Frequently Asked Questions
- Is JFLA accredited?
JFLA is a 501C3 non-profit registered with the IRS since 1904 and listed on Guidestar, Charity Navigator, and Great Nonprofits.
- Who can borrow from JFLA?
Borrowers from LA, Ventura, and Santa Barbara counties can qualify for all kinds of loans. If you do not see what you are looking for, ask us.
- Does JFLA report to credit bureaus?
JFLA does not report to credit bureaus.
- How do I repay my loan?
Direct deposit and auto-deduction make loans and make monthly loan repayments easy. Download the Auto Deduction form here.
- What type of loans are not allowed?
JFLA does not make loans for taxes, travel expense for leisure, student loan debt, and some legal fees.
- What does the "Free" in Free Loans mean?
Free means that there are no service or interest costs associated with your loan. Pay back exactly what you borrow.
- What is a guarantor?
Guarantors, instead of fees, gives JFLA the assurance of re-payment. A guarantor is a person who agrees to pay back the loan if you are unable to.
A guarantor is at least 25 years old, a resident of the US, has a steady income and has a credit score of 620+. A guarantor cannot be a current borrower or guarantor on an active JFLA loan
A guarantor will need to provide a current state issued ID, proof of current income and credit will be run
If married, the spouse of the guarantor will need to sign all legal loan documents and provide a current state issued ID and proof of income
We thank all guarantors for assisting JFLA in the power of offering Interest free lending
- Can I get a loan without a guarantor?
No. If you do not have a guarantor, you do not qualify for a loan from JFLA. JFLA cannot process a loan without a guarantor.
- What kind of housing loans do you offer?
Loans for housing include rent, back-rent, security deposits, first and last months' deposits, moving costs, and Sections 8 needs.
- What identification do I need?
Be prepared to upload identification and documents to support your loan application: California ID, SSN, and proof of need. Your guarantor will also need to upload documents.
- What is the most I can borrow?
Our loans range from $1,000 to $12,000 for personal and emergency loans. We make fertility loans up to $20,000 and business loans up to $25,000. See our Loan Table for details.
- How often do I repay my loan?
Clients, or borrowers, make monthly payments to repay their loans in in 24-36 months.
- What is the loan process?
There are five basic steps to the JFLA loan process:
- Choose a loan and see if you are eligible;
- Identify a guarantor;
- Fill out the pre-loan application on line by clicking Apply Now;
- A member of our team will reach out to you for next steps and to set up a virtual interview;
- Upload all required documents and wait for loan approval.
- What if I need help or have a question?
The loan process raises many questions. Email us at info@jfla.org to ask yours.
- Can I renew a loan?
Only student loans can be renewed. This is limited to one time per year.
- Do I have to come in to sign loan documents?
Since March 2020, JFLA offers DocuSign to sign electronically on different devices no matter where you are.
- What are the loan terms?
The terms of the loan are simple: Repayment starts 30-45 days after the funds are deposited into your bank account, and that you pay back exactly what you borrow. For more details, please consult a member of the JFLA team. Loans must be paid back in 24-36 months.
- How are interviews conducted?
A member of our team will contact you to schedule a virtual interview after your pre-loan, on-line application is received.
- What does Zero Interest mean?
Zero interest is another way of saying interest-free. Zero is also the amount you will pay in fees to get your loan at JFLA.
- Can I use my loan to pay taxes?
No. JFLA does not make loans to pay current or back taxes.
Some helpful terms
Jewish
The “Jewish” in Jewish Free Loan refers to a foundational idea in the bible that the charging of interest on a loan to a person in need, is not in his or her best interest and is therefore, prohibited. JFLA applies the wisdom of that idea to all its clients, regardless of their religion, ethnicity, race, ability, gender, etc.
Keep
Keep more of your own money by working with an interest-free non-profit lender like JFLA.
Need
Please be prepared to demonstrate your need for a loan with a bill, a receipt, or other document.
Opportunity
Opportunity to borrow, without going further into debt by having to pay high interest fees, is what JFLA offers.
Unique
JFLA is as a unique nonprofit, offering cash in hand to people who cannot get a traditional loan.
Website
Apply, donate, and find answers to your questions on the JFLA website, jfla.org
X
X marks the spot for your eSignature. We use DocuSign for all signatures.
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