Loan Alternatives

Loan Alternatives: Other Ways To Get Funding

Getting a loan from a bank or online lender is one option when you need money, but it’s not the only option. Here are some loan alternatives to consider when you need cash.

Borrowing From Friends and Family

Borrowing money from friends and family can be an easy way to get funds when you’re in a bind. According to posts on r/personalfinance, many people have gotten short-term loans from friends and family to cover expenses like medical bills, car repairs, or other unexpected costs. The advantages are that you may be able to get funds quickly without a credit check or collateral. The downside is that it can damage relationships if there are disagreements about repayment terms. Be sure to formalize the loan with a promissory note.

401(k) and Retirement Account Loans

If you have money saved in a 401(k) or IRA retirement account, you may be able to borrow against it, says this Quora post. The benefit is you pay the interest to yourself instead of a bank. The risk is if you leave your job, the loan may need to be repaid quickly. Consult a financial advisor to understand the tax implications.

Home Equity Loans and Lines of Credit

If you’re a homeowner with equity, a home equity loan or line of credit allows you to borrow against the equity in your home. The pros and cons are that interest rates may be lower than other types of loans, but you risk losing your home if you can’t repay the debt. Home equity borrowing also has tax deductions.

Hard Money Loans

Hard money loans are asset-based loans provided by private investors rather than banks. They are easier to qualify for, but have higher interest rates and shorter repayment terms. Hard money loans require collateral like real estate or other assets. They work best for short-term financing needs.

Peer-to-Peer Lending

Peer-to-peer lending networks like LendingClub and Prosper allow individuals to lend money directly to borrowers. Borrowers apply online and lenders choose which loans to fund. Rates can be better than credit cards. Peer lending requires strong credit scores. There is a risk of default.

Title Loans

Auto title loans allow you to borrow against the equity in your car. Typically you can borrow up to 25-50% of the car’s value and the lender places a lien on the title. The advantage is fast cash. The downside is the high interest rates if you can’t repay the loan quickly. Be cautious with title lending.

Cash Advance Apps

Apps like Earnin, Dave, and Brigit provide cash advances against your next paycheck. There are usually no fees unless you opt for instant transfer versus standard 1-3 day transfer. These apps connect to your bank account to evaluate income and expenses. They carry some risk of overdraft fees.

Credit Card Balance Transfers

Many credit cards offer 0% intro APR balance transfer offers. This allows you to transfer high-interest debt from another card onto the new card. It gives you a 12-18 month reprieve to pay off debt without accruing interest. Be mindful of balance transfer fees.

Personal Loans

Personal installment loans can be obtained from banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Rates vary from around 5% to 36%. These unsecured loans allow you to borrow a lump sum and repay over 12-72 months. Qualification requires good credit – scores of 670+ are ideal. Shop rates from multiple lenders.

Company Sponsored Financing

Some companies offer financing programs that allow you to make big purchases (like appliances and furniture) then pay over time. Examples are Affirm, Klarna, and financing through major retailers. Rates can be 0% or reasonable – around 10-30% typically.

Medical Credit Cards

There are credit cards designed specifically to finance medical procedures including CareCredit. Many allow interest-free periods after which deferred interest kicks in if not fully paid. These cards require instant approval and allow you to start treatment quickly. Ensure you understand exact terms.

Crowdfunding Loans

Sites like GoFundMe and Fundly allow people to create fundraisers to borrow money from friends, family, and public supporters. This can work for medical bills, funeral expenses, or business ideas. Many crowdfunding platforms are free to set up but collect optional tips. You need marketing skills.

Cash from Odd Jobs

Sites like TaskRabbit, Thumbtack, and Handy connect you with people willing to pay for help running errands, minor home repairs, deliveries, and other tasks. These gig jobs offer flexible ways to earn extra money, though the income may be inconsistent.

Cash Advances from Credit Cards

Most credit cards provide the ability to get a cash advance from an ATM using your card. This can give you quick access to several hundred dollars. The downside is cash advance fees and sky-high interest rates from the minute you withdraw cash – around 25-30% typically. Use this option only as a very last resort.

Auto Pawn Loans

What to Consider When Evaluating Loan Alternatives

When you need money, it’s tempting to jump at the first loan you qualify for rather than exploring alternatives. Comparing all options can save you money. Here are key factors to consider with any financing option:

• Interest rates and fees: Lower rates reduce your total repayment costs. Avoid options with high origination fees.
• Qualification requirements: Each type of financing looks at factors like income, credit score, and collateral differently when approving applicants.
• Repayment timeline: The longer you have to repay a debt, the more manageable payments may be. Fast repayment times can strain cash flow.
• Risks and downsides: Every loan has pros and cons. Take the time to thoroughly understand the risks like collateral seizure, job loss impacts, or relationship fallout.

Additionally, make sure to carefully read all loan and credit agreements before signing. Get clarity on interest calculations, exact repayment terms, fees for late payments, and other key loan details that impact your rights and responsibilities as a borrower.

Explore Multiple Options When Seeking Financing

As shown above, you have many alternatives beyond standard bank loans and credit cards when you need to borrow money. Friends and family, retirement account loans, home equity lines of credit, hard money lending, peer-to-peer platforms, cash advance apps, balance transfers, installment loans, medical credit cards, personal lines of credit, crowdfunding, credit union lending, and other emerging fintech options are available.

Weigh the pros and cons of each in relation to your specific borrowing needs. Gather quotes from multiple lenders when possible. And remember – just because you qualify for a particular loan type or credit line does not mean it is the optimal financing solution for your situation. Conducting research, asking questions, and understanding all aspects of any borrowing option you consider can save you money over both the short and long-term.

Resources

• This video provides additional tips on loan alternatives to explore before getting a standard personal loan.
• For more information, read this in-depth guide on “15 Best Alternatives to Personal Loans” over at WalletHub.
• This article from NerdWallet also provides a good overview of options beyond traditional lending.