 TITLE: How to Get a Small Loan With No Credit CONTENT: Alternatives to Small Loans When You Don't Have Credit\n------------------------------------------------------\nIf you don't have a credit history, applying for a personal loan isn't your only option. Here are some other alternatives for getting the money you need.\n*   **See if someone will cosign on a loan with you.** Persuading a friend or family member to cosign on a loan could be the answer to your problem. The cosigner promises to pay the loan back if you fail to do so. You'll need a cosigner with a good credit score to make up for your lack of credit. Just be sure you pay the loan back, or you risk damaging credit scores for both you and your cosigner (as well as your relationship with them).\n*   **Consider borrowing money from friends or family members.** Is a friend or family member willing to lend you money? Write up an official loan document and pay back the loan back on time. Be sure the person can afford to lend you the money—and can afford to lose it if you can't repay the loan.\n*   **Look to nonprofit programs for help.** Are you in the military or a family member of someone who is? If so, you might qualify for assistance from a military aid society. The Army Emergency Relief, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, Air Force Aid Society and Coast Guard Mutual Assistance offer service members in need grants and interest-free loans. If you're not affiliated with the military, local community service agencies and charitable organizations sometimes provide loans or financial assistance.\n*   **Ask your employer for a cash advance.** Not to be confused with a payday loan, a _paycheck advance_ is a cash advance from your employer that is repaid through deductions from future paychecks. Some employers offer this service, often through third-party lending companies. Generally, all employees are eligible for the same interest rates and loan terms no matter what their credit score. Bonus: If the third-party company your employer uses reports to the major credit bureaus, repaying your paycheck advance can help improve your credit score. Just make sure you understand the interest, fees and repayment terms. END