Lending A Helping Hand

Is the loan really interest-free?

Yes.  You will not be charged interest for money borrowed from the Moses E. Miller Hebrew Free Loan Society.

Who can apply for a loan?  Do you have to be Jewish to qualify?

Loans are available to Jews in the greater Cincinnati area. We also consider applicants who work for Jewish organizations or households in Cincinnati. If you do not live in the greater Cincinnati area, please CLICK HERE to find a Hebrew Free loan organization in your community.

How much can I receive?

We give loans up to $5,000.

How long will I have to repay?

Depending on the amount borrowed, loans are to be repaid in one to three years. We will work with you to establish a repayment schedule. Repayment typically starts one month after you receive the loan.

Do I need someone to co-sign the loan?

Yes, we require someone over age18 to co-sign the loan. Typically we ask for two co-signers, but may consider giving loans to applicants with one.

Is the information on my loan application confidential?

Yes. We will protect the confidentiality of personal and financial information on your loan application.

Is giving an interest-free loan a mitzvah?

Yes. Three passages in the Torah command Jews to provide interest-free loans to fellow Jews.

1. Exodus 22:24(Parshas Mishpatim) — “When you lend money to My people, to the poor person who is with you, do not act toward him as a creditor; do not lay interest upon him”
2. Leviticus 25:36–37 (Parshas Behar) — “Do not take from him interest and increase . . . Do not give him your money for interest”
3. Deuteronomy 23:20–21 (Parshas Ki Seitzei) — “You shall not cause your brother to take interest, interest of money or interest of food, interest of anything that he may take as interest”