What to Do When You Need to Borrow Money Fast

Written By Mary Beth Eastman
Last updated January 25, 2019

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Loans
January 25, 2019

Simple. Thrifty. Living.

There are many reasons why someone would need a quick influx of cash. At times, the situation is serious: a medical emergency or the loss of a job. In other instances, you might see a limited edition comic book or a signed NFL helmet that you have to have.

If you need a loan right away, consider the options below. Before you know it, you may have enough cash on hand to weather your difficulties and reach a safe financial harbor.

If you have a relative or friend who’s well-off, you might explain your plight to that person and ask for a loan. Maybe you’ll sweat like crazy during that conversation, but it could be worth it in the end. Of course, if you’ve lent money to someone in the past, asking that person for a loan is a much easier proposition.

Alternatively, if you’ve worked someplace for a long time and your boss knows you well, she or he might be willing to quietly advance you a few weeks’ paychecks.

You could call all of your credit card companies and ask if they offer cash advances. Also, find out what fees are involved.

When a credit card company grants you an advance, you go to your bank and get money from a teller or an ATM. That amount will be the limit of your credit card or a certain portion of the limit.

Keep in mind, however, that the interest rate on such an advance could be extremely high, and it might compound every day.

Your best bet is probably to turn to a trustworthy website that furnishes loans. Such a lender will almost certainly supply you with money faster than a traditional bank would.

First, research the most trusted online loan sites. Take a look at some reviews of lenders like Upstart to get an idea of what is possible. When you find a company with many glowing (and credible) reviews, calculate a responsible sum of money to borrow. Be positive that you’ll be able to make your payments on time.

From there, go to the site you chooose and follow the instructions to begin the loan process.

Whatever your personal circumstances might be, the key to fast loans is extreme caution. Be certain that you understand the terms of the deal — all of them. And don’t be shy about asking a financially savvy friend for help with figuring out a contract. You can buy that person an ice cream sundae later on.

If you’re confident that you can handle the conditions of a loan, by all means, take a deep breath and sign on the line.

About the Author

Mary Beth Eastman

Mary Beth Eastman serves as the content manager for Simple. Thrifty. Living, where she is dedicated to helping readers use money and credit wisely. Mary Beth believes that access to the right financial information paired with a growth mindset are essential tools for getting out of debt and building wealth. Mary Beth has a degree in Journalism from Bowling Green State University and has focused her 20-year journalism career on putting readers front and center, carefully considering their concerns and presenting information that will help them in their everyday lives. She has won numerous statewide journalism awards. Her writing on personal finance as been featured on numerous websites in addition to Simple. Thrifty. Living, including Huffington Post and Lexington Law blog. Mary Beth resides in Pittsburgh, Pa., with her family and two rescue dogs.

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