Key takeaways
- Same-day personal loans from online lenders and credit unions can help cover rent when you’re in a financial bind.
- Options like cash advance apps and employer paycheck advances may offer fast funding with fewer fees.
- If you have bad credit, emergency cash is still possible, but it’s important to compare lenders and avoid high-cost traps.
Realizing that you don’t have enough money to pay rent is a stressful and all-too-common experience. The National Low Income Housing Coalition found that 70% of extremely low-income families are heavily cost-burdened. These households pay more than half of their income on rent, which is unsustainable.
Fortunately, you have options to get the money and prevent eviction. Rental assistance programs can help you make ends meet and find affordable housing. Many lenders offer same-day approval and funding for rental loans.
Let’s go over where you can find loans to help you stay afloat and rental assistance programs to explore.
1. Personal loans for rent
Personal loans from online lenders or credit unions can help you cover rent in a pinch. These are typically installment loans for larger amounts that you repay over a few months or years. The fixed monthly payments make them easier to budget for. Most legitimate lenders will offer APRs under 36%, even if you have bad credit.
Many online lenders offer same-day approval and funding, especially if you apply in the morning. Some specialize in working with consumers who have less-than-stellar credit or no credit history at all.
Credit unions frequently offer loans with competitive interest rates and more lenient requirements. Some provide hardship loans for bad credit to members in need. Federal credit unions cap interest rates on personal loans at an 18% APR.
While you can get a personal loan with bad credit, expect higher interest rates, additional fees, and fewer options. Many lenders charge origination fees ranging from 1% to 12% of the loan amount and may impose prepayment penalties.
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Funding within hours or days
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Longer repayment terms
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Equal monthly payments
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Some lenders accept borrowers with bad credit
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High APRs for poor credit borrowers
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Some lenders charge origination or prepayment fees
2. Payday loans for rental assistance
If rent is due and you’re out of options, payday loans may seem like a quick fix. These short-term loans are easy to qualify for and provide small amounts of cash instantly. Typically, all you need is a pay stub and an active checking account; however, a prepaid debit card may also suffice.
Small payday loans online are fast, but they come at a high price. Lenders charge a finance fee of $10 to $30 per $100 borrowed and require repayment within two weeks. The high fees, coupled with short loan terms, cause most borrowers to take out a second loan to cover the first.
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Instant access to cash
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Minimal requirements
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No credit check
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No collateral
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Extremely high fees
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Short repayment window
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Easy to fall into a cycle of debt
3. Cash advances for rent payments
When you’re short on rent and payday is still days away, cash advance apps can bridge the gap. These apps link to your bank account and review your transaction history to determine how much to lend you. You can usually advance from $20 to $500 interest-free and without a credit check.
Cash advance apps have varying fee structures. Some charge a flat fee or subscription fee, while others rely on optional tips. If you choose an app with a monthly subscription fee, make sure you will benefit from its other features.
The best cash advance apps can help you cover urgent expenses without incurring high fees. Look for apps that do not charge mandatory fees and will not overdraft your bank account. Some apps offer overdraft protection, while others allow you to change the due date for free.
The key to using cash advances is to keep your costs as low as possible. When you request an advance, only leave a small tip or none at all. Also, give yourself a few days to receive the money. That way, you can avoid paying a fast funding fee and get your cash for free.
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Minimal fees
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No interest
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No hard inquiry
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Instant transfers
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User-friendly apps
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Advance limits are often under $250 for new users
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Optional tips and express fees can add up
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Requires proof of steady income or bank activity
4. Emergency loans for rent
Emergency loan options can be a lifesaver when rent is due and you don’t want the high expenses of a payday loan. Many online lenders and credit unions offer loans with same-day or next-day funding. Often, you can apply in the morning and receive approval and funding in the afternoon.
While it’s an emergency, take the time to compare rates and terms to ensure you get the best deal. Most lenders offer instant prequalification with only a soft credit check. You can gauge your chances of approval without impacting your score.
Alternatively, you can formally apply for a few loans simultaneously. Credit bureaus consider multiple applications for the same type of loan made within 14 to 45 days as a single inquiry. Instead of multiple hard inquiries, you will have one on your credit report.
Comparing loans is vital, as many lenders that provide bad credit loans charge higher rates and fees. Verify that the loan is affordable before borrowing and establish a payment plan.
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Approval and funding are often within 24 hours
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Can cover the entire rent
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A wide range of credit scores is accepted
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High APRs for poor credit borrowers
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May require proof of income or employment
5. Instant credit card funds
If you’re short on rent, learning how to get cash from a credit card could give you fast access to emergency funds. You visit an ATM or bank branch to withdraw cash up to a specific limit. Since you already have the credit card, there’s no application process.
Can't get a credit card?
Credit card cash advances can help you cover rent, but use them cautiously. Your issuer will charge an advance fee, and interest will accrue immediately.
Cash advance fees range from 3% to 5% of the amount withdrawn or $10, whichever is greater. The APR is higher than usual, coming in close to 30%. Even small advances can become costly.
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Receive cash instantly
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No separate application
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No credit check
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No due date
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High APRs and transaction fees
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No grace period
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May reduce your available credit and hurt your score
6. Pawn shop loans
Pawn shop loans are a quick way to turn valuables into cash, requiring no credit check and minimal documentation. They are secured loans where you borrow money against the value of the item you bring in. Typically, the loan you receive will be only 25% to 60% of the item’s worth. Repay the loan within 30 to 90 days, plus fees, to reclaim your valuable.
While convenient, pawn shop loans can be risky since if you’re unable to repay on time, the pawnbroker will keep your item. The fees can also add up to a high APR, although not as high as those of payday loans. Lastly, you would receive more for your item if you sold it to the pawnbroker outright.
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No hard inquiry
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No proof of income
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Quick cash
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You won’t go into debt if you default
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Loan amounts are limited by item value
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High interest rates and fees
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Risk of losing property
7. Employer paycheck advances
Ask your employer about a paycheck advance. Some companies offer early access to earned wages with little to no fees. They will deduct the advanced amount from your next paycheck.
Employer paycheck advances can be one of the least expensive ways to receive emergency cash immediately. While they are a safer solution, you need to budget for a smaller payday. Not adjusting your budget can lead to a cycle of borrowing.
Not all employers offer paycheck advances. If yours does not, consider looking into an Earned Wage Access (EWA) app. These apps advance you money you’ve earned but haven’t been paid yet. Some apps work directly with your employer, while others require an electronic timesheet to track your hours.
Paycheck advances from your employer or an EWA app can help you make ends meet, but not overpay for them. You also need to be careful not to become overly reliant on early wages.
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No interest or credit check
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Direct access to earned wages
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Doesn’t impact your credit score
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Not all employers offer this option
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Reduces your next paycheck
What to do if you need money to pay rent tomorrow
When you need money to pay rent tomorrow, consider borrowing it or looking into financial assistance programs. State and local organizations can provide rental assistance or help with other bills to free up cash.
- Call 211 for assistance in locating available resources in your area.
- Your local Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) office can help with utility bills.
- The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers programs to assist with rent payments.
Local charities, nonprofits, and religious organizations can also provide assistance with essential needs. If they don’t help with rent, they may assist with groceries or utility bills, which can free up money to pay your landlord.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can you get a loan for rent?
You can take out a loan to help cover rent. Most personal loans can be used for any purpose, including paying rent or bills.
2. What happens if I can’t pay the rent?
If you can’t pay rent, your landlord may charge late fees or begin eviction proceedings. Beyond eviction, a landlord can sue you in court to recover unpaid rent.
3. How to find help for a rent emergency?
Call 211 to find local rental assistance programs. Non-profit organizations such as the Salvation Army, United Way, or Catholic Charities often provide emergency rental assistance. HUD-approved housing counseling agencies can also offer guidance on your housing options and resources.
4. Where can I get a loan to pay my rent?
Online lenders and credit unions often offer personal loans on the same day. Many will consider applicants with less-than-perfect credit.
Bottom line
Paying rent builds credit and helps you avoid eviction, but it can be costly. If you cannot afford your bill this month, speak with your landlord immediately. You may be able to work out a solution, such as payment plans, waiving late fees, or extending the payment deadline.
You can always take out a loan or an advance to pay your rent and get back on track. If you decide to borrow, ensure that the loan is affordable and establish a payment plan. Defaulting on the loan can land you in a worse financial situation.
Better yet, consider accepting support from the government or non-profit organizations. These organizations help low-income households cover rent and utilities. You’ll avoid eviction without taking on debt.