With holidays and winter expenses piling up, you may find yourself a little strapped for cash. Affording presents, travel, holiday outings and simple bills can seem impossible at times. If you are unlucky enough to get hit with a surprise home repair or auto accident, you may find yourself in an especially tight situation. So how do you ensure you have money when you need it right away? Included here are a few ways to secure quick cash when those tough situations hit.

Payday Loans

While some people find themselves filling with dread at the idea of a payday loan, they can be a necessary evil at times. Payday loans are known for having high interest rates, so borrowing $100, could leave you owing $150 in a week or two. However, if you find yourself with a bill that has a late fee higher than the interest rate on a payday loan, you could end up better off. Not to mention, late fees on credit cards can damage your interest rate and credit.

Baby or Pet Sit

While you may not be making millions cleaning up after kiddos, babysitting does offer the promise of quick cash. If you have friends who need a night off, they may be willing to pay you for the evening to help you earn a few dollars. If kids really aren’t your thing, consider pet-sitting. With websites like Rover, you can advertise yourself and home to house puppies overnight with rates starting at $30.

Yard Work

If you live in a warmer climate or have extra time in the summer months, walking around your neighborhood with a lawn mower good earn you some quick cash. You can work on your tan, tone your arm muscles and earn a little extra cash on the spot. In winter months, heading out with a snow shovel and salt can be just as lucrative.

Find a Temp Agency

Many temporary labor agencies have the option to get you a job day of where you will be paid at the end of the day. You may not be making a lot over minimum wage, but you will be getting cash in your pocket after a good day’s work. To be successful, some agencies require that you arrive by 5:30am to secure a job for the day. You will be matched based on your skillset, so you don’t need to worry about being out of your depth.

Plan for The Future

The best way to deal with unexpected expenses is to plan for them. Most experts recommend you have an emergency fund that will cover 6-8 months of expenses. To begin, though, you should aim for a $1,000 emergency fund that will help you handle car repairs or minor house issues. Planning for problems before they arrive is a great way to save money and time when bills come due.

Categories: General