Nowadays, who doesn’t need extra ways to get cash?  Even if you’re one of the lucky Americans that have a great paying job- it seems there’s no guarantee anymore. In a recession, it’s always a good idea to put away extra money whenever you can.  Here are a few ways to get cash in addition to your day job:

1. Have a garage sale. Go through your old junk and get rid of anything you haven’t used in the last year. Odds are, if you haven’t used it in the last year- you probably won’t use it in the year to come. So, why have it hanging around when you could pocket the cash?

2. Checkout local job boards or websites like Craigslist for odd jobs. Sometimes people are willing to pay pretty decent money for quick and easy tasks- like moving furniture.

3. Consider taking on a part-time job on the weekends. You may be surprised at how many companies just need a little help for a few hours on the weekend.

Although these may seem trivial- the money will add up. And, if a rainy day should arise- you’ll be ready.

With bills piled high, most Americans find themselves scrambling at the end of each month trying to figure out how to pay them. And, with an unexpected car repair or medical bill, it can be outright overwhelming. In a tight situation, which is better: a credit card? Or, cash advance?

Generally, a credit card is a better way to go. The interest fees on a credit card are going to be lower than a cash advance. Even with “high-interest credit cards”, the rates will likely be lower than those of a cash advance. A personal loan will likely have interest rates upwards of 300%.

When you can, it’s a good idea to setup a savings account and put a little money away each month. That way, when unexpected bills arise, you’ll be prepared with money in the bank.

Do you have a student in high school or college? With school almost done for summer break, chances are they’ve asked you for money. Whether they need the extra cash for summer camp, the latest gadget, or that road trip they’ve been talking about for the past six months- they’ve probably hit up the bank of mom and dad on numerous occasions. If you’re like me, you’ve had to put your foot down this summer. The economy terrible, your budget as tight as ever, and you simply cannot afford to fund their summer excursions. You’re not alone. But what do you do?

No parent wants to see a frown across their kids’ face, nor do they have millions of dollars lying around. And, no parent wants to see their children rot on the couch for weeks on end either.

Solution: encourage him or her to get a summer job! Warn them about the dangers of opening up credit cards or taking out a cash advance. They’re much better off checking local job boards for odd jobs around town. That way, they get out of the house and they’re funding their own activities!

Cash Advance Tricks and Traps and How To Avoid Them!

In a pinch and need a new car? Many times, we can afford the monthly payment but can’t come up with enough cash for the down payment. Nowadays, most people don’t have $1,000 to spare for a down payment.

You need a car to get to and from work- what are your options? Is a personal loan a good idea?

Short answer: Probably not. And, this is why:

A personal loan is intended to be used as a last resort. If you’re already strapped for cash, chances are that you won’t be able to make the loan payments. If you can, try asking family and close friends for a short-term loan. Sometimes, families are willing to pitch in and help you out in a tough time.

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More information on how to get a cash advance.

Rather than imposing on family or friends for the money, a payday loan may be the perfect solution. Or, is it? As tempting as it is, taking out a payday loan for a vacation isn’t a great idea. Payday loans have extremely high interest rates. And, consequently, that dream getaway will cost you far more than you imagined. Instead, it’s a much safer idea to put a little money away each month. Or, have a garage sale. Most of us have stuff laying around that we haven’t even looked at in years- let alone used. And just think- you’ll feel more organized and free of pesky clutter!

Payday loans are intended to be used as emergency loans, to tie you over until your next paycheck.

Ways to budget your money.

Basically, when a lender refers to you as “subprime”, he or she is actually saying that your credit history is flawed. In other words, you may have outstanding loans, credit card debt, or have been late on some of your bills. Nowadays, most people have less than perfect credit. So, don’t beat yourself up.

As a “subprime” borrower, be aware that you will likely be charged higher interest fees for any line of credit. Whether you’re applying for a credit card, personal loan, payday advance, or auto loan- higher interest rates will apply.

To avoid paying higher fees, the best thing to do is pay off your credit cards, repay any outstanding loans, and minimize any additional debt. Also, it’s a good idea to create a savings account and add to it each paycheck. That way, instead of financing big purchases, you may be able to pay cash-  saving you a lot of money in the long run.