Best Quick Loans for Emergency Cash

January 20, 2025

Emergencies can pop up at any time. What can you do if you don’t have the cash to cover them? Plenty of people are in the same boat. The Fed’s 2023 Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households found that one in four Americans cannot cover a $400 emergency. 

Quick loans can be your saving grace. You receive the money you need when you need it. 

We’ve put together quick loan options, alternatives to consider, and advice for how to get emergency cash fast.

How can I get emergency money fast?

Cash advance apps

Cash advance apps are a convenient way to access small amounts of money before your next paycheck. These apps provide an instant advance on your earned wages. There’s no interest, no credit check, and low fees. You can borrow from $20 to $500, depending on your account history and income.

You will need to link the app to your bank account. Some require you to set up direct deposit or add an electronic timesheet. The app will review your banking history, income, and spending patterns to determine how much to lend you. 

Many cash advance apps rely on optional tips or subscription models for revenue. Tip what you like instead of having to pay a fee. If you need your cash within hours, the app may charge a fast funding fee for the convenience. Otherwise, you’ll receive your advance for free within one to three business days.

While cash advance apps can be a helpful short-term solution, they shouldn’t replace sound budgeting. Relying on them too frequently could create a cycle of dependency, making it harder to achieve financial stability.

Payday loans

Payday loans are short-term loans designed to provide quick cash in an emergency. These loans typically range from $100 to $1,000, depending on state regulations and your income. Payday loans are easy to qualify for. Lenders require minimal documentation like proof of income and a valid ID. Funds are usually deposited into your account within one business day.

The problem is that payday loans come with significant drawbacks. They carry incredibly high fees, often exceeding an annual percentage rate (APR) of 400%. The repayment terms are short, usually two weeks or until your next paycheck. You may face additional fees if you can’t repay the loan, plus fees on time. Many borrowers end up rolling over the loan or taking out a second loan to cover the first.

Payday loans can easily lead to a cycle of debt. They should only be used as a last resort when no other financial options are available. Alternatives like installment loans or cash advance apps may be safer.

Pawnshop loans

Pawnshop loans are a quick and accessible way to borrow money using personal items as collateral. To get a pawnshop loan, you bring in a valuable item—such as jewelry, electronics, or instruments—and the pawnshop assesses its worth. Based on this, they offer a loan amount, typically a fraction of the item’s market value. Loan amounts vary but are often between $50 and $500, with repayment terms ranging from 30 to 90 days.

One benefit of pawnshop loans is that they don’t require a credit check or income verification. The drawback is that interest rates and fees can be high. You also have to repay the loan plus interest and fees at once. If you fail to repay, the pawnshop keeps your item instead of pursuing debt collection.

Pawnshop loans are best for small, immediate financial needs. Consider them a short-term option and only take one out if you’re sure you can repay it.

Car title loans

Car title loans are short-term loans that use your vehicle’s title as collateral. You can borrow from 25% to 50% of the car’s market value on the same day. These loans are popular for those with a limited credit history or bad credit since they don’t require a credit check.

While car title loans provide fast cash, they come with significant risks. Interest rates are often steep, with APRs commonly exceeding 300%. Repayment terms are usually short, often 30 days or less. Failure to repay the loan on time can result in additional fees, loan rollovers, or even repossession of your vehicle.

Before taking out a car title loan, explore alternatives. Personal loans for bad credit from online lenders or credit unions can be a more affordable option. They often come with lower interest rates and more manageable repayment terms.

Personal loans for bad credit

Personal loans for bad credit provide individuals with low credit scores or a limited credit history a chance to access much-needed funds. These loans are often unsecured, meaning no collateral is required. The catch is that they come with higher interest rates to offset the lender’s risk. Depending on the lender, borrowers can typically qualify for amounts ranging from $500 to $5,000.

Many online lenders specialize in bad credit personal loans. They place less emphasis on your credit score – a few don’t even check your credit. Instead, they consider other factors such as income, employment history, and debt-to-income ratio. The flexible qualification criteria and fast approvals make them an ideal option.

Always take the time to compare lenders, as terms and fees can vary widely. Try to prequalify for loans to understand the amount, fees, interest, and repayment terms you may receive. Then apply for the best offer.

Personal loans can be a lifeline in emergencies. Only borrow what you need and ensure the monthly payments are affordable. Pay the money back as agreed, and you’ll boost your credit score.

What is a quick loan?

A quick loan is a type of financing designed to provide fast access to cash. Most quick loans are approved and funded within the same day or the next day. These loans are ideal for covering unexpected expenses like medical bills, car repairs, or other emergencies. Quick loans can come in various forms, including payday loans, personal loans, cash advances, and pawnshop loans, each with its own terms and requirements.

The application process for quick loans is straightforward. Most require basic documentation such as proof of income, government-issued identification, and a bank account. Many lenders, especially online ones, offer instant approval decisions and rapid funding. 

While convenient, quick loans often have higher interest rates and shorter repayment periods. They can be expensive and more challenging to repay compared to traditional loans.

When considering a quick loan, it’s essential to compare options. Understand the costs involved and ensure the repayment terms fit your financial situation.

Quick loan alternatives

If a quick loan isn’t the right fit, consider these alternatives for accessing emergency funds without an application process.

Credit card cash advance

A credit card cash advance is when you withdraw cash from an ATM or bank teller using your credit card. It’s fast and doesn’t require additional approval. You can withdraw cash up to a specific limit, usually lower than your credit limit.

The APRs for cash advances are typically higher than for regular card purchases, and you start accruing interest immediately. Your card provider will also charge a service fee of 3% to 5% of the advanced amount. And then there’s the ATM fee. 

Use this option sparingly and repay the amount as soon as possible to minimize costs.

Buy now, pay later apps

Buy now, pay later (BNPL) apps let you split purchases into manageable payments. You can pay for a purchase over a few weeks, often with little to no interest. These apps are ideal for covering essential items without upfront costs. 

The trap with these apps is that it’s easy to overspend. If you miss payments, you may have to pay a fee, and your credit score may suffer. Before you commit to a BNPL plan, make sure you can afford the payments.

Hardship programs

Many creditors and service providers offer hardship programs to assist during financial difficulties. These programs may provide temporary payment reductions, deferred payments, lower interest rates, or waived fees

Reach out to your creditor, utility company, or service provider to discuss available options. Credit card companies are especially willing to negotiate more manageable terms as they want to get paid. They know you are more likely to pay your rent than your credit card bill when you’re short on cash.

Hardship programs can provide relief without taking on new debt, making them a responsible alternative to quick loans.

Estimate quick loan costs

Quick loans can provide fast financial relief, but ones for bad credit often come with higher costs and risks. Before you borrow money, read the fine print and figure out how much the loan will cost. Look at the interest rate, fees, and repayment terms. You can use an online loan calculator to help you understand how much you will pay. Ensure you can afford the monthly payments, and the loan won’t lead to financial strain.

You also need to assess the risks. Several quick loans for bad credit have short repayment terms and require collateral. Consider if you can repay the loan within a short time frame. Understand what will happen to your collateral if you don’t make the required payments.

How to find a quick loan

Check your credit score. It is essential to know where you stand since most lenders have a minimum credit score requirement. There’s no point in applying for a loan you’re not qualified for.

Prequalify for loans. Many lenders let you prequalify without affecting your credit and compare offers before formally applying. Prequalifying does not guarantee you’ll be approved, but it lets you assess your chances. You can compare the costs and repayment terms to find the best loan for you.

Apply for the best loan. After you’ve compared offers and selected a lender, it’s time to formally apply. 

Get your money. Once approved, your lender will deposit cash in your bank account. The whole process should take one to two days.

How to improve your chances of getting money fast

Here are a few things you can do to speed up the lending process:

– Gather all necessary documents before you apply

– Double-check your application is correct

– Choose an online lender with same-day or next-day funding

– Apply before noon on a business day

– Set up direct deposit

How to get a low-interest loan

If you have bad credit or limited credit history, it can be challenging to secure a low-interest personal loan. Most lenders will charge more interest since they are worried you won’t pay them. It’s their way of not losing any money. 

You have a few options to reduce costs and make borrowing more manageable.

Add a co-signer

Having a co-signer with good credit can improve your chances of securing a loan with better terms. Lenders view co-signed loans as less risky. As a result, they’ll often offer lower interest rates and higher approval odds. 

Before asking someone to co-sign, ensure you can make payments. Your co-signer is also legally responsible for the loan. If you miss a payment, the creditor can go after your co-signer, and both your credit scores will suffer.

Put up collateral

Secured loans come with lower APRs and higher approval odds than unsecured loans. The lower costs reflect the lower risks for lenders. Go ahead and add collateral if you have an asset – property, vehicle, or savings account – you can put up. Know that the lender can seize the asset if you don’t pay. As always, it’s essential to have a payment plan in place before you borrow.

Negotiate better terms

If you already have a loan, negotiate with the lender for more favorable terms. Ask for a lower interest rate, reduced fees, or an extended repayment period. Some lenders are willing to work with borrowers, especially if you can demonstrate financial hardship or have a history of on-time payments. Negotiating could save you significant money over time.

Frequently asked questions

1. How can I borrow money and get it instantly?

You can borrow money instantly through cash advance apps, credit card cash advances, or online lenders offering same-day funding. Ensure you meet the lender’s requirements and can provide all the necessary documentation for a quick approval process.

2. How fast are quick loans?

Quick loans are designed to provide funds rapidly, often within a few hours or the same business day. Some lenders may require up to 24 hours for processing.

3. What is the easiest way to borrow money instantly?

The easiest way to borrow money instantly is through a cash advance app or a credit card cash advance. These options require minimal approval processes and can provide funds directly to your account or as cash.

4. How can I borrow $500 on the same day?

Consider applying with an online lender offering quick loans, using a cash advance app, or withdrawing a cash advance from your credit card. Ensure you meet eligibility criteria to expedite approval.

Bottom line

Quick loans can be a helpful solution when emergencies strike, but it’s essential to borrow responsibly. Before taking out a loan, evaluate your financial situation and explore alternatives with lower costs or fewer risks. If borrowing is necessary, only take what you truly need and ensure the repayment terms fit your budget to avoid additional financial strain.

Loans for people with bad credit often have higher interest rates and fees. Calculate the total costs, compare lenders, read the terms carefully, and avoid predatory practices. Responsible borrowing is key for your immediate needs and long-term financial health.

1. Paycheck Advance is For eligible customers only. Your actual available Paycheck Advance amount will be displayed to you in the mobile app and may change from time to time. Conditions and eligibility may vary and are subject to change at any time, at the sole discretion of Finco Advance LLC, which offers this optional feature. Finco Advance LLC is a financial technology company, not a bank. Expedited disbursement of your Paycheck Advance is an optional feature that is subject to an Instant Access Fee and may not be available to all users. Expedited disbursements may take up to an hour. For more information, please refer to Paycheck Advance Terms and Conditions.         Current is a financial technology company, not an FDIC-insured bank. FDIC insurance up to $250,000 only covers the failure of an FDIC-insured bank. Certain conditions must be satisfied for pass-through deposit insurance coverage to apply. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group, Member FDIC, and Cross River Bank, Member FDIC. The Current Visa® Debit Card issued by Choice Financial Group, and the Current Visa® secured charge card issued by Cross River Bank, are both pursuant to licenses from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa debit or credit cards are accepted. Current Individual Account required to apply for the Current Visa® secured charge card. Independent approval required.           Faster access to funds is based on comparison of traditional banking policies and deposit of paper checks from employers and government agencies versus deposits made electronically. Direct deposit and earlier availability of funds is subject to timing of payer’s submission of deposits.
2. Debit card: Fees may apply, including out of network cash withdrawal fees, third-party fees, cash load fees, inactivity fees, account closure fees, international transaction fees, replacement card fees, express mail fees and escheatment fees.                                                                                                                                                       Build Card: Some fees may apply, including out of network ATM fees of $2.50 per transaction, late payment fees of 3% of any total due balance outstanding and past due for two or more billing cycles, foreign transaction fees of 3% of the full transaction amount (minimum $0.50), card replacement fees per card of $5 for regular delivery and $30 for expedited delivery, cash deposit fees of $3.50 per deposit, and third party processing fees.
3. Current is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group, Member FDIC, and Cross River Bank, Member FDIC. The Current Visa® Debit Card is issued by Choice Financial Group pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted. The Current Visa® secured charge card is issued by Cross River Bank pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa credit cards are accepted. Please see the back of your Card for its issuing bank. Current Individual Account required to apply for the Current Visa® secured charge card. Independent approval required.
4. Individual results may vary. Using your credit card responsibly may allow you to improve your credit score. Credit building depends on various factors, including your payment history, credit utilization, length of credit history, and other financial activities.
5. Faster access to funds is based on comparison of traditional banking policies and deposit of paper checks from employers and government agencies versus deposits made electronically. Direct deposit and earlier availability of funds is subject to timing of payer’s submission of deposits.
6. Current is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group. Funds held in Savings Pods are FDIC-insured on a pass-through basis up to $250,000 at our partner bank Choice Financial Group, member FDIC.
7. Paycheck Advance is For eligible customers only. Your actual available Paycheck Advance amount will be displayed to you in the mobile app and may change from time to time. Conditions and eligibility may vary and are subject to change at any time, at the sole discretion of Finco Advance LLC, which offers this optional feature. Finco Advance LLC is a financial technology company, not a bank.
8. Expedited disbursement of your Paycheck Advance is an optional feature that is subject to an Instant Access Fee and may not be available to all users. Expedited disbursements may take up to an hour. For more information, please refer to Paycheck Advance Terms and Conditions.
9. Actual overdraft amount may vary and is subject to change at any time, at Current’s sole discretion. In order to qualify and enroll in the Fee-Free Overdraft feature, you must receive $500 or more in Eligible Direct Deposits into your Current Account over the preceding 35-day period and fulfill other requirements subject to Current’s discretion. Negative balances must be repaid within 60 days of the first Eligible Transaction that caused the negative balance. For more information, please refer to Fee-free Overdraft Terms and Conditions. Individual Current Accounts only.
10. For eligible customers only. You may earn Points in connection with your Build Card purchases at retailers whose merchant code is classified as: Dining (e.g., restaurants) and Groceries (e.g., supermarkets) and by completing other actions that Current designates as subject to the Current Points Program. The amount of Points granted for different actions as well as the purchase requirements necessary to earn Points will vary, and is subject to Current’s sole discretion. After qualifying, please allow 3-5 business days for points to post to your Current account. Points will expire 365 days after they settle. For more information (including specific eligibility criteria), please refer to the Current Points Terms and Condition.
11. Some fees may apply, including out of network ATM fees of $2.50 per transaction, late payment fees of 3% of any total due balance outstanding and past due for two or more billing cycles, foreign transaction fees of 3% of the full transaction amount (minimum $0.50), card replacement fees per card of $5 for regular delivery and $30 for expedited delivery, cash deposit fees of $3.50 per deposit, and third party processing fees.
12. Boost Bonuses are credited to your Savings Pods within 48 hours of enabling the Boost feature and on a daily basis thereafter, provided that the Savings Pod has accrued a Boost Bonus of at least $0.01. No minimum balance required. The Boost rate on Savings Pods is variable and may change at any time. The disclosed rate is effective as of August 1, 2023. Must have $0.01 in Savings Pods to earn a Boost rate of either 0.25% or 4.00% annually on the portion of balances up to $2000 per Savings Pod, up to $6000 total. The remaining balance earns 0.00%. To earn a Boost rate of 4.00%, the sum of your Eligible Payroll Deposits over a rolling 35-day period must be $500 or more, with at least one Eligible Payroll Deposit equalling a minimum of $200. For more information, please refer to Current Boost Terms and Conditions.
13. Current is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group. Your money is FDIC-insured on a pass-through basis up to $250,000 at each of our partner banks, Choice Financial Group and Cross River Bank, members FDIC.
14. Average value based on Fine Hotels + Resorts bookings in 2023 for stays of two nights. Benefits include daily breakfast for two, room upgrade upon arrival when available, $100 amenity, guaranteed 4PM late checkout, and noon check-in when available. Certain room categories not eligible for upgrade. $100 amenity varies by property. Actual value will vary based on property, room rate, upgrade availability, and use of benefits.
15. Up to $500 per Covered Trip that is delayed for more than 6 hours; and 2 claims per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
16. The maximum benefit amount for Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance is $10,000 per Covered Trip and $20,000 per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
17. Baggage Insurance Plan coverage can be in effect for Covered Persons for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen Baggage during their travel on a Common Carrier Vehicle (e.g. plane, train, ship, or bus) when the Entire Fare for a ticket for the trip (one- way or round-trip) is charged to an Eligible Card. Coverage can be provided for up to $2,000 for checked Baggage and up to a combined maximum of $3,000 for checked and carry-on baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the Common Carrier. The coverage is also subject to a $3,000 aggregate limit per Covered Trip. For New York State residents, there is a $2,000 per bag/suitcase limit for each Covered Person with a $10,000 aggregate maximum for all Covered Persons per Covered Trip. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.
18. Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance can provide coverage up to $75,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible Card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the Commercial Car Rental Company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. Geographic restrictions apply. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.
19. Coverage for a Stolen or damaged Eligible Cellular Wireless Telephone is subject to the terms, conditions, exclusions, and limits of liability of this benefit. The maximum liability is $800, per claim, per Eligible Card Account. Each claim is subject to a $50 deductible. Coverage is limited to two (2) claims per Eligible Card Account per 12 month period. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
20. When an American Express® Card Member charges a Covered Purchase to an Eligible Card, Extended Warranty§ can provide up to one extra year added to the Original Manufacturer’s Warranty. Applies to warranties of five (5) years or less. Coverage is up to the actual amount charged to your Card for the item up to a maximum of $10,000; not to exceed $50,000 per Card Member account per calendar year. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.
21. Purchase Protection is an embedded benefit of your Card Membership and requires no enrollment. It can help protect Covered Purchases made on your Eligible Card when they’re accidentally damaged, stolen, or lost, for up to 90 days from the Covered Purchase date. The coverage is limited to up to $10,000 per occurrence, up to $50,000 per Card Member account per calendar year. Coverage Limits Apply. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.
22. Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., Members FDIC.
23. The secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Card is issued by Stride Bank, N.A., Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa credit cards are accepted.
24. Banking services and debit card provided by The Bancorp Bank N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., Members FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted.
25. The Annual Percentage Yield (“APY”) for the Chime Savings Account is variable and may change at any time. The disclosed APY is effective as of September 20, 2023. No minimum balance required. Must have $0.01 in savings to earn interest.
26. There’s no fee for the Chime Savings Account. Cash withdrawal and Third-party fees may apply to Chime Checking Accounts. You must have a Chime Checking Account to open a Chime Savings Account.
27. To apply for Credit Builder, you must have received a single qualifying direct deposit of $200 or more to your Chime Checking Account. The qualifying direct deposit must be from your employer, payroll provider, gig economy payer, or benefits payer by Automated Clearing House (ACH) deposit OR Original Credit Transaction (OCT). Bank ACH transfers, Pay Anyone transfers, verification or trial deposits from financial institutions, peer to peer transfers from services such as PayPal, Cash App, or Venmo, mobile check deposits, cash loads or deposits, one-time direct deposits, such as tax refunds and other similar transactions, and any deposit to which Chime deems to not be a qualifying direct deposit are not qualifying direct deposits.
28. Money added to Credit Builder will be held in a secured account as collateral for your Credit Builder Visa card, which means you can spend up to this amount on your card. This is money you can use to pay off your charges at the end of every month.
29. Based on a representative study conducted by Experian®, members who made their first purchase with Credit Builder between June 2020 and October 2020 observed an average FICO® Score 8 increase of 30 points after approximately 8 months. On-time payment history can have a positive impact on your credit score. Late payment may negatively impact your credit score.
30. On-time payment history may have a positive impact on your credit score. Late payment may negatively impact your credit score. Chime will report your activities to Transunion®, Experian®, and Equifax®. Impact on your credit may vary, as Credit scores are independently determined by credit bureaus based on a number of factors including the financial decisions you make with other financial services organizations.
31. Early access to direct deposit funds depends on the timing of the submission of the payment file from the payer. We generally make these funds available on the day the payment file is received, which may be up to 2 days earlier than the scheduled payment date.
32. SpotMe® on Debit is an optional, no fee overdraft service attached to your Chime Checking Account. To qualify for the SpotMe on Debit service, you must receive $200 or more in qualifying direct deposits to your Chime Checking Account each month and have activated your Visa debit card. Qualifying members will be allowed to overdraw their Chime Checking Account for up to $20 on debit card purchases and cash withdrawals initially but may later be eligible for a higher limit of up to $200 or more based on Chime Account history, direct deposit frequency and amount, spending activity and other risk-based factors. The SpotMe on Debit limit will be displayed within the Chime mobile app and is subject to change at any time, at Chime’s sole discretion. Although Chime does not charge any overdraft fees for SpotMe on Debit, there may be out-of-network or third-party fees associated with ATM transactions. SpotMe on Debit will not cover any non-debit card transactions, including ACH transfers, Pay Anyone transfers, or Chime Checkbook transactions. SpotMe on Debit Terms and Conditions.
33. Tipping or not tipping has no impact on your eligibility for SpotMe®.
34. Out-of-network ATM withdrawal fees may apply except at MoneyPass ATMs in a 7-Eleven, or any Allpoint or Visa Plus Alliance ATM.
35. Save When I Get Paid automatically transfers 10% of your direct deposits of $500 or more from your Checking Account into your savings account.
36. Round Ups automatically round up debit card purchases to the nearest dollar and transfer the round up from your Chime Checking Account to your savings account.
37. Mobile Check Deposit eligibility is determined by Chime in its sole discretion and may be granted based on various factors including, but not limited to, a member’s direct deposit enrollment status.
38. Funds are automatically debited from your Checking Account and typically deposited into the recipient’s Checking Account within seconds. Pay Anyone transactions will be monitored and may be held, delayed or blocked if the transfer could result in fraud or another form of financial harm. Sometimes instant transfers can be delayed.
39. Pay Anyone transactions will be monitored and may be held, delayed or blocked if the transfer could result in fraud or another form of financial harm. Sometimes instant transfers can be delayed. Non-Chime members must use a valid debit card to claim funds.
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About the author

Rachel Alulis

Rachel Alulis has been the lead editor for Moneyfor’s credit cards team since 2015 and for the financial rewards team since 2023. Before joining Moneyfor, Rachel worked at USA Today and the Des Moines Register. She then established a successful freelance writing and editing business specializing in personal finance. Rachel holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism and an MBA.