Life has a way of throwing curveballs when you least expect it. Whether it’s an unforeseen expense or a financial shortfall, scrambling for fast cash can be overwhelming. Fortunately, there are practical and effective ways to ease the burden and regain control.
How to get cash fast
Sudden expenses – like car repairs, medical bills, or urgent home repairs –can quickly drain your bank account. Thankfully, there are safe, practical ways to get cash quickly without turning to risky options. From selling items to taking on short-term work, here are 20 simple and effective strategies, ranked by how fast you can get started.
1. Sell spare electronics
Do you have old tech lying around? Turn it into cash! Sell laptops, phones, or gaming consoles through platforms like Swappa or Gazelle.¹ For a faster turnaround and cash-in-hand, visit local stores or kiosks like GameStop or ecoATM.
2. Exchange unused gift cards for cash
You can quickly convert those unused gift cards in your wallet or buried in your email inbox into money. Use online platforms like GCBuying or kiosks like Coinstar Gift Card Exchange or ecoATM for same-day payment. Search “gift card exchange kiosks” plus your zip code to see what is available in your area.
3. Pawn something to get paid fast today
Pawnshops offer cash loans for valuables like jewelry, antiques, power tools, gaming systems, or musical instruments. After determining the value of your item, the pawnshop will lend you cash in that amount and keep the item. You’ll get the item back if you repay the loan within a specific time. If not, the pawnshop will keep and sell the item to recoup their money.
4. Work for fast cash today
Same-day labor is a reliable way to earn money fast. Offer services – like lawn care or cleaning – to neighbors or find quick gigs on TaskRabbit or Craigslist. Workforce centers can connect you with immediate employment opportunities, including temporary or gig work that may offer quick payment. Also, some fast-food chains partner with apps like DailyPay to provide employees access to earned wages before their standard payday.
5. Seek community grants and assistance
Community organizations and nonprofits offer grants or aid for essential needs like housing, utilities, or groceries, making them a lifeline during tough times. If you’re facing eviction or utility shut-offs, local programs may help you bridge the gap. Reach out to nearby organizations to explore your options and take the first step toward financial relief.
6. Ask for forbearance on bills
Requesting forbearance on utilities or credit cards won’t give cash directly but frees up funds for other needs. Many creditors process requests quickly and could offer payment deferrals or temporary hardship programs. Contact your providers to discuss options like reduced interest or extended deadlines.
7. Request a payroll advance
If you are in the middle of your pay period but need cash, some employers offer payroll advances so you can withdraw part of your paycheck early. Contact your HR department to check if this is an option.
Apps like Earnin, Empower, or Dave offer early access to earned wages and can provide a quick cash boost. Be mindful of potential subscription fees, expedited funding charges, or other costs.
Be cautious of payroll advances that resemble payday loans. These often have high fees and interest rates, with annual percentage rates (APR) of up to almost 400%.²
8. Use a credit card cash advance
Credit card providers often allow cash advances, which let you withdraw cash up to a specific limit. To qualify, you must typically have your account in good standing. Be aware of fees and higher interest rates associated with cash advances. This option provides immediate access to funds, but you should use it cautiously to avoid debt accumulation.
Find out how to get cash back from your credit card and weigh the pros and cons of this quick cash option.
9. Look for a payday alternative loan
Federal credit unions offer Payday Alternative Loans (PALs), a safer option than traditional payday loans. PALs feature lower interest rates and flexible repayment terms, although they typically have loan caps. These loans can provide quick cash without the risks of doing business with payday lenders.
Explore Chime’s online payday loan alternative for safer ways to access funds when you need them.
10. Get a personal loan
Personal loans offer fast funding, with many lenders providing same-day or next-day cash. Interest rates depend on your credit score, so compare terms to find the best deal. Personal loans don’t require collateral, which may lead to higher interest rates, but good credit can likely help you secure a reasonable rate.
If you’re considering borrowing, here’s a straightforward guide on how to apply for a personal loan.
11. Rent out a room
Rent out extra space using apps like Airbnb or Vrbo to earn income. Airbnb, for example, offers Fast Pay for quicker payouts. This feature is only available in the United States and may involve a small processing fee.³ Before listing your property, check local regulations regarding short-term rentals.
12. Moonlight as a dog sitter
If you enjoy animals, dog sitting or pet walking can bring in extra cash. Platforms like Rover and Wag! connect you with clients who need help with their pets. Advertising through word-of-mouth, Facebook groups, or local bulletin boards could also quickly generate leads —and potentially, cash.
13. Become a rideshare or delivery driver
Earning money by driving or delivering is a great way to make money fast today. These gigs allow flexible hours and often pay out quickly, with some offering daily payment. Here are some options:
- Drive for a rideshare company such as Uber or Lyft
- Work for a grocery delivery service such as Shipt or Instacart
- Deliver food through a company like DoorDash or Grubhub
14. Cut your insurance premiums
Reviewing your insurance policies could help reduce your monthly expenses. Compare quotes from different providers and ask about discounts for bundling auto, home, or other policies. Switching to a higher deductible plan can also lower your monthly premiums, although you should still make sure you can afford the out-of-pocket cost in case of an emergency.
15. Consolidate your debt
Combining multiple debts into one loan with a lower or promotional 0% interest rate can simplify payments and improve cash flow. Options include balance transfer credit cards, personal loans, or home equity loans. Debt consolidation works best if you avoid taking on new debt and commit to paying off the consolidated balance.
16. Change your cell phone plan
Switching to a lower-cost cell phone plan can save you money quickly, freeing up cash for other, more immediate bills. Look into options like Straight Talk with cheaper prepaid plans, getting on a family plan, or calling your provider to negotiate loyalty discounts.
17. Sell items around your house
If you have unused items around your home, a garage sale or online platforms like Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, or Nextdoor can quickly help you earn cash. Selling things like furniture, clothes, or collectibles is relatively straightforward. While there’s no guarantee of how much money you’ll make or how quickly, the benefit is that this method also helps you declutter your space while generating extra cash.
18. Refinance your student loans
Refinancing student loans with a private lender can lower monthly payments or interest rates. This option is ideal for borrowers with steady income and good credit. However, refinancing federal student loans means forfeiting benefits like income-driven repayment or loan forgiveness. Carefully weigh the pros and cons before proceeding.
19. Dip into your retirement accounts
Some retirement accounts permit penalty-free withdrawals in cases of financial hardship. For example, you may be able to access funds for medical expenses or to avoid foreclosure. Contact your provider to find out if you’re eligible for these provisions and how to access the funds quickly.
Curious about how much you should be saving each month? Check out this guide for insights.
20. Borrow against life insurance
Permanent life insurance policies allow you to borrow against the policy’s cash value while you’re still alive. While this can be a viable option, it reduces the payout your beneficiaries will receive, so it’s generally considered a last resort. Term life insurance policies, on the other hand, do not offer this option, as they don’t accumulate cash value.
Tips to keep in mind if you need money today
Navigating your options thoughtfully is important when you’re in a financial bind. Here are a few tips to keep in mind to protect your financial health while attempting to make fast cash:
Beware of predatory lenders
Avoid lenders offering payday loans or cash advances with sky-high interest rates. These can trap you in a cycle of debt that will be difficult to escape for years to come. Not worth it! Instead, choose options that remain within your budget and have the highest likelihood of putting you “in the green” again.
Only borrow what you need
Whether you take out a loan or use a credit card cash advance, limit your borrowing to the exact amount required to address your emergency. This can help minimize repayment stress and prevent your debt from snowballing out of control.
Read the terms and conditions carefully
Before agreeing to any loan, cash advance, or financial product, make sure you understand the fees, interest rates, and repayment terms. Read the fine print! If you need help understanding your options, contact organizations that can help decipher your financial documents. For example, the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) can connect you with a non-profit, certified credit counselor.⁴
Getting cash fast doesn't need to be difficult
Facing an urgent need for money can be stressful, but many strategies can help you access funds quickly. Whether you’re looking to borrow money instantly, sell unused items, or take on temporary work, the key is to choose a method that aligns with your financial situation.
Once you understand your options and start planning ahead (instead of playing catch-up,) you can begin making decisions that support both your immediate needs and long-term financial well-being.
For more insights into managing your finances, check out the 100 envelope challenge.
FAQs
Can I get a credit card cash advance immediately?
Most credit card providers allow you to take out a cash advance immediately at an ATM, but you’ll need a PIN. If you haven’t set up a PIN yet, visit your local bank branch to get the cash instead. Be aware that you may pay fees and higher interest rates for this type of transaction.
Is borrowing from life insurance a good idea?
Borrowing against life insurance can be a viable option, but it reduces the payout your beneficiaries receive in the future. Consider all other options first and consult a financial advisor if you’re unsure.
What are the fastest ways to get cash now?
The fastest ways to get cash now include pawning belongings, selling gift cards at kiosks, getting a payroll advance, or taking on same-day work.
What are the risks associated with payday loans?
Payday loans often have high interest rates and fees, making repayment extremely challenging. Always consider less predatory alternatives first, such as community assistance programs or personal loans.