Options When You Need Money

What Can Your Credit Score Get You?

Advance America offers quick borrowing options that you can take advantage of, whether you have a good or low credit score. 

From payday loans and installment loans to lines of credit and title loans, our products can give you the funds you need without the hassle, with funds in less than 24 hours after your approved application. You can apply online from the comfort of your own home. 

What Do You Have to Sell, Use, or Secure a Loan?

If you’re thinking “I need money now. What can I do?” consider your assets. You may be able to use them to get cash. Here are a few examples of assets that can potentially help you out.

When you own your car

Title Loans

As long as you own a vehicle with a title and source of income, you can take out a title loan. Your car’s appraised value will determine how much cash will be available to you. You’ll be able to continue driving your car while you repay your loan and you can apply for a title loan with Advance America and get paid out once your car gets appraised at one of our 1,500 U.S. locations. 

Ridesharing

If you don’t mind driving and have the time, you can use your car to give people rides through a ride-sharing platform like Uber or Lyft. You can also deliver groceries or restaurant meals through DoorDash, Instacart, or PostMates.

When you own your home

Home equity loan or line of credit

If you’re a homeowner, a home equity loan or Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) can allow you to borrow money against your home equity. Your home equity is the current value of your home minus what you owe on your mortgage. If you go this route, note that the application process is lengthy and it may take up to 8 weeks for you to get the cash. 

Renting your home or room

Another option is to rent out a spare room like an unused bedroom or basement. You’ll likely have to wait a while to find a trusted renter so this isn’t a good idea if you need money right away. 

When you own some valuable items

Sell your things online

Chances are you have clothing, electronics, jewelry, or other items that you no longer want or need. If this is the case, you may sell them on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or another online outlet. Keep in mind, however, that it may take some time to find buyers.

Garage or yard sale

If you have a number of items that could earn a bit of money, post a garage or yard sale notice locally and in online forums to attract a crowd. You can declutter as you earn funds, but may have to see how buyer’s respond before your sale gets you cash.

What Talents Can You Offer?

Do you have any talents or special skills that others might pay you for? Popular talents or skills may include:

Babysitting or elderly care

If you’re good with children or have experience caring for the elderly, advertise your services on Care.com or a neighborhood Facebook group. There are probably parents in your local area who would hire you to watch their kids when they’re unavailable or check in on older friends. 

Dog walking or pet sitting

Dog walking takes time that many dog owners simply don’t have. That’s where you come in. If you love dogs, offer dog walking services. One way to do so is through an app called Rover that connects dog owners with dog walkers. Especially in summer months, pet sitting can be an easy neighborly check in and walk with pets while their owners are away.

Home Improvement Projects

If you’re handy, people may utilize you to mow lawns, paint siding, fix toilets, and complete other tasks that will keep their homes in good shape. You can promote your handyman services on social media or through an app like TaskRabbit. 

Cooking and baking

Turn a passion like cooking or baking into a money making opportunity. You can offer catering services or bake sweet treats like cookies and cakes for people in your neighborhood. Create a website to showcase your offerings or share on Facebook in local groups.

Tutoring

If you have past experience as a teacher or a high level of expertise in a popular subject, offering tutoring services can be lucrative as you enhance the educational experience of your clients.  

How Can You Adjust Your Budget?

Sometimes, all it takes to find the money you need is an adjustment to your budget. These changes may help you discover extra cash.

Cut Costs

Determine what expenses you can reduce or completely eliminate altogether. To free up some cash flow, you may want to get rid of restaurant meals, cable, a gym membership, or anything else that isn’t a necessity.

Save

With a savings account, you won’t have to worry about what to do if you need money immediately. You’ll have the cash on hand to cover any emergency expense that may come your way. Try to dedicate a portion of each of your paychecks to savings. Saving $10 or $20 from each paycheck can add up to a hefty savings account over time. 

Negotiate Discounts

Don’t be afraid to negotiate with your internet provider, car insurance company, and other service providers. Since they want to keep you as a customer, they may be willing to reduce your rate. All you have to do is call them up and ask.