Mr Payroll

Check-Cashing · Texas

Rating: 2.2/5

Mr Payroll logo

Mr. Payroll operates 84 franchise check-cashing locations nationwide, primarily in convenience stores and gas stations, offering check cashing, bill payments, money transfers, and prepaid debit cards.

Official Website

http://www.mrpayroll.com/

Mr Payroll Review

Mr. Payroll was established in 1988 in Amarillo, Texas, as a response to consumers who lacked access to traditional banking services. The company created a straightforward solution: low-cost, hassle-free check cashing on payday. In 1989, Mr. Payroll opened its first test model inside a convenience store, proving the viability of the compact 48-square-foot format. This success led to franchise expansion across the southwestern United States, and the company has been part of the Cash America family of companies since 1994.

Today, Mr. Payroll operates through approximately 41 franchisees managing 84 locations across the country. As of March 31, 2015, the company offers check cashing, bill payments, money orders, money transfers, and prepaid debit card services. The franchise model allows Mr. Payroll to embed financial services in retail environments—convenience stores, gas stations, and neighborhood service centers—making access convenient for consumers without traditional bank accounts. Service availability varies by location.

Mr. Payroll distinguishes itself through its franchise philosophy of "You are in business for yourself, not by yourself," emphasizing close collaboration with franchise owners and operators. The company has been recognized as a TOP 500 Franchisee by Entrepreneur magazine from 2010 to 2013. Mr. Payroll maintains membership in the National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS), Financial Service Centers of America, Inc., and the International Franchise Association, signaling alignment with industry standards.

As a non-bank financial services provider, Mr. Payroll fills a genuine gap for unbanked and underbanked consumers. However, check-cashing services typically carry transaction fees that exceed what traditional banks charge.

The franchise model means service quality and availability depend on individual franchise operators, creating inconsistency across locations. Additionally, as an affiliate of Cash America International (a major pawn and payday lender), Mr. Payroll operates within a broader financial services ecosystem focused on alternative lending rather than helping consumers transition to mainstream banking.

Pros & Cons

Reader-focused summary of the strongest reasons to consider Mr Payroll and the factors most worth weighing before contracting. Individual outcomes depend on your credit situation and goals.

Pros

  • ✓Operates 84 locations in convenient retail environments (convenience stores, gas stations) requiring minimal space
  • ✓Established since 1988 with 26+ years of operational history in check-cashing services
  • ✓Part of Cash America International, a major financial services company with NYSE listing (ticker CSH)
  • ✓Recognized as TOP 500 Franchisee by Entrepreneur magazine for 4 consecutive years (2010-2013)
  • ✓Member of three industry associations: NACS, Financial Service Centers of America, and International Franchise Association
  • ✓Offers multiple complementary services beyond check cashing: bill payments, money transfers, money orders, and prepaid debit cards
  • ✓Compact franchise format (48 sq ft) allows placement in high-traffic retail locations for consumer accessibility

Areas to Consider

  • !Check-cashing services typically charge per-transaction fees that are more expensive than traditional bank checking accounts
  • !Service availability varies significantly by location, with not all services offered at every franchise
  • !As a franchise model, service quality and customer experience are inconsistent depending on individual franchise operator
  • !Affiliated with Cash America's payday lending and pawn operations, positioning Mr. Payroll within alternative lending ecosystem rather than mainstream banking
  • !Limited information provided on fee structures, making cost comparison difficult for consumers

Verdict Summary

Mr Payroll works best for consumers who value operates 84 locations in convenient retail environments (convenience stores, gas and can accept the tradeoff of check-cashing services typically charge per-transaction fees that are more expen. Compare against similar providers below before signing any contract.

Services & Features

Services offered

Feature Checklist

✗Credit Monitoring
✗All Three Bureaus
✗Goodwill Letters
✗Cease Desist Letters
✗Debt Validation
✗Credit Education
✗Identity Theft Protection
✗Score Tracking
✗Mobile App
✗Online Portal
✗Personal Advisor
✗Ai Powered

Best For

Before You Contact Mr Payroll

Before signing up with any Check Cashing provider, review these safeguards:

Compare Your Needs With Mr Payroll

Match these decision factors against Mr Payroll's profile before committing. This rubric mirrors what independent consumer-finance research typically checks for Check Cashing providers.

Category

Check Cashing

Service scope

9 services listed

Geographic coverage

1 states

Match to your priorities

  • ●
    Budget priority: Pricing published above — factor in setup, monthly, and cancellation fees over the full expected service window.
  • ●
    Complexity priority: Consider Mr Payroll's stated strengths (Operates 84 locations in convenient retail environments (convenience stores, gas stations) requir...) against your specific credit situation.
  • ●
    Timeline priority: Check Cashing typically takes 3-6 months for meaningful outcomes. Providers guaranteeing overnight results are red flags under federal consumer protection law.
  • ●
    Recourse priority: Confirm state licensing via your state regulator and check the CFPB complaint database before contracting.
  • ●
    Alternatives: Compare against all Check Cashing providers, DIY options via non-profit counseling agencies, and free CFPB resources.

Pricing

  • Monthly Price: 0
  • Setup Fee: 0
  • Money Back Guarantee: False
  • Guarantee Details:
  • Free Consultation: True
  • Tiers: []
  • Currency: USD

Frequently Asked Questions

What services does Mr Payroll offer?

Mr Payroll offers 9 services including Check cashing, Bill payments, Money transfers, Money orders, Prepaid debit cards, and 4 more. Confirm current service list directly with the provider before contracting.

Who is Mr Payroll best suited for?

Mr Payroll's profile signals suggest it may fit: Unbanked and underbanked consumers who need immediate check-cashing access on payday; Individuals without access to traditional checking accounts seeking convenient bill payment services; Consumers in areas with limited banking infrastructure who rely on retail-based financial services; People needing occasional money transfer or money order services in convenient locations. Individual outcomes vary based on your specific situation.

What are the strengths and weaknesses of Mr Payroll?

Key strengths: Operates 84 locations in convenient retail environments (convenience stores, gas stations) requiring minimal space; Established since 1988 with 26+ years of operational history in check-cashing services; Part of Cash America International, a major financial services company with NYSE listing (ticker CSH). Areas to consider: Check-cashing services typically charge per-transaction fees that are more expensive than traditional bank checking accounts; Service availability varies significantly by location, with not all services offered at every franchise.

How does Mr Payroll compare to similar companies?

In the Check Cashing category, comparable providers include AAA CHECK CASHING, California Check Cashing Stores, Cash 4 Less. Each company has different strengths, so compare services, pricing, and consumer complaint records before deciding what to do next.

Where does Mr Payroll operate?

Mr Payroll serves customers in 1 states including Texas. Confirm current service availability in your state directly with the provider.

How much does Mr Payroll cost?

Listed pricing for Mr Payroll: monthly price: 0; setup fee: 0; money back guarantee: False. Pricing may change — verify current fees directly with the provider before signing any contract.

Visit Mr Payroll

State Consumer Finance Context

This is state-level context for Check Cashing consumers in Texas. It does not confirm that Mr Payroll or this specific location is licensed.

State regulator: Texas Office of Consumer Credit Commissioner
Consumer protection: Texas Attorney General Consumer Protection Division

Credit and debt help rules in Texas

Key state rules to check

Payday lending in Texas: Legal

Usury cap: 10% for written contracts (18% default); payday/auto title loans regulated as credit access businesses

Complaint resources

State references

Texas allows payday and auto title lending through the Credit Access Business model, which lacks state-level fee caps. Several cities have enacted local ordinances to limit loan amounts and rollovers. Consumers can file complaints with the Office of Consumer Credit Commissioner or the Attorney General.

Similar Companies ⓘ

Comparable Check Cashing providers with similar service scope. Ratings reflect stored review context; verify current licensing and pricing directly before contracting.

AAA CHECK CASHING logo

AAA CHECK CASHING

AAA CHECK CASHING offers check cashing services with competitive processing fees. The company emphasizes low-cost transactions and easy money access.

Rating 2.6/5

Read review →

Notable: Claims to offer the lowest processing fees in the market for check cashing

California Check Cashing Stores logo

California Check Cashing Stores

At 2531 Mission Street in San Francisco, CA, California Check Cashing Stores offers check cashing and financial services.

Rating 2.8/5

Read review →

Notable: Multiple San Francisco locations (2531 Mission, 1098 Market, 5129 Mission) for convenient access

Cash 4 Less logo

Cash 4 Less

Family-owned check cashing service with 4 California locations offering fast processing, competitive rates, and no hidden fees for multiple check types.

Rating 2.4/5

Read review →

Notable: Four convenient California locations with extended weekday hours (until 5 PM Monday-Thursday)

CFSC the Check Cashing Place Downtown logo

CFSC the Check Cashing Place Downtown

CFSC is a check-cashing storefront offering no-account check cashing, money orders, bill pay, and prepaid debit cards at multiple San Diego locations.

Rating 2.6/5

Read review →

Notable: No bank account required for check cashing—only photo ID and personal information needed

Checkmate logo

Checkmate

Checkmate Phoenix, AZ — Checkmate offers check cashing and complete loan solutions for consumers needing quick access to cash and financial services.

Rating 2.8/5

Read review →

Notable: Offers both check cashing and loan products in one location for bundled financial services

Hunting Park Check Cashing & Auto Tags logo

Hunting Park Check Cashing & Auto Tags

Hunting Park Check Cashing & Auto Tags offers check cashing and money transfer services with convenient hours in Philadelphia's Hunting Park neighborhood.

Rating 2.8/5

Read review →

Notable: Extended weekday hours until 5:00-5:30 PM accommodate working professionals

Micro Loans NW logo

Micro Loans NW

Micro Loans NW is a Kent, Washington-based financial services provider offering payday loans, business loans, check cashing, and wire transfers since 2010.

Rating 2.6/5

Read review →

Notable: Extended business hours until 8:00 pm daily, accommodating working customers

Nikki's Check Cashing logo

Nikki's Check Cashing

Nikki's Check Cashing offers check cashing, money orders, and cash advance services in Philadelphia. Located on Bustleton Ave with extended weekday hours.

Rating 2.3/5

Read review →

Notable: Extended evening hours until 7:00 PM on Thursday and Friday

Related Questions

Quick Summary

Mr Payroll — Check Cashing in Texas.

Overall rating: 2.2/5

Mr. Payroll operates 84 franchise check-cashing locations nationwide, primarily in convenience stores and gas stations, offering check cashing, bill payments, money transfers, and prepaid debit cards.

Visit Mr Payroll

Next Steps

  1. Compare Mr Payroll against similar options above.
  2. Run our borrowing power quiz to see how Mr Payroll matches your situation.
  3. Check state regulator listings for Mr Payroll's licensing before committing.
  4. Visit Mr Payroll once you're ready.

Glossary of Terms

Common terms that come up when comparing Check Cashing providers. Full glossary at creditdoc.co/glossary/.

Amortization — Loan Amortization
The process of paying off a loan through regular payments that cover both principal and interest. Early payments are mostly interest; later payments are mostly principal.
Why it matters: Understanding amortization explains why paying extra early in a loan saves the most money — you're reducing the principal that interest is calculated on.
Example: Month 1 of a $200,000 mortgage at 6%: your $1,199 payment splits as $1,000 interest + $199 principal. By month 300: only $47 goes to interest and $1,152 goes to principal.
Balloon Payment
A large lump-sum payment due at the end of a loan, after a period of smaller monthly payments. The loan isn't fully paid off by the regular payments — the balloon settles it.
Why it matters: Balloon payments make monthly payments look affordable but create a financial cliff. If you can't pay or refinance at the end, you could lose your home or asset.
Example: A 5-year balloon mortgage on $200,000: you pay $1,054/month (as if it were a 30-year loan), but after 5 years you owe a balloon of $186,108 all at once.
Collateral — Loan Collateral
An asset you pledge to the lender as security for a loan. If you stop paying, the lender can seize and sell that asset to recover their money.
Why it matters: Secured loans (with collateral) have lower interest rates because the lender has less risk. But you could lose your home, car, or savings if you default.
Example: A mortgage uses your house as collateral. A car loan uses your vehicle. A title loan uses your car title. If you miss payments, the lender can foreclose or repossess.
Cosigner — Loan Cosigner
A person who agrees to repay your loan if you can't. They're equally responsible for the debt, and their credit is affected by your payment behavior.
Why it matters: Cosigning helps people with thin credit get approved or get better rates. But it's a huge risk for the cosigner — they're on the hook for the full amount if you default.
Example: A parent cosigns their child's $30,000 student loan. The child stops paying after 6 months. The parent is now legally required to make the payments or face collections, lawsuits, and credit damage.
Credit Bureau — Credit Reporting Agency (Bureau)
A company that collects and sells information about your credit history. The three major bureaus are Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
Why it matters: Not all lenders report to all three bureaus, so your reports may differ. You should check all three reports because an error on one could be costing you money.
Example: Your car loan only reports to Equifax and TransUnion. Your Experian report doesn't show that good payment history, so your Experian score is 15 points lower.
Credit Freeze — Security Freeze / Credit Freeze
A free tool that locks your credit report so no one (including you) can open new accounts until you lift it. It's the strongest protection against identity theft.
Why it matters: A credit freeze prevents criminals from opening loans in your name, even if they have your Social Security number. It's free by law and doesn't affect your credit score.
Example: Your data was in a breach. You freeze your credit at all 3 bureaus (takes 10 minutes online). A thief tries to open a credit card in your name — denied because the lender can't pull your frozen report.
Credit Mix — Credit Mix (Types of Credit)
The variety of credit accounts you have — credit cards (revolving), auto loans (installment), mortgage, student loans, etc. Having multiple types shows you can manage different kinds of debt.
Why it matters: Credit mix accounts for about 10% of your FICO score. Having only credit cards isn't as strong as having a card, an installment loan, and a mortgage.
Example: Borrower A has 3 credit cards. Borrower B has 2 credit cards, a car loan, and a student loan. Even with the same payment history and utilization, Borrower B's score is typically higher.
Credit Report — Consumer Credit Report
A detailed record of your borrowing history maintained by credit bureaus. It lists every loan, credit card, payment history, collection, and public record tied to your name.
Why it matters: Errors on credit reports are common — 1 in 5 consumers has at least one mistake. Checking your report regularly is the first step to fixing errors that are costing you money.
Example: You pull your free report from AnnualCreditReport.com and find a $2,400 medical collection you already paid. You dispute it, the bureau verifies it's resolved, and your score goes up 40 points.
Credit Score
A 3-digit number (300-850) that summarizes how reliably you've handled borrowed money. Higher scores mean lower risk to lenders and better loan terms for you.
Why it matters: Your credit score determines whether you get approved and at what rate. A 100-point difference can mean thousands of dollars more or less in interest over a loan's life.
Example: On a $250,000 30-year mortgage: a 760 score gets you 6.2% ($1,536/month). A 660 score gets 7.4% ($1,729/month). Over 30 years, the lower score costs you $69,480 more.
Credit Utilization — Credit Utilization Ratio
The percentage of your available credit that you're currently using. If you have $10,000 in credit limits and owe $3,000, your utilization is 30%.
Why it matters: Utilization is the second-biggest factor in your credit score (after payment history). Keeping it below 30% helps your score; below 10% is ideal.
Example: You have 3 cards with a $15,000 total limit. You're carrying $4,500 in balances (30% utilization). Paying down to $1,500 (10% utilization) could boost your score by 20-50 points.
Default — Loan Default
When you fail to repay a loan according to the agreed terms — usually after 90-180 days of missed payments. It's the point where the lender gives up on collecting normally.
Why it matters: Default triggers severe consequences: credit score drops 100+ points, the debt may be sent to collections, you could be sued, and your wages or assets could be seized.
Example: You miss 4 consecutive car payments. The lender declares your loan in default, repossesses your car, sells it at auction for $8,000, and you still owe the remaining $5,000 (called a deficiency balance).
FICO Score — Fair Isaac Corporation Score
The most widely used credit scoring model, created by Fair Isaac Corporation. 90% of top lenders use FICO scores for lending decisions.
Why it matters: FICO has many versions (FICO 8, 9, 10). Mortgage lenders still use older versions (FICO 2, 4, 5), so your mortgage score may differ from what free apps show you.
Example: Your FICO 8 score (used for credit cards) is 740. Your FICO 5 score (used for mortgages) is 725 because it weighs collections differently. Same credit history, different scores.
Hard Inquiry — Hard Credit Inquiry (Hard Pull)
When a lender checks your credit report because you've applied for credit. Each hard inquiry can lower your score by 5-10 points and stays on your report for 2 years.
Why it matters: Multiple hard inquiries in a short period suggest you're desperately seeking credit, which is a red flag. Exception: mortgage and auto loan shopping within 14-45 days counts as one inquiry.
Example: You apply for 5 credit cards in one month. Each application triggers a hard inquiry. Your score drops 25-50 points from the inquiries alone, making each subsequent application harder.
Loan Term (Tenor) — Loan Term / Tenor
How long you have to repay the loan, measured in months or years. A shorter term means higher monthly payments but less total interest paid.
Why it matters: Longer terms feel more affordable monthly but cost much more overall. A 30-year mortgage costs almost double in interest compared to a 15-year mortgage on the same amount.
Example: Borrowing $200,000 at 6.5%: A 15-year term costs $1,742/month ($113,561 total interest). A 30-year term costs $1,264/month ($255,088 total interest). You save $141,527 with the shorter term.
Origination Fee — Loan Origination Fee
A one-time fee the lender charges to process and set up your loan. It covers their costs for underwriting, verifying your information, and preparing paperwork.
Why it matters: Origination fees are usually 1-8% of the loan amount and are often deducted from your loan proceeds — so you receive less than you borrowed.
Example: You're approved for a $10,000 personal loan with a 5% origination fee. The lender deducts $500 upfront, so you receive $9,500 in your bank account but owe $10,000 plus interest.