We’ve all been there. You have a medical emergency, an unexpected car repair, or simply bills are due and there just isn’t enough money to cover them, leaving you in dire need of quick cash. It’s a stressful situation. You feel anxious, helpless, and desperate to find any way to cover expenses until payday.

If you have less-than-perfect credit, it’s even harder to get fast cash. But nothing’s impossible. To address this predicament and give you a financial boost until payday rolls around, we’ve compiled a list of resources you can rely on to secure emergency cash when you need it most.

1. Ask For a Payroll Advance

If you have a good relationship with your employer, ask for an advance on your salary. It’s not a loan, so it doesn’t come with any fees or interest and you repay it via payroll deduction on your next paycheck. Explain your situation honestly and propose a repayment plan. Many employers are willing to help their employees during times of financial hardship. Some even offer low-cost loans for financial emergencies.

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2. Cash Advance Apps

More and more cash advance apps are popping up specifically designed to help people access quick cash. Apps like Dave, EarnIn, or Brigit offer cash advances or short-term loans with low or no fees and no credit checks. They connect to your bank account and use algorithms to determine how much money you can borrow based on your income and spending habits. Then offer instant cash often up to $250 or even $500.

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3. Take Out a Personal Loan

If you need a larger sum of money, a personal loan could be a viable option. While traditional banks and credit unions offer personal loans, online lenders have become increasingly popular. Some lenders can even finance a personal loan in a day! If you have bad credit, be prepared to pay higher rates but you will be able to find fast funding.

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4. Sell Your Stuff

Take a look around your home and see if there’s anything you don’t use anymore but could sell for some quick cash. There’s a market for everything: old electronics, jewelry, vintage clothing, outdated appliances, you name it. You can sell them online through platforms like eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace. If you need money even faster, consider pawning your valuables or participating in local auctions or pawn shops.

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5. Credit Card Cash Advance

If you have a credit card with available credit, a cash advance can provide quick access to cash. It’s basically a short-term emergency loan. You withdraw cash from an ATM or visit your bank to get an advance. Keep in mind that credit card cash advances often come with higher interest rates and fees (3% to 5%) compared to regular card purchases.

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6. Gig Jobs for Quick Cash

A lot of gig jobs pay you daily and the more effort you put into it, the more money you’ll make. The work is generally flexible; you get to make your own schedule. Work evenings and weekends or whenever you’re free. Plus most gig workers earn more than minimum wage! There are plenty of gigs to choose from; be a delivery driver, a tasker, a grocery shopper. So find one that suits your skill sets and earn that extra cash.

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The Bottom Line

Emergencies can be financially devastating and incredibly stressful. Fortunately, there are several ways to get your hands on quick cash when you need it most.

If you don’t have an emergency fund, don’t despair. See if your credit card will offer an advance or maybe your employer can spot you until payday. There are options – even for those of us with bad credit. If you just want a little cash to tide you over, check out the latest cash advance app or if you need a tad more, you can find a personal loan for less-than-perfect credit.

Do you continuously need a little extra each month? Maybe it’s time to take on a side hustle to help make ends meet. Whichever way you go, these options can provide you with the financial lifeline you need during tough times.

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.