About 1st Franklin Financial · Elizabethtown
1st Franklin Financial is a financial services company that offers personal loans up to $15,000 with flexible terms, designed to help customers manage unexpected expenses or financial needs without predatory practices. Founded in 1941 by Ben F. Cheek in Toccoa, Georgia, the company has grown to operate over 370 branches across the Southeast. It emphasizes honesty, transparency, and community support, offering fixed rates and payments with no hidden fees. The business serves customers in 10 states and has facilitated over 6 million loans totaling more than $13 billion.
1st Franklin Financial provides personal installment loans to individuals in need of short- or long-term financial assistance, including for medical expenses, home improvement, weddings, or unexpected costs. Loans are available with fixed payments and rates, and the company claims to offer quick approvals and same-day funding in some cases. The company does not offer payday loans or loans secured against next paychecks. It is not a Catholic-owned business, though it supports various charities including St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the American Heart Association. Founded in 1941, it has been in operation for over 80 years and is headquartered in Toccoa, Georgia, with branches across the Southeast, including Elizabethtown, Kentucky. The company emphasizes community involvement and financial literacy, with a mission to empower local communities.
- In business
- since 1941 / over 80 years
- Owner
- Ben F. Cheek
- Serves
- Southeastern United States (AL, GA, KY, LA, MS, SC, TN, TX, VA, FL)
- Rating
- 4.8 out of 5 (76 reviews)
About Us
From our roots in 1941, 1st Franklin has been dedicated to offering trusted financial solutions to our local communities. Today, we proudly continue that mission with over 370 branches throughout the Southeast. Our numbers speak for themselves. 10 States We service 6 Million + Loans made 13 Billion + Dollars loaned
Why Choose 1st Franklin?
We put people 1st and will be there when you need us. When you find yourself in need of financial help, we offer personal loans up to $15,000 with flexible terms to fit any budget, so you can get back to what really matters living your life. We are not a payday lender and we do not offer loans secured against a customers next paycheck. We offer short and long term installment loans with payment plans that fit each customers need. With over 370 1st Franklin offices across the southeast, were not far from home, and we have been offering loans to our neighbors for over 80 years.
Our History
It all started in 1941 when Ben F. Cheek made his first auto loan — just $34 — from his law office in Toccoa, Georgia. In 1983, the name “Franklin Discount Company” was replaced with “1st Franklin Financial Corporation.” In 1991, 1st Franklin Financial celebrated its 50th Anniversary.
Community Involvement
We support local and national charities, from homeless shelters and food banks to organizations such as the American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, United Way, March of Dimes, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Susan G. Komen Foundation, the U.S. Armed Forces, and more.