Pawn calculator
This pawn calculator gives you, in three steps and with no sign-up, a rough estimate of how much money First Cash could lend you for your item. Pick the category, enter the details and instantly get an approximate range so you arrive better prepared at the store.
⚠️ A rough estimate, not a First Cash offer. The real amount is set by each store after physically appraising your item.
How does pawning work at First Cash?
A pawn is a collateral-backed loan: you leave a valuable item as security, get cash on the spot and, within the agreed term, you can get it back. Your credit history is not checked, because the loan is based on the item, not on your creditworthiness.
- 1 You bring your item and your ID. The store appraises it at no cost or obligation.
- 2 You get an offer. If you accept, you receive cash on the spot and sign the contract (pawn ticket).
- 3 Your item is held during the loan term, which is set by your state's law.
- 4 At the due date you decide: get your item back by paying the total, or renew the loan by paying just the interest to extend the term.
- 5 If you don't pay or renew, the item goes to the store and is put up for sale. It creates no debt and does not affect your credit.
You have the full details in how pawning works at First Cash.
How much can you get for your item?
The loan is a percentage of your item's resale value. First Cash looks at the current market, physical condition, functionality and how easy it is to resell, not the new price. As a guide, these are the ranges the calculator uses:
| Item type | % of value (estimate) |
|---|---|
| Gold & jewelry | 40% – 60% |
| Diamond jewelry | 30% – 55% |
| Luxury watches | 40% – 70% |
| Phones, laptops, tablets, consoles | 15% – 35% |
| Power tools | 15% – 30% |
| Musical instruments | 20% – 40% |
| Bags & luxury items | 15% – 40% |
On top of that range, the calculator also applies a factor for the item's condition (from "new" to "worn").
How much does pawning cost?
Pawning has a cost in the form of monthly interest and fees. In the United States there is no single figure: pawn lending is regulated by each state, and industry charges run roughly from 4% to 25% per month depending on the jurisdiction. That's why the same loan can cost differently in Texas, Florida or North Carolina.
We explain it in depth in how much a pawn shop charges.
Requirements to pawn
- Be of legal age.
- A valid photo ID: driver's license, state ID or passport.
- The item you want to pawn, ideally complete (accessories, box, paperwork).
Your credit is not checked and no proof of income is required. Exact requirements may vary by state.
What can you pawn?
First Cash accepts a wide range of valuable items: gold and jewelry, electronics (phones, laptops, tablets, consoles), power tools, musical instruments and luxury items (designer watches and bags). Accessories and paperwork help the appraisal. See the category guides: gold & jewelry, electronics, tools and luxury.
Tips before you pawn
- Compare interest and terms at more than one shop before deciding.
- Bring the item complete and clean: accessories, box and paperwork improve the offer.
- Don't commit to paying more than you can: remember the cost of getting your item back.
- Read the contract and check the due date and renewal cost before signing.
Frequently asked questions
Is the calculator result exact?
No. It's a rough estimate to give you an idea. The real amount depends on the physical appraisal in store, the item's condition and local demand.
How does the calculator estimate the loan?
It takes the resale value you enter, applies the typical loan range for that category (for example 15%–35% for electronics) and a factor based on the item's condition. For gold and silver it first calculates the metal value by grams and purity.
How much can I get for my phone or laptop?
Usually between 15% and 35% of its current resale value. The model, age, condition and whether it's unlocked and has its accessories all matter.
Do I need to sign up or give my details?
No. The calculator is free and anonymous: you just pick the category and enter a few basic details about the item.
What happens if I don't pay on time?
You can renew the loan by paying the interest to extend the term. If you don't renew or get the item back, it goes to the store and is put up for sale. It creates no debt and does not affect your credit.
Is my credit history checked?
No. The loan is based on the item as collateral, not on your history.
This page is an independent informational guide. It is not First Cash and is not affiliated with FirstCash Holdings, Inc. The calculator provides rough estimates based on public industry data and is not a loan offer or financial advice. The real appraisal is done in store; interest and terms are set by each state's law.