Having an emergency fund is important. However, most of us neglect saving money for future emergencies. What can you do if you do not have an emergency fund? Where can you acquire the money to use in case of an emergency?
Fortunately, there are many options that can help you acquire cash during emergencies. Many lending companies are willing to lend you money during these times. Some means don’t require you to apply for a loan using a simple friend loan agreement template. These options are sure to assist you during a financial emergency.
5 Ways to Acquire Emergency Money
Whenever you need funds during an emergency, but do not have enough on hand or in your account, there’s nothing to worry about. Remember that there are things you can do to obtain extra funds and address any emergency needs.
Acquire a Loan
The fastest way to acquire cash for emergency purposes is to apply for a loan. You can choose from many options, such as personal loans, credit card cash advances, and payday loans. However, acquiring a loan can be a bit challenging and needs a lot of requirements. One of these requirements is having a good credit score.
A personal loan is the most common loan a lot of people apply for. It is a type of loan that you can use for different purposes, especially during emergencies. Most lenders offer instant cash that will be released within 24 hours from the time your application has been approved. In contrast, some lenders take longer when releasing the cash, usually after three days from approval.
If you have a credit card, you can also use it for emergency cash. You can tap your available credit and request a cash advance. Interest rates from credit card cash advances differ from card to card providers.
Some cards charge higher interest rates for a cash advance. Moreover, interest rates from cash advances accumulate immediately and don’t have a grace period, unlike when you purchase using your card.
On the other hand, payday loans are short-term loans that offer an emergency cash advance for bad credit borrowers. This loan option will only require you to submit proof of income. For payday loan lenders, having a steady income is more valuable than a credit score.
Liquidate Your Assets
If you happen to own valuable items like jewelry, designer clothes, shoes, or bags, you can use them for quick cash. You can sell these items to your relatives and friends or utilize online platforms to sell your valuables. Selling them can provide you quick money without having to worry about monthly payments and interest rates.
Your stuff isn’t the only thing you can liquidate. Electronics and gadgets, such as television, tablets, and laptops, can also be sold for quick cash. Depending on its quality and condition, you can earn big bucks in selling these items.
Borrow from Families or Friends
Although acceptable, it’s not advisable to borrow money from your friends and families as it can damage your relationship with them if you can’t pay back what you owe. You will be risking your reputation and your assets, and your relationship with them will suffer if everything goes south.
However, if a family member or a friend is more than willing to help you out, make sure that you’ll set an agreement. The agreement should indicate when you will pay, if you’re going to pay it in full, or if you will pay it in installments.
To avoid ruining relationships, you must follow what was agreed upon. Always put your relationship first, and do not go into an agreement that you know you cannot fulfill on time. If you think you can’t fulfill the agreement, be honest and upfront about it.
Government Funding and Non-Profit Organizations
The government can provide emergency cash assistance for free, meaning you will not have to pay for what the government will give you. The government offers assistance to cover your grocery bills and housing costs. They also have other programs that aid healthcare, utilities, and education.
There are also non-profit organizations that are willing to help you during an emergency. Take note that these non-profit organizations may still impose interest rates, but expect it to be minimal. Search for local charities or organizations that you know will help you with whatever financial emergency you are in.
These organizations are willing to help you in paying utilities, hospitalization, medications, and other necessities. However, joining an organization will not guarantee that you can quickly receive the money since members take turns in receiving the fund.
Advance Paycheck
You can always ask your employer for an advance paycheck. If you are a good employee, some employers will not hesitate to give your paycheck in advance because they know you work hard for the company. However, don’t expect that it’ll be this way all the time. Before you even ask for an advance, make sure you do it properly and respectfully.
Writing a letter indicating the reasons for your advance is a must and a good way to get you started. Afterward, you may be subject to a meeting with your company’s decision-maker or finance officer.
Takeaway
Emergencies are inevitable, especially the ones that involve money. For this reason, knowing your options in acquiring quick cash during these emergencies is crucial. Even if you may or may not have an emergency fund stacked somewhere, it is still important that you know how and where you can quickly acquire cash.