Key takeaways
- Credit unions and community banks offer loans with lenient eligibility requirements.
- Avoid predatory lenders that charge excessive fees and have short repayment terms.
- If you can’t get a loan, consider borrowing from friends and family or explore community assistance programs.
If you need funds soon, you can find funds in ways other than traditional loans from banks. A personal loan can be hard to get if you have less-than-perfect credit. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. There are plenty of ways to borrow money or increase your cash flow if you have poor credit.
That said, many lenders with lenient requirements don’t offer the most affordable rates. Be cautious of lenders that charge high interest rates or have additional fees. You can find better options.
We’ll go over alternative ways to access money when traditional loans are out of reach.
Jump to:
- Sell unused items online
- Access your paycheck early
- Earn money quickly via side hustles
- Pawn valuables
- Try a temporary balance boost app
- Apply for a payday alternative loan
- Look for community loans
- Secure a personal loan
- Consolidate debt and save
- How can I get money if I’m struggling?
- Avoid high-risk loans
- How can I borrow money without a loan?
- Bottom line
Sell unused items online
If you need quick cash but can’t get a loan, look around your home. You may be sitting on hundreds of dollars’ worth of unused stuff. Selling items like electronics, clothing, furniture, tools, or collectibles can generate money fast without taking on new debt.
List your things on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, eBay, or apps like OfferUp and Mercari. Take clear photos, write honest descriptions, and price competitively to sell quickly. Local selling options are often faster because there’s no shipping involved. Turning clutter into cash can be one of the safest and most immediate solutions when you’re in a financial pinch.
Access your paycheck early
Many employers offer earned wage access (EWA) programs, which let you tap into the money you’ve already earned before your regular payday. You may be able to access your pay early through your HR department or your employer may partner with a third-party .
Ask about costs and repayment before you borrow. Fees are typically low (or optional), and interest charges are rare. Paycheck advances are usually deducted from your next paycheck. While they can help you cover urgent bills, groceries, or other expenses, you need to budget for a smaller payday.
Earn money quickly via side hustles
When a loan isn’t an option, side hustles can help you bring in cash fast – sometimes within the same day. If you have a car, consider driving for Uber, Lyft, or delivering for DoorDash or Instacart. Have skills in writing, design, or data entry? Platforms like Fiverr and Upwork offer freelance gigs you can start quickly. Even simple tasks like pet sitting, babysitting, or yard work can turn into immediate income through apps like Rover or TaskRabbit.
Many side hustles let you set your own hours and get paid quickly, especially if you choose options with instant payout features. The key is to focus on services in demand in your area or online. While this approach requires effort, it offers a safe and flexible way to make money without debt or long-term financial risk.
Unemployed but need cash?
Pawn valuables
When you need funds the same day, you can visit a . Take an item of value that you are willing to part with to the shop. Popular items include jewelry, electronics, musical instruments, or collectibles. The pawnbroker will provide you with a short-term loan based on the value of your item. You can reclaim the item by repaying the money with interest by the due date. Or you can sell the item outright. Selling the item usually nets you more cash.
Pawnshop loans are easily accessible with flexible credit evaluation or application. The catch is that they come with sky-high APRs and short repayment periods. While they won’t trap you in debt, you risk losing your item if you can’t pay.
Try a temporary balance boost app
These will advance you $50 to $500 on your upcoming paycheck without a credit check. They rely on your direct deposit instead.
Fees are often minimal, and interest rates tend to be nonexistent. Many apps will ask for either a subscription fee or an optional tip. If you’re desperate for money, you can also pay a additional fee for expedited funding and receive the cash the same business day. Otherwise, you’ll have to wait one to three days.
If you have direct deposit and need extra cash now, this can be a good option. Be sure to budget for a lower paycheck and be careful that the fees don’t add up too much.
Apply for a payday alternative loan
Certain federal credit unions offer payday alternative loans (PALs) as a safer choice than short-term loan due on your next paydays. These loans are from $200 to $2,000 and have repayment terms of one to twelve months. The APRs are capped at 28%, and the application fee cannot exceed $20.
PALs are ideal for credit union members with poor or fair credit who need a small loan. Most credit unions don’t consider your credit score and instead rely on your ability to repay to approve the loan.
Look for community loans
Community loans can provide valuable financial support. Local non-profits, credit unions, and community organizations often offer low-interest loans or grants to help with immediate needs. Explore these community-based options for a safer and more affordable solution. Make sure that the APR does not exceed 36% and that the repayment terms are reasonable.
Secure a personal loan
Credit unions, community banks, and with potentially lenient criteria. Personal loans often have a repayment period of two to seven years and come with a fixed interest rate. The APR ranges from 6% to 36%, and amounts vary from a few hundred to tens of thousands of dollars.
Personal loans are a good choice if you need to borrow a large amount and can get favorable terms.
Consolidate debt and save
If too much of your paycheck is going to paying off high-interest debts, then consolidation may help you save money. Debt consolidation is when you roll multiple debts into one. You take out a new loan at a lower interest rate and use the proceeds to pay off your debts. Or you can apply for a balance transfer credit card with an introductory 0% APR and transfer your outstanding balances onto the new card.
The idea is to simplify your monthly payments and secure a lower interest rate, thus saving money. Look for that offer favorable terms to increase your cash flow.
How can I get money if I’m struggling?
If you’re struggling financially, it can feel like there are no good options, but help is out there. Start by looking into community resources like food banks, rental assistance programs, or utility relief offered by local nonprofits or government agencies. Charitable organizations may be able to help with essentials and free up cash flow.
You can also contact your creditors to request hardship programs, payment deferrals, or lower monthly payments. Many creditors are willing to work with consumers, especially if you’re facing job loss, divorce, or other significant events.
Borrowing money is not always easy, but some lenders have more lenient criteria. Credit unions, local banks, online lenders, and peer-to-peer loans are all potential options.
Whatever you do, avoid high-cost loans that could worsen your situation. Predatory loans are those with unfair, misleading, or unaffordable terms that only serve to benefit the lender.
Are you looking for immediate loan options?
Avoid high-risk loans
Many people struggle to make ends meet each month, as they lack sufficient funds to cover all their bills and expenses. In this situation, it can be tempting to take out a . The problem is that many less than ideal credit short-term loans are from predatory lenders who charge exorbitant APRs – think short-term loan due on your next paydays. An expensive high-risk loan can worsen your financial situation.
Payday loans
may seem like a quick fix when you’re out of options. They are easy to get with flexible credit evaluation, fast approval, and minimal criteria, but come with extremely high fees and interest rates. The APR is over 600% in certain states. The majority of borrowers end up having to take out another loan to cover the first and fall into a cycle of debt.
Car secured loan using your vehicle titles
let you borrow money by using your vehicle’s title as collateral. You receive a loan of 25% to 50% of your vehicle’s value, often with flexible credit evaluation and same-day funding.
But they’re risky. Fail to repay, and you could lose your car. These loans typically come with high interest rates and short repayment terms, making them difficult to pay off without rolling over the balance.
Credit card temporary balance boost
Credit card temporary balance boosts are another instant high-cost option. You go to an ATM or your local bank branch and withdraw cash using your credit card. Most credit card issuers allow for this and give a separate credit limit for temporary balance boosts.
Temporary balance boosts come with multiple fees. There is a 3% to 5% transaction fee, an ATM fee, and a higher-than-usual APR. Plus, interest starts accruing immediately.
If you take one out, you need to pay it back fast.
Require quick cash help?
How can I borrow money without a loan?
Borrowing money without engaging with lenders is possible and can be your best option.
Visit a local charity or nonprofit
Many communities have resources designed to assist residents with essential expenses such as food, utility bills, and even rent. Look into local charities, nonprofits, and religious organizations.
For instance, food banks can reduce your grocery expenses, while some organizations offer one-time financial assistance to prevent eviction or keep the utilities running. These services are typically reserved for those in dire need. Call 211 to learn more about financial resources in your area.
Borrow from your retirement account
is technically a loan; you are borrowing from your retirement. 401(k) loans are not based on your credit score and tend to come with low interest rates and few fees. You also pay the interest back into your retirement account. Be sure to repay the money on time to avoid penalties, excess taxes, and to ensure your retirement savings remain intact.
Leverage your life insurance
If you have a whole or universal life insurance policy, you may be able to take out a loan against the policy’s cash value. This option allows you to borrow money without affecting the death benefit as long as the funds are repaid. The insurance company does charge interest on the loan.
Ask loved ones for a loan
Borrowing from friends or family can be the simplest, fastest, and cheapest solution. Most friends and family will not charge interest or fees. Before you go this route, you need to get a loan agreement in writing. Enter the loan amount, terms, frequency of payments, and the payment amount. Be sure to repay the money as agreed to avoid damaging the relationship.
Frequently asked questions
1. Where can I get money fast in an emergency?
For emergency funding, consider paycheck advances that provide a lump sum on the same day. Federal credit unions offer payday alternative loans (PALs) that are more affordable. No matter which loan you choose, make sure you review the terms carefully and can repay it as agreed.
2. What is the minimum credit score for emergency loans for low income families?
The minimum score required varies widely depending on the financial institution and the type of loan. Banks generally require good to excellent credit – scores of 670 or higher. Many credit unions and online lenders have more lenient requirements.
3. How can I receive funds once approved without a hard inquiry?
To get funds as soon as possible without a credit check, look into a payroll advance or temporary balance boost app. Both give instant funds as soon as possible with few fees, but you need to be employed.
4. Do I need good credit to get a loan without a job?
Having good to excellent credit can help you get approved, but it’s not necessary. No income loans are often based on other factors, such as previous financial relationships or collateral. Lenders will likely still consider your credit score to determine risk. Without income, you will likely face higher interest charges or need a cosigner.
5. How can I get some money right now if I can’t get a loan?
Consider borrowing from friends or family, requesting a paycheck advance, or selling valuables. Local community organizations often offer financial assistance or grants to those in need. Crowdfunding platforms can another viable way to raise funds quickly.
6. Who can help me with money urgently?
When you need urgent financial help, consider reaching out to local non-profits, religious organizations, community assistance programs, friends, and family. Government assistance programs and social services can also provide emergency aid when you don’t have money for food.
Bottom line
If you’re in need of money but have less than ideal credit, don’t give up hope. There are plenty of avenues to explore beyond traditional loans, and there are lenders who consider other factors besides credit scores. Visit your local credit union or find online loans with lenient requirements.
Research different types of loans and lenders. Make sure you check eligibility without affecting your score with at least three lenders so that you can compare rates, fees, and terms to find the best loan for you.
There are ways to get money when you need it, regardless of your credit or income. Although it may take some effort to find them, you will be able to access the cash you need.