Author: awesome_developer

What is the difference between a bank and a currency exchange?

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When it comes to handling our finances, we often find ourselves faced with multiple options. Two common choices are traditional banks and currency exchanges. While both serve the purpose of managing monetary transactions, they differ significantly in their approach and services offered. Today, we’ll delve into the distinctions between these two options and introduce Cash2Go Financial Services as a viable alternative for clients seeking convenience and a personal touch.

The Basics: Banks vs. Currency Exchanges

Banks have long been the go-to institution for individuals and businesses alike when it comes to managing their finances. Offering a wide range of services, including savings and checking accounts, loans, and investment opportunities, banks provide comprehensive financial solutions. They often have a well-established presence within communities, making them a trusted choice for many.

On the other hand, currency exchanges are primarily focused on facilitating foreign currency transactions. These establishments offer services like currency conversion, money transfers, and check cashing. While they may not provide the extensive suite of services that banks do, currency exchanges excel in offering specialized assistance in specific areas.

Drawbacks of Banks

Despite the conveniences they offer, banks have a few drawbacks. The bureaucratic nature of larger financial institutions can lead to processes that may be time-consuming and complex. Moreover, personalized customer service can sometimes take a backseat when dealing with larger banking institutions. Clients may find themselves navigating automated systems or waiting in long queues, searching for assistance.

Currency Exchanges: A Viable Alternative

This is where Cash2Go Financial steps in as an attractive option for clients seeking convenience and a personal touch. Unlike banks, Cash2Go places emphasis on providing above-standard financial services in a comfortable environment. With multiple locations, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, accessibility is a top priority.

Clients who opt for Cash2Go benefit from our commitment to exceptional customer service. The helpful and friendly staff at Cash2Go have received praise from customers for our patience and willingness to go the extra mile. The knowledgeable team ensures quick and efficient service while addressing any concerns or queries clients may have.

Importantly, Cash2Go goes beyond traditional currency exchanges by offering additional financial services such as check cashing, money transfers, and even vehicle registration. We have even ventured into the realm of digital currency, earning accolades for our rare ability to deal with Bitcoin transactions. Clients are encouraged to explore Cash2Go as a reliable one-stop solution for their financial needs.

Making an Informed Decision

When it comes to monetary transactions, considering all available options is crucial. While traditional banks provide comprehensive services, currency exchanges like Cash2Go offer a unique blend of convenience, accessibility, and personalized attention. By understanding your specific needs and preferences, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your financial requirements.

Where Can I Purchase a Vehicle Sticker?

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While it may seem to come back around quickly, you can easily obtain your vehicles’ license plate renewal stickers without much thought, stress and hassle. As a resident of Illinois, you need to renew your license plates annually in order to drive legally throughout Chicagoland. To avoid the chaos that may be waiting for you at the Secretary of State’s offices, the Cash2Go crew is ready to assist you with this yearly task.

License Plate and Title Help

Renewing your license plates is as easy as 1,2,3 at Cash2Go with many locations around the Chicagoland region. From Arlington Heights and Bensenville to Wauconda and Waukegan, we have locations spread throughout Chicago and its suburbs in order to best serve our communities and neighborhoods. You can walk out with your renewal sticker, which is extremely beneficial if you have lost track of time or have needed to save up the money in order to renew your sticker before it expires.

Typically, you will need to bring in certain information in order to renew your license plate sticker. You need to have the payment as well as your Registration ID card or number and PIN. The number and PIN are both listed on your Registration ID card and any renewal documents or emails from the Secretary of State. If you have lost these items or need assistance with these key pieces of information, please contact the Secretary of State’s Public Inquiry Division before you see our team members for plate renewals.

Any notices from the State of Illinois should give you ample time to take care of your renewals. You can also make a note of the expiration date of your plates by keeping an eye on them and watching when they expire. If you are caught off guard and realize that you are at your expiration point, stop in to see us today or as soon as possible to make sure that your sticker is renewed in a timely manner. Beyond your license plate renewals, our Cash2Go crew members can also assist with transferring your title to you after the purchase of a new vehicle, boat or trailer. 

More Than Just Vehicle Services

With cash in our name, we are honored to serve Chicagoland with our financial services as well at any of our spots. If you do not have an account with a bank, our team can help you cash your personal or business checks. We also can transfer money to a family member or friend in need. Our additional money services include: issuing money orders, loading up your prepaid debit card, exchanging any foreign currency, sending payments electronically to keep your bills up-to-date, notarizing documents, exchanging your gift cards into cash and helping you obtain copies of legal documents, such as marriage, birth or death certificates. 

Reach out with questions through our online contact form. 

How Currency Exchange Rates are Determined

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Traveling for work or for fun includes a range of tasks to be completed! Beyond packing and having your passport updated, you need to have the correct currency to spend wherever you are going. It can be easier to have your funds on hand before you go with our foreign currency exchange services at Cash2Go Financial. Our team can help you exchange your U.S. dollars for the currency of your destination and exchange it back once you return.

The Lowdown on Exchange Rates

The rates are literally the amount that you can exchange one currency for another. They are always fluctuating and changing depending on a variety of factors if they are a floating exchange rate. If they are pegged or fixed to another currency rate, they can still float. Understanding the exchange rate while traveling is important to helping you have the best travel budget and ensure that you are able to do everything you want and not be left without the funds to fully have the best time. 

Floating exchange rates are impacted by the supply and demand principle. The rates shift as the two currencies supply, demand and value shift. Additional factors that impact rates include if the country is facing any specific challenges related to politics, war, inflation, GDP, trade, the banking industry and public debt. The majority of exchange rates are allowed to float and are determined by the ongoing financial and trade activity that occurs throughout the world as part of the currency market. Unfortunately, there can be short-term issues that also affect a country’s currency exchange rate, such as a natural disaster or if there are rumors or speculation about the political climate of a country. Government leaders and central banks will intervene in a floating rate that is not favorable to help keep their country’s exchange rate and financial climate on a favorable track.

Connect With Us for the Exchange

You do not need to know the exact exchange rates before you stop in to see us! We will talk through what you are receiving in exchange for your U.S. dollars before you travel and vice versa. We have many locations throughout the Chicagoland area where you can walk in at your convenience and quickly receive the foreign currency that you need before you travel. You can also take care of additional financial services before you head out of town on your world adventure. You might want to pick up a prepaid debit card if you do not have a credit card on-hand. Our Cash2Go team can help with a copy of your birth certificate before you receive your passport. We also can help you obtain a marriage certificate or death certificates.

Visit us for assistance today. If you have any questions, we are also available to help you today through our online contact form.   

The Top 6 Benefits of Prepaid Debit Cards

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A prepaid debit card can be your ticket to shopping and managing your money. They are essentially a credit card in application but are backed up by the amount that you have loaded onto them, so you cannot spend beyond what is available. Our Cash2Go team looks at the top benefits of putting a prepaid debit card into your wallet.

Your Money: Since your prepaid debit card is loaded up with your own funds, you are not borrowing from a bank or credit card company. This allows you to have direct access to your own money without needing a credit check or paying fees. You can pick one up at any of our many locations throughout Chicagoland easily without needing a bank account.

Your Budget: Since you can only spend what is available on your prepaid debit card, having one in hand can be an easy way to keep your monthly budget on track. You will not have access to a large number of funds like you do if you have a credit card with a high spending limit. If you are a person who would benefit from a restricted spending allowance, then a prepaid debit card is a good choice for you.

Your Cash Flow: Having a prepaid debit card is similar to having a credit card or account, as it allows you to pay bills, purchase items online and receive funds. It is an easy option for all of your cash needs that are controlled by you. 

Your Bills: If you are in need of actual cash paper dollars, then you can put your card into use by visiting an ATM. Our Cash2Go locations also have ATMs on-site for you to withdraw actual money from your prepaid debit card. Your card works as both a credit card and a debit card.

Your Shopping: Having a credit card is essential to purchasing anything online, and your prepaid debit card will allow you to shop online without the excessive amounts of money that is available through a regular credit card. 

Your Safety: A prepaid debit card can be a safer way of carrying your money if you are concerned about having too much cash on hand. If something does happen to your card, it can be canceled. 

Financial Services from Our Team

If you want to start a new prepaid debit card or load up additional funds, our team can assist you at any of our locations. Prepaid debit cards are just one of the many financial services that we provide to our community members. We can also issue money orders, help you pay bills electronically, exchange your gift cards and help you with money orders. Our professional crew members can also assist with notary services, copies of marriage or birth certificates, and vehicle registration. If you have questions, please reach out through our online contact form. 

What Documents Are Needed to Register a Vehicle in Illinois?

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As an Illinois resident and driver, you need to register your vehicle to stay legal in the state.  If you are a new resident of Illinois or a new driver, you may not be clear on everything you need to get this job done. Here we help you with the necessary documents and steps to take care of this task.

Key Items to Gather For Your Vehicle Registration

You have 30 days to register your vehicle in Illinois if you are a new resident. First and foremost, you need to have your vehicle insured to be a legal driver. You will also need: the title of your vehicle, proof of your insurance policy, an application for the transaction, the basic details of your car such as model and year, an odometer disclosure statement and the necessary amount of money for fees and taxes. While the fees will vary depending on model and type of license plate, but some general cost outlines include: a $50 title fee and $25 license plate transfer fee if applicable. You can apply for a reduction in fees if you drive an electric vehicle.

Time to Register Your Vehicle

Once you have gathered the needed documents, you can visit the Illinois Secretary of State’s local office to get your vehicle registered or you can stop in to one of our many Chicagoland locations at Cash 2 Go Financial. Our team focuses on quality customer service that is easy and stress-free. You can register your car, boat or trailer conveniently with us. Our locations have hours that will work within your work schedule, so that you do not have to make time to visit the Secretary of State’s office or give up your lunch hour.  You do not need an appointment, but can visit our team when you have the time.

If you are new to living in Illinois, you may be confused about the procedures or overwhelmed with everything that you need to get done after moving. We are happy to answer your questions at any time in person. If you have just purchased a vehicle from a private party, you have 20 days to take care of the registration. You will need the application for vehicle transactions, the vehicle’s title, any details of the lienholders, the fee, the private party vehicle transaction form and the odometer disclosure statement.

Get Your Other Tasks Completed With Us

At Cash 2 Go Financial, we will help you with your vehicle registration, plate renewal and a variety of financial services – all in one place. You can pay your bills electronically with us, place or receive a money order, obtain or load up a prepaid debit card or exchange your unwanted gift cards. We also can assist you with vital documents, such as marriage, birth or death certificates. 

We can answer your questions via our online contact form. 

Financial Literacy Series: What is a Credit Card Cash Advance?

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When it comes to money matters, staying knowledgeable can help you stay financially savvy and on top of your budget and cash flow. Our series on financial literacy seeks to inform you of some key financial concepts to help you make the most of your money. Here we take a deep dive into a credit card cash advance.

The Lowdown on Credit Card Cash Advances

Your credit card has always been an option when you are needing to purchase something and you do not have the cash-on-hand. Credit cards are pretty much accepted anywhere and everywhere. But what if you need actual cash? Or the merchant is charging a credit card use fee and you do not want the extra charge? That is where a credit card cash advance comes into play. It is a mini-loan that will put cash in your hands as a “charge” on your credit card.

The Fine Print on Credit Card Advances

Just like any loan, you are agreeing to terms by utilizing this service through your credit card company. While every company is different, in general, you should be aware of any transaction fees, special interest rates for cash advances or the annual percentage rate of your card to have a balance. Make sure that you are aware of the charges that will add to the amount you are taking in cash, so you can best plan how to pay it off.

The Need for Cash Advances

There are so many reasons that you may need a boost in your cash flow, but an emergency is often at the top of the list. Having this option available can ease your mind, as we never know when situations and challenges that need cash will pop up. Being aware of fees and terms will help you balance the need with obtaining a cash advance.

Financial Services Under One Roof

Our Cash2Go team can assist with a range of financial services through our many locations in the Chicagoland region. Beyond the need for cash, our team can assist you with many money offerings. We can issue you a money order if you are not wanting to carry cash around after you receive a credit card cash advance. We also can help you pay bills electronically, so you do not have to rely on the mail. We can assist with exchanging foreign currency and exchanging your gift cards that you do not want or will not use. Our on-site cash ATMs are also available, and assistance with any notarizing of important documents. We also can help you obtain copies of marriage, birth or death certificates.

If you have questions, stop in and talk to our team of experts. Our crew is ready to work with you to help you stay on track with all of your financial needs. You can also drop us a line or question through our online contact form. 

Financial Literacy Series: How to Protect Your Identity During Financial Transactions

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No one wants to be the victim of a crime – especially one that involves your money and one that does not come with the satisfaction of an arrest. Faceless and nameless cyber criminals and hackers continue to steal from innocent victims. As part of our continuing series on financial literacy, we take a look at some major ways to stay safe and protect your ID.

  1. Keep a Secret: Do not share any of your personal and private numbers with anyone. Keep your Social Security number private as well as any PIN numbers or financial-related passwords. Keep passwords updated and changed as well.
  2. Throw it Away: Sensitive paper items that you no longer need should be shredded and then thrown away or recycled. This includes paper bank statements and credit card offers.
  3. Worry about Missing Mail: If you always receive your bank statements in the mail, you should contact the bank if you do not to make sure there is not any unusual activity. Any financial services that can be done with online versus paper will help protect your identity as well. Strangers can access your mail, so do not put outgoing mail in your box with the flag up as another way to protect yourself.
  4. Credit Reports: You are entitled to a free copy of your credit report from the three reporting agencies through annualcreditreport.com. Take advantage of this a few times a year to help you keep an eye on anything usual that has surfaced, such as a credit card that you did not apply for.
  5. Mobile protection: Your smartphone is super smart and knows everything about you. Do not leave it sitting around in public and have a passcode to lock it up in case it is lost or stolen. If you are getting rid of your current phone, take the time to wipe it clean or reset it to the manufacturer’s settings.
  6. Ask Questions: If you are not sure about any transactions on your credit card, contact the company as soon as possible to double-check any suspicious activity or if you have any questions about transactions.
  7. Report Fraud Immediately: If you think you have been a victim, contact your bank or credit card companies as well as the credit agencies. Also, head out to your local police department and file a report.

Our Team is Here for Your Financial Transactions

At Cash 2 Go, we will help you take care of your money needs with a range of services in our locations that are conveniently set around the Chicagoland area. Our team takes security seriously as well as providing key services to make your daily life easier. Our money services include: check cashing, gift card exchange, currency exchange, electronic bill pay, utility company payments, prepaid debit cards, notary services and money orders. We can answer your questions through our online contact form. 

Financial Literacy Series: Money Orders vs. Money Transfers

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When you do not want to pass along cash, but need to take care of a financial transaction, then a money order or money transfer is your best bet. Both of these options are safe and easy ways to get your money moving to wherever it needs to go – whether it is to pay off a bill or help out a loved one who lives in another state. Here we take a look at the similarities and differences between money orders and money transfers. No matter which one you choose, our team at Cash2Go can assist you and answer your questions.

Money Orders Take Care of Business

Among the key money services that we offer at many Cash2Go locations is the issuing of money orders. These are a great way to move a large amount of money safely and securely, especially if you do not have a checking or savings account with a bank. A money order is a paper document that can be used as a form of payment. A plus of a money order instead of a check is that the person or business you are paying knows that the money is good to go. You cannot be given a money order without having the money on hand, while a check will have to clear a bank. 

At our currency exchange centers that are within our locations, you can not only be issued a money order, but also receive one from someone else. These are issued without a typical large fee from your bank. Money orders continue to be a quick, dependable and safe way to put your money to work for you.

Money Transfers Zip Your Funds Where They Need to Go

On the other hand, a money transfer is done electronically, and they can promptly move your money to the desired destination quickly – often within minutes. An agent takes care of this task for you for a small fee, and our team works with both Western Union and MoneyGram. Western Union has many locations across the country and you can send or receive money from them at our locations. MoneyGram works to a person, bank account or digital wallet as a money transfer service with more options. 

Both money orders and money transfers allow you to keep track of your money as they both leave a record of your payment. For both, you will need the amount of cash, a photo ID and basic personal information and our team will take care of the rest of the transaction.

Our Team Helps With All of Your Money Needs

At Cash2Go, we do way more than just money orders and transfers. Stop in at one of our many locations for a prepaid debit card, gift card exchange, utility payments, foreign currency exchange, electronic bill pay and notary services. We can address your questions at any time through our online contact form.

Where Can I Renew My Illinois License Plate Sticker?

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As an Illinois resident, you need to stay on top of your vehicle registrations and license plate sticker renewals each and every year. While you can take time out of your day to get to the Secretary of State’s Office, our crew at Cash2Go Financial is helping transform the way you are able to renew your stickers. Our team members are here for you to get this yearly task checked off your to-do list quickly, conveniently and easily.

Our staff is ready to assist you at any of our various locations throughout the Chicagoland area. You will find us in many corners of our communities, including Park Ridge, Glenview, Arlington Heights, Wheeling, Bensenville, Grayslake, Evanston, Chicago, Palatine, Lake Zurich, Libertyville, and beyond. By being right in your neighborhood, our locations are located right where you need us, and our staff members can answer your questions and help you walk out with your renewal sticker, so that you are driving legally.

Don’t Forget to Bring These Key Items

Renewing your license plate sticker is an easy process – as long as you have everything you need to get it done! Please bring with you the following in order for our team members to complete the renewal process: registration ID card or number, PIN and payment for the renewal. The registration ID number and PIN are located on your renewal email that you should receive from the Secretary of State. If you are not sure about your number, you can contact the Secretary of State’s Public Inquiry Division to clarify before heading on in to see us.

Besides having many locations to serve you, our spots have hours that are extended beyond what you will find at the Secretary of State’s Office. You should not have to take time off work or juggle your kids’ activities in order to complete this task. Not only do we renew vehicle registrations, but we also can take care of your boat, trailer or RV sticker.

More Than Just Sticker Renewals

As a financial service provider, we are also here to help you with a variety of money services. You can not only take care of your sticker renewals or license plate registration, but also place or receive money orders and load or purchase prepaid debit cards. Our additional money services are: electronic bill pay, foreign currency exchange, gift card exchange, utility payments and purchase or refilling of transportation cards, such as Metra, CTA and Pace. Our services can assist you with obtaining copies of marriage or birth certificates and having important documents notarized. Please contact our team first, as our notary professionals are not always in our offices. Our financial service offerings can assist you with both your personal and professional lives, especially if you do not currently have a checking account at a bank. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out through our online contact form. 

Why It’s Important to Register Your Vehicle in Illinois

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Before you get behind the wheel for your latest trip or to run errands, take a moment to check on the status of your registration. While previously, the state of Illinois had sent out reminders to Illinois residents, that process ceased back in 2016, so it is up to residents to keep track of renewals and avoid late fees.

Having a registered vehicle with an up-to-date sticker is required to be a legal driver in the state of Illinois. Driving on expired plates can cause issues and spur late fees. If you are pulled over for speeding or other moving violations by a law enforcement officer, you could face additional tickets and fees every time you hit the road with an expired plate. If you let your license plates expire, you can also face a late fee when you finally get in to renew your plates.

Find Your Easy, One-Stop Solution to License Plate Renewals

Our Cash2Go team is here to help you stay legal as a driver in Illinois. You do not need to worry about waiting in line or the hassle of heading into the Secretary of State’s Office. Our locations across Chicagoland provide the service of license plate renewals. We strive to provide a quick and easy solution to your renewals. 

Before you visit us at any of our convenient locations to renew your stickers, make sure that you are ready to go. You will need to bring in your Registration ID card, PIN and a form of payment. You can find your Registration ID number and PIN on your Registration ID card. Any renewal paperwork should also contain this information. Our team can work with you on renewal of not only your vehicle registrations, but also any boat, trailer or RV registrations or renewals that you need to take care of. 

Vehicle Registration is Also Available With Our Team

A vehicle that is new to you will also need to be registered with the state as that is the law. Our Cash2Go team members can help you with this registration process as well as any renewals. Our locations are the convenient way to register your car, boat, RV, trailer or registration. To take care of this, please bring in your state-issued ID, title of the vehicle you are registering and proof of residency, such as a bill in your name. Please also note the miles on your odometer for our team to help you.

Connect With Our Team for Additional Services

Beyond vehicle registrations and renewals, our Cash2Go crew can assist you with a variety of money services, including electronic bill pay, foreign currency exchange, check cashing, money transfers, notary services and gift card exchange. We can issue you a money order and prepaid debit cards as well. To find us or for more information, reach out through our online contact form.