shopping for pre-owned merchandise at discounted prices
Loan calculator for cost estimation
Military lending under Military Lending Act (36% APR for active duty and dependents)
In-store customer service and consultation
Multi-location access across NYC

Feature Checklist

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

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Immediate same-day cash without credit checks or background verification
  • Three generations of family expertise in pawnbroking and valuations since 1947
  • 17 conveniently located stores across New York City for accessibility
  • Military Lending Act compliance offering 36% APR to active duty service members
  • Transparent loan calculator on website showing estimated costs upfront
  • Retail buy/sell option in addition to pawning—customers can sell items outright
  • Professional appraisers and trained loan officers (verified in customer testimonials)
  • Active community involvement with charitable partnerships

Cons

  • Monthly interest rate of 4% (48% APR) is substantially higher than traditional personal loans or credit cards
  • Customers lose possession of their item during the loan period with redemption deadline requirements
  • Website notes fees are subject to change and exclude storage, handling, and late fees—total cost unclear
  • Collateral-based model means inability to reclaim item if loan terms are not met
  • Limited to New York City locations despite being marketed as a growing chain

Rating Breakdown

Value
5.0
Effectiveness
3.5
Customer Service
3.7
Transparency
3.5
Ease of Use
3.9

Frequently Asked Questions

Is EZ Pawn Corp legitimate?

Yes. EZ Pawn Corp is a registered company headquartered in 1878 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10035. They hold a NR rating with the Better Business Bureau.

Quick Facts

Headquarters
1878 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10035
BBB Rating
NR
BBB Accredited
No
Starting Price
Free to Use
Setup Fee
None
Free Consultation
Yes
Money-Back Guarantee
No
Visit EZ Pawn Corp

CreditDoc Diagnosis

Doctor's Verdict on EZ Pawn Corp

EZ Pawn Corp is best for consumers in genuine financial emergencies who have valuable collateral and can repay within weeks, not months or years. The critical caveat is that 4% monthly interest (48% APR) makes this an expensive borrowing option compared to personal loans, credit cards, or credit union PALs—use only when speed and lack of credit review are essential, and understand that failure to reclaim the item forfeits your collateral permanently.

Best For

  • Consumers needing immediate cash ($100-$1000+) within hours without credit evaluation
  • Individuals with valuable items (jewelry, electronics, watches) willing to use them as collateral for short-term bridge loans
  • People in financial emergencies who can secure reliable repayment within weeks or months
  • Active duty military members who qualify for the 36% APR Military Lending Act provision
Updated 2026-03-21

More Lenders in New York

AAFE Community Development Fund logo

AAFE Community Development Fund

AAFE Community Development Fund is a HUD-certified housing counselor and CDFI offering free homebuyer education, down payment assistance loans, and homeowner repair financing for low- to moderate-income New Yorkers.

4.0/5
Contact BBB: NR

Best for: First-time homebuyers in NYC with low-to-moderate income seeking education and down payment help, Asian American and immigrant communities in NY seeking bilingual housing counseling

Bank of America Financial Center logo

Bank of America Financial Center

Bank of America's Kensington branch in Philadelphia offers full-service banking, walk-up ATM, notary, commercial deposits, and appointment-based specialist advice.

4.0/5
Contact BBB: NR

Best for: Existing Bank of America customers in the Kensington and North Philadelphia area, Small business owners needing commercial deposit services or business banking advice

Bank of America Financial Center logo

Bank of America Financial Center

Bank of America Financial Center in Philadelphia's Kensington neighborhood offering full-service banking, financial advice, and walk-up ATM access with extended Saturday hours.

4.0/5
Contact BBB: NR

Best for: Customers seeking comprehensive personal and business banking with professional financial guidance, Philadelphia residents needing multilingual banking support in non-English languages

Financial Wellness Guides

Affiliate Disclosure: CreditDoc may earn a commission when you click links to EZ Pawn Corp and other services. These commissions help us maintain our free research. Our editorial team independently evaluates all services. Compensation does not influence our ratings or rankings. Learn more.