Originally Posted On: https://www.iquanti.com/
There are few feelings in life more stressful than an emergency financial need. Auto repairs, medical expenses, overdue bill payments, and empty refrigerators all fall into this category. You can probably add quite a few more scenarios if you have children.
What classifies as a financial emergency can differ for everyone. Let’s dive deeper into some emergency money options that are available to you when you’re in a financial pinch:
Friends and family
Asking your parents, other family members, or friends for some assistance when you need emergency money is not a bad choice if you think they’ll agree to help you. One way to avoid misunderstandings is to put the agreement in writing. This can ensure everyone is on the same page about how much money you’ll borrow and how quickly you’ll pay it back.
Cash advances
Some emergencies could be covered by your weekly or biweekly paycheck, but what happens when you run out of money early in the payroll cycle and need to wait a few days for your money? Cash advances can be a quick and easy solution to that problem. You can get the funds as early as today and simply pay back this loan when you get your next paycheck in two to four weeks.
Installment loans
An installment loan is a loan that you’ll need to pay back in fixed monthly payments over a period of a few months to a few years. Some installment loans are not as easy to get as cash advances, but the interest rates are typically lower than they are on short-term loan options. Installment loans are available at traditional banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Many lenders offer same-day approvals, so you can cover expenses right away.
Credit card cash advances
Credit card cash advances are expensive and will limit the buying power on your credit card, but they’re also instant and can be obtained at an ATM machine. That’s a convenience that’s hard to argue with when you must cover the costs of an emergency. But in a situation where you don’t need cash to cover the emergency expense, simply paying with your credit card may be a more affordable alternative.
Title loans
Title loans are secured loans that allow you to use your vehicle as collateral. After you fill out an application, you can bring your car and title to a lender’s store location. Then, they’ll appraise the vehicle and offer you a percentage of what the car is worth. The lender will hold onto your title if you get approved, and you can keep driving your car as you repay the loan. But keep in mind that the lender can repossess your car if you default on the loan, so make sure you can pay it back before applying.
How to choose the right emergency money option
The urgency of your emergency, combined with the state of your relationships with friends and family, will help dictate which of these options is right for you. Your credit score may also come into play. Cash advance lenders and title lenders have less strict criteria, but some lenders that offer installment loans may have a minimum credit score requirement. By evaluating your financial situation and needs, you can choose an emergency money option that can help you get back on your feet as soon as possible.
The bottom line
There are several options for obtaining emergency money today. Ask friends and family, take out a cash advance, apply for an installment loan, get a credit card cash advance, or provide your car’s title as collateral for a title loan. If you choose to get a loan, be sure to submit an application early in the day so that you may receive the money you need before the close of business.
