 TITLE: How to Avoid Payday Loans CONTENT: Alternatives to Payday Loans\n----------------------------\nIf you need cash to help you cover expenses until your next paycheck, consider these alternatives to payday loans.\n*   **Apply for a personal loan.** Credit unions and other lenders may be willing to lend you the money you need, even if you have bad credit. If you don't belong to a credit union, look into local credit unions in your area and find out if you qualify (you must be a member of a credit union to apply for a loan there). Other lenders, including online loan providers Avant and Upstart, offer loans to those with fair or poor credit, often starting at $1,000 or more.\n*   **Reach out to friends and family.** If you need a smaller amount to get you to your next paycheck, consider asking a family member or close friend for a loan. Even if it's an uncomfortable conversation, this could be a good option, as long as you put the loan agreement in writing and stick to the terms you've agreed to. Because this option could potentially negatively impact your relationship, proceed with care and avoid agreeing to any repayment terms that you think you may be unable to fulfill.\n*   **Research local resources.** Contact a local nonprofit or organization that helps individuals with short-term financial concerns. If you're unable to afford groceries for the month, reach out to a local food pantry. You can call 311 to find out about local services or do an online search for resources in your area. If you think you may need longer-term help, look into general financial assistance programs.\n*   **Talk to your job's human resources department.** Your employer may provide short-term loans to employees. Larger organizations may have short-term financial resources available or guidance on how to connect with organizations within your city or town that may be able to help you.\n*   **Explore early payday apps.** These may be offered by your employer, an online bank or other companies. Early payday apps typically provide a portion of your pay before your payday or a service that allows you to take small advances on your future income. While not a long-term solution, early payday apps offer a lower-cost alternative to payday loans.\n*   **Borrow from your credit card.** If you have credit available on your credit card and know you'll be able to pay off the amount you need fairly quickly, you may consider a credit card cash advance. Before using this option, check to see what interest you'll pay on the advance, since many cards charge higher interest on cash advances than on regular purchases.\nBefore letting fear impact your decision, take a step back to review your options and do some research. In addition to the above options, this could include reaching out to see if there's a way to negotiate the terms of your unexpected bill or working out a payment plan. If you have some time to take action, consider selling items you no longer need, such as lightly worn clothing items, exercise gear or tools. Or pick up a side hustle to help tide you over. Staffing a one-time event, participating in a focus group, or offering services such as cleaning, cooking, online tutoring or pet sitting are all potential options. END