6 Emergency Cash Options For Unexpected Expenses
Unexpected expenses can range from a missing tile on the roof, or a broken-down car to catastrophic medical bills, natural disaster damage, job loss, or divorce. Almost anything you'd consider an emergency can become an unforeseen outgoing, potentially wreaking havoc on your finances if you don't have a flush emergency fund.
Yet, you do have options. Contrary to popular belief, you don't need to flounder during monetary hardships; there are options out there to help you get back on your feet, regardless of the challenges you face. In the following sections, we'll uncover six emergency cash options that will help you cover unanticipated emergencies.
6 Ways To Cover Unexpected Expenses
1. Credit Cards
Granted, using your credit card to fund emergencies isn't always the best idea. However, it can be useful if you have a good credit score and can qualify for a card offering a 0% APR introductory duration (usually ranging from six to 21 months).
Depending on the bank, it could provide enough time to pay off the expense and avoid any interest, but you'll need to be meticulous about your repayment schedule. Keep in mind that the interest rate will jump to whatever the bank's ongoing interest rate is after the introductory period.
2. Salary Advance
For times when you're just a bit financially pinched, you can ask your employer for a payroll advance. A salary advance is when your employer gives you an advance that you repay through payroll deductions on future paychecks.
The timeframe you have to pay back the advance will be stated in your company's policy — you won't be surprised to learn that some businesses are more generous than others. Alongside the duration, the policy tends to set interest rates and loan terms that are equal for all employees, regardless of credit scores. As such, they present a great alternative to other personal loans.
3. Borrow From Life Insurance
If you have permanent life insurance (e.g., whole, variable universal, or universal life), you might be able to access some of your policy's cash value when to fund unexpected expenses. The best part about this method is that withdrawals may be tax-free, provided you don't take out more than you've paid in.
Withdrawing more than the cash value can have devastating impacts, including lowering your death benefit! On top of that, the interest rates for these schemes usually range from 5% to 8%.
You aren't under any obligation to repay it. However, failing to pay it back before you die will cause the outstanding balance to be removed from your death benefit.
4. Home Equity Loan
Home equity loans allow you to transform some of your house's equity into money. This should only be considered as a last-resort option, though, as you risk losing your home if you're late to repay.
Most providers let you borrow up to 85% of your home's equity (i.e., the difference between your property's worth and what you owe) and other outstanding loans against the premises. You'll receive your funds as a lump sum, but it's repayable in equal monthly installments over a pre-agreed period. Interest rates on home equity loans tend to be competitive, however, you won't be able to qualify if you don't have a good or excellent credit score.
5. Payment Plans
This option's viability depends on the type of unexpected expense you're dealing with. Sometimes, you might be able to devise a payment plan.
For instance, emergency bills that come from service providers, particularly medical care, can usually be paid in regular weekly, biweekly, or monthly installments (plus interest). That said, you might be able to repay medical debt without interest or fees, provided you stick to the payment plan.
6. Payday Loans
Last but certainly not least, you can get a payday loan from us at Fast Payday Loans, Inc. We let you borrow $100 to $1,000 without a good credit score, helping you get the money you need for unexpected outgoings. The process is as follows:
- Complete the online form on this website.
- We will give you a call to discuss the process, answer any questions, and ensure you have the items you'll need to qualify. Unlike other providers, we don't ask for long lists of documents. Instead, you can gain approval with just your government-issued identification, blank check, and your most recent pay stub.
- Then, head to your local Fast Payday Loans, Inc. storefront or continue the process on the phone. Either way, you'll need the documents.
- We'll analyze your documents to figure out how much you qualify for.
- Sign the paperwork.
- Finally, the money you need will hit your bank account on the same or the following bank day.
Fund Emergencies With Fast Payday Loans, Inc. Now!
Whether you choose a home equity loan, payment plan, or credit card, you'll be able to pay for unexpected expenses. But if you're looking for one of the fastest options, opt for one of our payday loans. You can do the whole process over the phone!
To get started right now, complete the online inquiry form and a loan representative will call you soon after to give you details and answer all your questions.
Note: The content provided in this article is only for informational purposes, and you should contact your financial advisor about your specific financial situation.