6 Payday Loan Alternatives to Consider

Payday Loans can provide extra money when you need it, often with same-day or next-day funding. However, their interest rates and short repayment terms can be challenging to manage on a tight budget. 

While Payday Loans can be a good option for many borrowers, there are other options you might want to consider. 

How a Payday Loan works

A Payday Loan is a short-term, small-dollar loan meant to be repaid on your next payday. The amount you can borrow is based on your upcoming paycheck, which is usually no more than a few hundred dollars. 

Most Payday Loan direct lenders don't require you to have good credit. Since they handle the entire loan process in-house, you can often get your funds quickly, sometimes on the same day you're approved. 

TIP: Advance America offers same-day funding if your loan is approved before 10:30 AM EST. If you apply after 10:30 AM EST, you’ll typically receive the funds on the next business day. Discover your loan options today. 

6 Payday Loan alternatives

Knowing what Payday Loan alternatives there are is helpful if you want to explore different financial solutions or if Payday Loans are not available in your state. 

Alternatives can include other types of personal loans, payday alternative loans, credit card cash advances, or even seeking help from friends and family. If you need more financial assistance, you can consider these options instead of — or in addition to — a Payday Loan. 

1. Get a small personal loan 

While a Payday Loan is a type of personal loan, there are also Installment Loans, Lines of Credit, and more. If the only reason you’re applying for a Payday Loan is because you’re worried about your credit score, look into personal loans for bad credit. 

These loans are available to people regardless of their credit score or income level. Although they typically aren’t large-dollar loans, they’re enough to cover everyday essentials like groceries, gas, and food — or unexpected expenses like car repairs. 

2. Get help from family and friends 

If you have friends or family willing to help you financially, this is a good alternative to getting a loan. They typically don’t charge interest, won’t send a past-due debt to collections, and might be more flexible with your repayment plan. 

However, it’s essential to repay them as soon as possible to avoid straining or damaging relationships. 

3. Consider a payday alternative loan (PAL) 

If you’re a member of a federal credit union, see if they offer payday alternative loans (PALs). PALs are like Payday Loans in that they offer quick funding, are not credit-dependent, and are typically less than $1,000. 

However, PALs typically have lower interest rates and fees, making them an affordable option for credit union members. 

4. Research nonprofits and charities 

Depending on your financial circumstances and living situation, you might qualify for assistance from nonprofits and charities. These organizations can provide financial help or essentials like food and clothing. Consider these options: 

• The Salvation Army
• Habitat for Humanity
• Feeding America
• Family Promise
• The National Urban League 

Local churches, food kitchens, and other charities may be able to help. Check with the Department of Health and Human Services to find out which programs and services are in your area. 

5. Look for a side gig 

If you can’t pick up more hours at your current job or you’re too busy to work full-time, consider a side gig. 

Side gigs offer flexible opportunities to earn extra money in your spare time while managing your other responsibilities. Popular options include freelance web design, writing, house cleaning, pet sitting, and driving for app-based services like DoorDash and Lyft. 

6. Negotiate a payment plan 

If you’re short on funds between paydays due to outstanding debts, try negotiating with your creditors. Explain that you can’t afford your current repayment plan along with your basic living expenses. 

Lenders want to be repaid, so they’re often willing to negotiate. As long as you act in good faith and make an effort to repay your debt as quickly as possible, most are willing to work with you. 

Questions to ask before getting a Payday Loan 

There are several solid options to help you out of a financial bind. If you're unsure which option to choose, ask yourself the following: 

How much money do you need? 

Payday Loans and payday alternative loans offer fast funding but typically have a lower max borrowing amount than traditional loans. If you need more, you may need to pursue a different type of loan or seek help from friends and family. 

How soon do you need the money? 

If you need money quickly, Payday Loans, Cash Advances, payday alternative loans, and assistance from friends and family are your best options. If you can wait a few days or weeks, picking up a side gig or getting help from local charities are good choices. 

Will you need ongoing assistance? 

Each option mentioned is useful for a one-time financial bind. However, if you need ongoing assistance, consider applying for a line of credit to access funds over a longer period. 

Can you afford the fees or interest? 

If you want to avoid fees and interest rates, seek help from friends, family, and nonprofits. Any loan, no matter the source or amount, will have some form of fees and interest rates.