Had an unexpected medical bill and needed money fast. The online application took only a few minutes, and I received a quick decision the same day. Simple process and no unnecessary steps.
I needed emergency funds for a car repair and decided to apply online. The process was fast and straightforward, and I received offers on the same day.
Needed a small short-term loan and didn’t want to search for an in-store option. Applied online and got an instant decision within minutes. The whole process was smooth and convenient.
Way easier than other local loan stores. I did everything online, very convenient.
If you’re an Illinois resident experiencing financial pressure, Cash Loans Bear is here to assist. The application is fairly quick and straightforward, and our customer support will guide you through the process. You don’t even have to worry about your credit score. We only perform soft checks that never affect your FICO score, in line with consumer protection standards overseen by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.
To apply, visit our store today. If you can’t come over, feel free to apply online through our site.
Our branch serves Edwardsville and the rest of Madison County, part of the greater St. Louis area. Here’s a quick look at the local job market, based on the county’s latest audited financial report:
| Local snapshot | Figure |
|---|---|
| Madison County unemployment rate (Nov. 30, 2024) | 3.6%, vs. 4.5% for Illinois and 4.2% nationally2 |
| County labor force (2024) | About 134,889 people2 |
| Southern Illinois University Edwardsville | Over 2,400 full-time staff, plus 1,000+ student workers; 14,122 students enrolled in fall 20242 |
Source: Madison County Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, FY ended Nov. 30, 2024 (published May 2025).
You can borrow up to $5,000 with Cash Loans Bear. But keep in mind that not every applicant qualifies for the maximum.
Illinois has some of the strongest small-loan protections in the country. Before you sign any offer, it helps to know these state rules:
| Rule | What it means for you |
|---|---|
| APR cap | Most consumer loans in Illinois, including payday and consumer installment loans, are capped at 36% APR as calculated under the Predatory Loan Prevention Act. Auto loans and other retail installment loans are covered too1. |
| Licensed lenders only | If a lender that needs a state license makes you a loan without one, you don’t have to repay the principal, interest, or any fees on that loan1. |
| Debt management fees | If you work with a debt management company, it can charge no more than $50 for initial counseling and no more than $50 per month1. |
| Where to check | Look up any lender in the IDFPR license database before you sign. |
Source: Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, Consumer Credit Section brochure (January 2024).
Apply online in just a few minutes.
Submit your application and receive a quick decision.
Get funds sent directly to your debit card or bank account.
Additional documents may be required.
For more information about identification and lending requirements, visit the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
Competitive short-term financial solutions
Nearly five years of industry experience and excellent customer support
Fast decisions and same-day loan options
Full disclosure and clear terms
Yes, you can! Bad credit won’t be an obstacle. Instead, we’ll consider your DTI or income to make a decision. Explore our income-based loan options.
You need the following to qualify for loans:
Of course! Just make sure you’re eligible first, then fill out the application on our website. We’ll get back to you with our decision on the same day.
Search the lender’s name in the license lookup on the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation website. If a lender isn’t on that list, it may not have legal authority to lend to Illinois consumers, although some lenders and loans are exempt from licensing. If you think a lender offered you a loan without a required license, you can file a complaint with IDFPR’s Consumer Credit Section1.
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
Consumer Credit Section — state loan rules. January 2024.
Madison County Auditor
Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, Fiscal Year Ended November 30, 2024 — local labor market. May 2025.
