What to Do When You Need Some Emergency Cash

Filed in archive Saving on March 4, 2009

Photo courtesy of iStockphoto, Image# 1955894

If you are desperate for some cash, there are often some things that you can do to make money. While the more common places to get money - such as getting a loan - may be a little more convenient, they usually are not the best.

You may want to consider some of the following:

* Sell something of value - sell it on eBay, but try to get something out of it - and don't go for the lowest price possible. You really will not get a good deal from a pawn shop. You can also advertise in the paper.


Photo courtesy of iStockphoto, Image# 303088



* Trade - give an item of value for a service or trade from someone who has what you need.

* Get a part time job or do some chores for someone else to make money - people often have needs that you may be able to meet.

* Have a yard sale - remember that some yard sales are also indoors and there may be one of these operating year round near you. If you do not have a lot of stuff to sell, get a neighbor to have a yard sale together with you.

* Make and sell a craft item - consignment shops may take some items from you or sell them on eBay. You can also sell them at yard sales, too.

It is not advised that you get a payday loan unless you are very sure that you can pay it off when it is due. They charge high interest rates - as much as 30% - and they can affect your credit rating, too.

If you find yourself continually short of cash, it means that you either need to change your spending habits, or get a job and make money that will support your current lifestyle. Having Emergency Cash available can help you get over those occasional rough spots.