I Need Money Now: 12 Ways to Get Cash Fast

Author  Lorien Strydom

Editor  Abraham Jimoh

Reviewed by  Joe Chappius

Last updated: January 19, 2024

You need cash now but payday is still not here. What do you do? It might seem frustrating and stressful to be short on cash – but there are ways to get your hands on money fast.

Sell Your Stuff

One of the fastest ways to get some extra cash is to sell items you don’t really need. This can be spare electronics like a used tablet or phone, a laptop, or even household goods and furniture.

Leverage Technology:

1. List your items on Mercari, which caters to both local and distant buyers.
2. Use OfferUp for quick, local transactions to turn items into cash.
3. List on eBay to access a global audience, increasing the chances of selling specialty or high-demand items.

If you’re not ready to let go of your belongings, but need money only for a short period, consider pawning rather than selling.

Although pawnshop loans may not offer the best terms, they do serve as a quick and straightforward solution in urgent times. When you pawn an item, it’s held as collateral—safeguarding it temporarily—without the risk of a damaged credit score or the stress of persistent calls from debt collectors.

Get a Loan

Good credit can unlock a variety of personal loan offers, often with the convenience of same-day funding.

For individuals with poor credit, there are lenders who specialize in quick-financing options, typically with a maximum interest rate of 36% APR for those with lower credit scores.

In states where short-term lending is heavily regulated, tribal loans emerge as an alternative. These loans are provided by lenders based on tribal lands and are available to all consumers, not just those of Native American descent, offering a flexible solution regardless of credit history.

Take Online Surveys

Taking online surveys is a straightforward way to earn extra income right from your computer or smartphone.

By signing up on platforms like Survey Junkie, Swagbucks, or Toluna, you can start receiving surveys that match your profile.

The surveys vary in length and topic, from quick questions about daily shopping habits to more in-depth product reviews. While each survey typically offers small payouts, they can accumulate over time.

Participate in Focus Groups

Focus groups offer a more lucrative opportunity compared to online surveys. By sharing your thoughts on products or services, you can significantly impact their development and earn substantial compensation for your time.

Companies value the detailed feedback that focus groups provide, and they’re willing to pay for it.

Sign up with market research platforms like FocusGroup.com or Respondent.io to get connected with these paid sessions, which can be conducted online, by phone, or in person. It’s an excellent way to monetize your opinions and experiences.

Perform Micro-Tasks on Amazon MTurk

Amazon Mechanical Turk, or MTurk, is a crowdsourcing marketplace that connects businesses with a workforce ready to complete on-demand tasks that require human intelligence.

The platform offers a variety of micro-tasks, which can include anything from data entry and participating in surveys to more complex tasks like writing product descriptions or performing image and video analysis.

These tasks, also known as HITs (Human Intelligence Tasks), are typically quick and can be done at your convenience, making it a flexible way to earn money on the side.

Payment for completed tasks is deposited into your MTurk account, which you can then transfer to a bank account or to an Amazon gift card.

Recycle for Cash

Recycling centers offer payment for items like metals, electronics, bottles, and textiles, which can be lucrative if collected in bulk.

If you don’t have these at home, organize a community collection, offering to recycle neighbors’ and family members’ unwanted items. You can then share the profits.

For larger items like old cars, assist in the disposal process and negotiate a share of the proceeds. This not only pads your wallet but also clears clutter and benefits the environment.

Temporarily Postpone Non-Essential Bills

Explore the possibility of postponing payments with your creditors. Many service providers, such as those for utilities and cable television, do not impose interest on overdue balances.

By strategically selecting which bills to defer, you can reallocate funds to meet immediate needs more efficiently.

Ask Your Employer for a Payroll Advance

Consider asking your employer for a payroll advance. Many employers are willing to provide a paycheck advance to their employees, understanding that unforeseen expenses can arise.

This advance is typically deducted from future paychecks, with little to no interest. It’s a helpful way to get the cash you need without resorting to high-interest alternatives.

Just be sure to review the terms and repay the advance as agreed to maintain trust and avoid future financial strain.

Borrow from Your Retirement Account

Before you tap into your retirement funds, it’s important to understand the limitations and conditions. With IRAs, you’re allowed a once-per-year loan, provided you replenish the amount within a 60-day window.

Tread carefully with 401(k) borrowing. If your employer’s plan allows it, you might be able to borrow up to the lesser of $50,000 or 50% of your vested balance, typically with a five-year term for repayment.

Be mindful of the consequences: failing to repay on time could result in the loan amount being treated as taxable income.

Additionally, if you change jobs or are no longer employed, you may be required to repay the 401(k) loan promptly, a factor to consider seriously before proceeding.

Related: Read more about retirement accounts

Tap into the Online Gig Economy

The gig economy has revolutionized the way people earn money. Platforms like Uber, TaskRabbit, or Fiverr allow you to leverage your skills or free time to earn money on your own schedule.

Whether it’s driving for a ride-sharing service, completing tasks and errands for people in your community, or offering freelance services such as graphic design, coding, or writing, these platforms connect you with those in need of your abilities.

The beauty of the gig economy is its immediacy and flexibility. You can often start earning quickly after signing up and going through a simple verification process. Plus, you have the power to choose your hours, making it possible to fit work around other commitments.

Do Odd Jobs for People in Your Community

Building on the flexibility of the gig economy, sometimes the fastest way to earn cash doesn’t involve an app or a sign-up process. It’s about tapping into immediate, local needs.

By exploring the ‘gigs’ section on Craigslist, you can find quick, one-off jobs that often pay out the same day.

Additionally, don’t underestimate the earning potential of going door-to-door in your area, offering to tackle tasks on the spot. Whether it’s a car wash, yard work, or a quick home organization job, your direct action can solve someone’s problem instantly, translating to immediate cash in hand.

Donate your Plasma

Donating plasma is a viable option for those looking to make money quickly while also contributing to a good cause. Plasma is a vital component used in a variety of medical treatments, and there’s always a demand.

Most donation centers compensate donors for their time, typically allowing them to donate up to twice a week. The process takes about an hour and involves drawing blood, separating the plasma, and returning the remaining components back to your body.

Before donating, ensure you meet the health and eligibility requirements. It’s a simple and lifesaving way to earn extra cash and support healthcare treatments.

I Have No Income and Need Money Right This Second

If you don’t have a reliable income, you can consider no-income loans and compare different lenders to get the best rates.

If you don’t have a credit history a personal loan isn’t always your only option. You can get a cosigner for a loan, borrow from family or friends, or ask a non-profit program for assistance.

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