FAQ - Chicago Super Pawn

Have questions? We have answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

If we can’t answer you question below – feel free to give us a call!

How do you determine an item’s worth?

We base pawn loan amounts on the value of your item—its current appraised value, its current condition and our ability to sell the item. We use all the research tools we have at our disposal to determine an item’s value and get you the most money we can.

The appraisal process varies depending on the type of item—for example, jewelry is evaluated differently than a DVD player. We research and review items to ensure that our pawn loan values are in line with the general marketplace for pre-owned merchandise. To obtain the item’s retail value when it was new, its pre-owned market value, and how to determine its condition.

How do you determine the condition of an item?

The condition of an item is always taken into account during the appraisal process for a pawn loan. If one 32-inch television comes in that is in perfect condition and one 32-inch television comes in with a crack in the case, we will loan more on the TV that’s in better condition.

When it’s general merchandise you want to pawn, we test each item to ensure it is in good working condition. This includes, but is not limited to, a visual inspection, plugging an item in and turning it on, and noting if any necessary accessories (such as remote controls) and manuals are included. The better the condition of your item, the more money we can loan you. This is true for any collateral.

How do you determine the value of jewelry?

When jewelry is the collateral for a pawn loan, we test the precious metals and diamonds to determine its worth.

The diamond testing includes a visual inspection using a jeweler’s loupe, weighing the item, sizing (determining carat weight) any stones, and noting the cut/color/clarity of each—you may know this as the 4 Cs.

In addition, we test the metal using a special acid that determines the karat of gold. This is done to ensure a clean test so there are no false readings on your item that may detract from what we can loan you.

How do you determine the price of gold?

The price of gold is based on market values, the price for which is routinely reviewed and updated. Prices can vary greatly as the loan amount for 24K gold is significantly higher than that of 14K gold.

Is my collateral safe while in pawn?

While your item is in pawn, you still own it. It is our responsibility to keep it safe and in good condition while it’s in our care. When you give us an item for pawn, we keep all accessories (remote controls, cables, etc.) with your item and place it in a secure area. Your item is safely stored here until you come back to pay your pawn loan in full and claim your merchandise.

Can you give a quote on an item over the phone?

Unfortunately, we cannot give quotes over the phone because loan amounts vary greatly depending on the condition of an item. For general merchandise, we test each item to ensure it is in good working condition. This includes, but is not limited to, a visual inspection, plugging an item in and turning it on, and noting if any necessary accessories and manuals are included. The better the condition of your item, the more money we can loan. And for jewelry, we test to ensure diamonds and gold are genuine. This testing includes a visual inspection using a jeweler’s loupe, weighing the item, sizing (determining carat weight) any diamonds, and noting the cut/color/clarity of each—you may know this as the 4 Cs. In addition, we test the metal using a special acid that determines the karat of gold.

How does a pawn loan work?

Pawn loans are a quick and easy way to borrow money without a credit check or hassle. Loans are based on the value of your collateral, not your credit rating or pay schedule. A typical pawn loan may have a term length of 30 days/one month, plus a 30-day/one month grace period. If you cannot pay back your pawn loan in full, including any applicable grace period, we offer extensions/renewals to give you extra time. You may also choose to surrender your collateral as payment in full.

We provide pawn loans on a variety of items, including gold and diamond jewelry, electronics, musical instruments, tools, and more. Simply bring us an item of value, along with a valid photo ID and we’ll get you money in minutes after your loan is approved.

What is an extension?

If you are unable to pay back your pawn loan in full on its due date, you may be able to get an extension on your pawn loan. With an extension, you will be required to pay a portion of the interest owed, and then you may extend the length of your pawn loan for as many days as allowed.What is a renewal?

If you are unable to pay back your pawn loan in full on its due date, you may get a renewal. With a renewal, you pay the interest that has accrued on your pawn loan in full, and a new pawn loan is written. The principal pawn loan amount remains the same, as does the interest rate, but the due date is reset for the full loan term.

Will I lose my merchandise?

The majority of our customers repay their pawn loans and pick up their merchandise. If a customer chooses not to repay the pawn loan, the merchandise/collateral for the loan is forfeited. We make every effort to notify you when your payments are due with text messaging and emails.

We will also purchase items of value if you do not want to get a pawn loan.