Frequently Asked Questions
At 1st Franklin, we have been serving the consumer finance industry since 1941. While we are not a bank, we provide a range of investment options, including Senior Demand Notes, Variable Rate Subordinated Debentures, and Commercial Paper. Our goal is to give investors clear, reliable information so you can make informed decisions. Below are answers to frequently asked questions about our company, our investment offerings, and how to manage your account.
Is 1st Franklin Financial Corporation a bank?
We are not a bank. We are a privately—held corporation that has been engaged in the consumer finance industry since 1941. We fund our loans through a combination of the issuance of short and longer-term debt securities, such as Senior Demand Notes, Variable Rate Subordinated Debentures, Commercial Paper, as well as with borrowings from time to time under our revolving credit facility.
Are 1st Franklin Investments insured?
Our Investments are not bank deposits and are not insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC) or any other Federal or State Agency. Investors must rely solely on the Company’s ability to pay principal and interest on its Investments.
Is 1ˢᵗ Franklin licensed to sell Investments in all states?
We are licensed to sell Variable Rate Subordinated Debentures to residents of Georgia and South Carolina. Senior Demand Notes may be sold to residents of Georgia, only. Commercial Paper may be sold to residents of any state, except California.
How do I make an Investment?
Simply call us at 706-886-7571 or 800-282-0709, and one of our Investment Center representatives will provide the information you need to start the Investment process. Sales of certain Investments are sold only by Prospectus and are strictly regulated. Therefore, Investment may not be purchased online, and you must speak with one of our representatives.
Will I be able to manage my 1ˢᵗ Franklin Investment account(s) online?
Yes! You will be provided a form to complete, which will allow you to sign-up for Online Investment Services as soon as it is returned to the Investment Center. At that time, you may click the Login link located at the top right of any of the Investment Center web pages. You will need to sign up the first time you go to the Online Investment Services. Once that is completed, you will be able to login to manage your Investments, view your history, make transfers between any of your Senior Demand Notes, and more!
Does 1st Franklin offer an online bill payment service?
You will be unable to initiate payments directly from your Senior Demand Notes online; however, you may have funds automatically sent to or withdrawn from your Senior Demand Note through a 3rd party. For example, you may have your payroll directed to your Senior Demand Note by setting this up with your Employer, or you may sign into your Credit Card account and have payments withdrawn from your Senior Demand Note by listing your Senior Demand Note account. Please contact the Investment Center for applicable routing numbers and complete instructions.
Why does my Senior Demand Note with Check Writing privileges say that these checks are payable through South State Bank?
Because 1st Franklin is not a bank, we must use a bank to process these check redemptions from your Senior Demand Note. Your funds are with 1st Franklin and South State Bank will be unable to cash checks for you or verify your Investment funds.
I have a local 1st Franklin office in my area. May I visit with them to open an Investment?
Our branch offices are unable to open or discuss Investments with you. They will refer you to the Investment Center, located only in Toccoa, GA. Please call the Investment Center at 706-886-7571 or 800-282-0709 to ask additional questions or begin the opening process.
If I call during business hours, will I talk with a “live” representative or with an automated answering service?
You will always be greeted with a friendly live voice, who will make sure that your call is handled in a professional manner. We do not use any automated answering service during business hours.
Will I be able to call and leave a message after business hours?
Yes, you may call the Investment Center at 706-886-7571 or 800-282-0709 any time before or after business hours to leave a message. One of the Investment Center representatives will return your call on the following business day. You may also send us a message at this link or by direct email to investmentcentercontactus@1ffc.com.
What are the Investment Center hours of operation?
The Investment Center, located at 135 East Tugalo Street, Toccoa, GA 30577, is open Monday through Friday from 8:30am to 5:00pm, and will accept phone calls or in-office visits during that time. On Saturday, the Drive-Thru is open from 8:30am to 12:00pm; however, the switchboard is closed on that day.