Fast Funds – 5 Ways To Get Your Hands On Extra Cash When You Need It

Sometimes the time between one payday and the next can seem to stretch out like a sticky piece of bubblegum. And when the cupboards are empty, the kids need new school supplies, and the rent is due, you may need to get your hands on extra cash fast. What can you do to find the funds you need without taking out a high-interest loan or racking up money on your credit card? Here are a few ideas that might come in handy.

Clear Out Your Garage

Do you have an old car sitting in the garage that is missing parts or doesn't run anymore? Maybe it was written off, and you haven't gotten around to doing anything about taking it to the wreckers. Do some research and find somewhere in your local area that offers cash for cars. You can make some money and clear out the yard or garage at the same time. Most places will take cars, utes, trucks, or vans in any condition.

Sell Old Clothes Online

Most of us have a wardrobe rack full of items we don't wear anymore. They might be old work clothes for the office job you had before kids, or that formal dress you wore to a function once. Maybe you have some jeans waiting for you to lose weight and fit back into them, or a jacket that is far too warm for the climate where you live. Now is the perfect time for a cleanout. Find a spot in your house with lovely natural light, take some photos, and list them online. Depending on what you want to get rid out, you could consider eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Craigslist.

Start A Side Hustle

Lots of people make good money doing a job on the side. Your side hustle could be anything from taking in ironing, stacking shelves at night at your local supermarket, walking your neighbors' dogs, starting a babysitting service, or even using your daytime job skills to pick up extra contract work.

When I was at uni, I signed up for a local paper round in the lead-up to Christmas to save up extra spending money. The rate wasn't incredible, but the extra cash sure did come in handy. Many jobs can be done online from the comfort of your own home. Look out for transcription or data entry jobs, but research each company before applying to ensure you avoid side hustle scams.

Take Out A Small Interest-Free Loan

Don't be sucked in by the instant cash ads on TV. Most of these offers come hand-in-hand with exorbitant interest rates and inflexible repayment schedules, leaving people in a cycle of debt that is difficult to escape. If you're in a tight spot, do plenty of online research to find a loan you can live with. Some non-profit organizations offer interest-free or fast cash loans online with flexible repayment terms.

Visit The Pawn Shop

If you need a small amount of money to tide you over until your next payday, you could visit your local pawnbroker and drop off some jewelry or electronic goods in exchange for a loan. Keep in mind that these stores may be impacted by the current coronavirus outbreak and have additional restrictions in place about what products they can accept. Check online or give them a call before you head in to find out.

If you can find a way to avoid getting into credit card debt or taking out high-interest loans, you will be in a much better financial position in the future.