If you’re lacking cash in your emergency fund to cover an emergency expenditure taking out an emergency loan could be an excellent alternative. The majority of these types of loans will provide rapid and easy access to money. Some also come with flexible repayment terms that permit you to make smaller monthly installments.
But, all Emergency Cash Loans don’t come with the same benefits.For example, while some offer lower rates of interest for those who have the right qualifications, some have rates of up to 400 percent.Before you make a choice, find out the ways these common emergency loans function and think about other options.
Four types of loans for emergencies
1. Personal credit
Personal loans are provided by lenders like banks, credit unions , and banks that are online. When you take out a personal loan you get funds in an amount in one lump sum which you pay back in monthly installments. In addition to the principal amount you borrowed, you also pay interest and charges.
A benefit of personal loans is the ability to pay back a large amount over a longer time.The terms of repayment vary from lender to lender but are typically as quick as one year, or up to seven years for those who qualify.
Another advantage is that you’ll get funding quickly Some lenders will provide loan funds within the next business day.
But, the main drawback is that when you have a low credit rating, you might be required to pay a higher APR (interest and fees).Certain lenders have maximum APRs that exceed 30 percent.
Who is this best is: Borrowers that are seeking rates with lower interest than credit cards, and higher limit of borrowing that doesn’t need collateral.
| Pros | Cons |
| Access to cash quickly | Interest |
| Typically, it doesn’t need collateral | Fees |
| Certain lenders offer flexible repayment terms. | It is possible that you will not be able to qualify for personal loans if you have a poor credit score |
2. Cash advances with credit cards
Credit cards, when utilized in a responsible manner, can prove useful devices in the case in the event of an emergency. Some credit cards come with an option to cash advance that allows you to withdraw cash at the ATM or branch of a bank. The amount of cash you are able to get is restricted by the percentage of your limit on the card or a maximum limit.
Cash advances on credit cards carry higher rates of interest than the variable APR on your card. Because the cash advance is linked to your current credit limit on your card, it does not require a credit check.
Which people is this most suitable is:Cardholders that already hold credit cards in good condition and who require loans of smaller amounts. This could be a viable option for cardholders who have an existing credit score isn’t enough to allow for a new credit line.
| Pros | Cons |
| The same day funding | High interest rate |
3. Payday loans
These are kind of loan that is instant and allows you to borrow a smaller amount (usually just a couple thousand dollars). The repayment period for these types of loans is extremely brief usually within two weeks or prior to the time you get your payday period.
This type of loan is typically deemed to be risky due to the high interest rates. Based on the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, payday loans usually offer interest rates of up to 400 percent.
Which people is this most suitable is:Borrowers that require small amounts of money and who can repay the loan in full within a short amount of time. If it is possible payday loans must be avoided. Instead look into other options for emergency loans.
| Pros | Cons |
| It’s easy to qualify for because many lenders don’t require credit check | High interest rates and sky-high inflation |
| Rapid financing | Short repayment period |
4. Title loans
Another type of loan for emergencies is one called a title loan. These are loans secured by the make use of your car’s name as collateral (hence the title). If you’re not able to repay the loan by the time the loan expires — usually 30 days, the lender could take possession of your vehicle to pay off the due.
Additionally, you can use your vehicle to get this short-term credit, Title loans come with higher interest rates, similar to payday loans. Based on the Federal Trade Commission, title loans have rates as high as 300 percent.
What is it best to use it for?Consumers that want to get a small amount of money and pay off their loans within one month. A title loan may be a good option for borrowers who are unable to get other kinds of loans for emergencies, however it’s best to consider it an option only in the last instance.
| Pros | Cons |
| Cash is easy to access | Rates of interest that are high |
| Some lenders don’t require a credit check | A lender could take over your car if you fail to pay on the loan |
Which loan for emergencies is best for you?
Of the four types of loans for emergencies discussed earlier Personal loans are the lowest cost per dollar to get a loan.
While the rate of interest you’re approved for will depend on your credit score however, interest rates for personal loans are still significantly less than title or payday loans. Personal rate currently ranges between three and 36 percent. The average rates is 10.46 percent at the time of writing on September 8 2021.
If a personal loan with no collateral isn’t an option look into other the possibility of a loan for emergency situations.
Alternatives to loans for emergencies
1. Home equity loan or line of credit (HELOC)
If you’ve accumulated sufficient equity on your property, then you may be qualified to receive an equity loan for your home or a home equity line of credit (HELOC). Based on the appraised value and the amount you’re remaining on your mortgage, you could be able to take out hundreds of dollars.
An installment loan for home equity is one that provides lump-sum funding, a set rate of interest and repayment time that can last 30-year terms. A HELOC is an revolving line of credit that you can borrow money from for a predetermined period of time, like 10 years with the option of repaying up to 20 years following.
Both kinds of loans use homes as collateral which could put it at risk of being foreclosed should you fail to repay the loan.
Who is this ideal is:Homeowners with large loan amounts to pay for essential costs such as repairs or renovations to their home or educational costs.
| Pros | Cons |
| Home equity loan rates are usually lower than average personal loans and credit card rates. | You must have a certain amount equity in your home. |
| Flexible terms for repayment | Lender could seize your home if you fail on the loan |
2. Payment plans
If the urgent need for a loan arises as due to an unexpected expense then a payment plan could be an alternative to the emergency loan. As an example, suppose you’re faced with a huge medical bill that is too expensive to pay for in full. It is possible to negotiate a more manageable payment plan with your healthcare provider’s department of billing or accounting.
What is it best is: people who have the ability to pay for big expenses by making smaller monthly payments and longer time frames for repayment. This option is great because it does not put you in debt.
| Pros | Cons |
| Certain plans for payments come with interest-free terms | You could be charged for an interest rate or fee |
3. Paycheck advance
Certain employers provide pay advances which are also referred to as payday advances, via the department for human resources of the company. A payday advance will provide you with funds up-front from the future earnings. Based on your employer’s payroll advance agreement as well as your state’s laws, your loan may be deducted automatically from your pay in installments.
If your employer has this option, it may be subject to limitations in the amounts available and the frequency at which advances can be made.
Who is this loan is ideal to: Individuals who need small, short-term loans . They also are employed by companies that provide this type of loan.
| Pros | Cons |
| Certain employers offer interest-free pay advances | Not offered by all employers. |
4. Family member or friend
A loan from a relative or friend member is a tough choice. It’s a possibility which can help deal with unexpected expenses. If you have a friend or family member who is willing to provide you with urgent cash, you can sit down with them to be all on the same page regarding the repayment terms.
Discuss whether they prefer to be paid in one lump sum, or if installment payments are acceptable. If the latteris the case, how long do they want to let you repay the entire loan? And what amount do they anticipate to pay for each installment? It is also advisable to inquire whether they’re planning to charge an additional charge in addition to the amount of principal.
Who is this best to use it for?Those having strong bonds with relatives or family members who will assist.
| Pros | Cons |
| A family member could cost you little or nothing, but there is no cost of | A default on the loan could end relationships with lenders |
Next steps
In addition, taking on loans to cover an unexpected expense could be an extremely difficult situation to deal with when you’re not able to pay back the loan in an emergency. Before deciding which types of emergency loans would be appropriate for you, think about if you can save up for the cost in the first place.
If you’re not able to save money then look for an emergency loan that has the lowest interest rates and only take out the amount you require.
