 TITLE: How to Get a Small Loan CONTENT: Small Loan Alternatives\n-----------------------\nIf you have good credit or better, a small personal loan may be the most cost-effective way to cover your expenses. But if you don't, loans might not be the best way to borrow and you might consider looking into other options.\nFor instance, credit card debt can be expensive to repay but may offer a lower interest rate than what you'll pay for a personal loan. Using your credit card also means you won't need to wait for the money to be disbursed or pay an origination fee.\nYou could also look into opening a new card that has a promotional 0% annual percentage rate (APR) offer on purchases, which may let you borrow money without paying any interest during the promotional period.\nOther options include:\n*   **Negotiating with creditors**: You could ask your creditors if they offer any hardship programs, which could temporarily lower or pause your payments. These can help you free up money to cover an emergency expense.\n*   **Help from nonprofits**: Look for local and national organizations or programs that could help you find resources or that offer direct assistance. You may be able to get help paying for necessities, such as utilities, rent, medical bills, medications and food.\n*   **Credit counseling**: Nonprofit credit counseling organizations can connect you with a trained counselor who can help review your finances and explain your options. If you're struggling with unsecured debt, such as credit card bills, the counselor may be able to negotiate with your creditors.\n*   **Get early access to your pay**: You may be able to get an advance on your next paycheck by asking your employer or using an early payday app. Some options limit how much you can receive, however, and it might not be enough to cover a large expense. It could be a good option if you need a small loan.\nIn the end, any method you can use to increase your income or decrease your expenses could help you get the money you'd otherwise receive from a small loan—while at the same time sparing you the expense of fees and interest. END