While short-term loans are a quick and easy way to get some cash, they often make it difficult for people to get out of debt. High interest rates and fees often have people desperate for money finding themselves stuck in the cycle of debt and repayment. Luckily, there are many borrowing options that can help you avoid this. Even when you have no better option than taking out a loan, you should do your best to find one with reasonable interest rates.
It is important to resist credit loans for non-essential purchases. While short-term loans can make it worse when you need to pay for rent, bills, or other essentials, it doesn’t make sense for purchases like clothes or a night out either. Instead you should speak to a debt advisor or an organization that can provide help with debt advice for free.
Don’t spend more money to try to end your problems with money. If you need to borrow, there are the following options to help you avoid short-term loans. Still, according to specialists from MoneyPug, a site commonly used to compare loans, it is entirely possible to find a reasonable interest rate if you are forced to take a loan out.
Advance in Salary
The most common situation is when someone runs out of money before they get paid. If this happens to you, you always have the option to ask your employer for an advance. While every employer has their own policy, if you are receiving benefits you may be able to repay the advance with them. Your employer may say no, but it never hurts to ask. You may end up being surprised by their response.
Borrow from Loved Ones
Another situation is when an unexpected emergency occurs. In this scenario, it may be best to borrow money from your family or friends. That way you can take care of the emergency and establish a plan to repay the borrowed money. You should discuss what will happen if you take too long to pay it back and consider putting the agreement into writing to assuage trepidation.
Borrow from a Credit Union
Another affordable way to avoid short-term loans is borrowing from a credit union. This can be particularly beneficial because there is a limit on what credit unions can charge for interest in the UK. For example, they can charge three percent a month or 42.6 percent a year in England, Scotland, and Wales. It is even lower in Northern Ireland, with rates at one percent a month and 26.8 percent a year.
Use Credit
A credit card can be a very useful tool in order to borrow money, but it is key to keep up with payments. Otherwise you will find yourself deep in the rabbit hole of credit. Using a credit card for purchases and withdrawals can really help out, but the interest rates are still very high. If you keep your spending down, pay the bill every month, and use it only in dire situations, you will be able to effectively increase your credit score while avoiding debt. If you pay each month it will still be cheaper than a high interest short-term loan.
Authorized Overdraft
If you find yourself in a bind at the end of the week or month, you can always use an authorized overdraft on your bank account. While there will be hefty fees associated with overdrafts, they are still cheaper than repaying loans. Staying within the limit can help avoid fees. This should only be used in certain circumstances. Like other methods of borrowing it can lead to continued problems with money.
Welfare
Finally, another option to avoid short-term loans is applying for welfare. If you’re struggling to buy food, clothes, or heat your home, you will likely be approved for essentials. Varying from region to region, welfare can provide food at food banks, vouchers, pre-payment cards, and even furniture.
There are many options to borrow money. The chances are you don’t need to use high interest short-term loans. But if you find yourself in a bind and none of these options will do, make sure to get the best interest rate and the smallest amount of fees possible. You will thank yourself in the end.
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