Probably everyone has faced financial emergencies at some point in life. Whether it’s a medical situation, car repair, or sudden unexpected bills, these situations may necessitate the need for fast cash. As much as such short-term financial needs can be daunting, there are quite a number of options that one could explore to solve their financial hitches other than payday loans in the UK. This article seeks to shed light on some potential alternatives to payday loans you could consider.
Credit Unions
Credit Unions are formed based on common affiliations such as the area of residence, work, or lot more factors. In most cases, such unions offer small, short-term loans that are well below the APR for traditional payday loans. If you’re part of a credit union, considering taking out a loan from them could be a viable option.
Ask for Employer Advance
Another potential alternative to payday loans is to speak to your employer and check if they offer pay advances to employees. In cases where your employer doesn’t have such programmes, you could discuss the possibility of an advance on your paycheck.
Personal Loans
A personal loan is another viable alternative you could consider. Different banks offer such types of loans which can have a repayment period ranging from one to seven years with a significantly lower interest rate than payday loans.
Overdrafts
If you have a current account, you may apply for an overdraft from your bank. While there can be fees attached, negotiated bank overdrafts can be far less costly than payday loans. Do ensure that you understand the terms and conditions associated with your overdraft.
Government or Local Authority Help
Depending on your situation, you may be eligible for financial help from the government or local authority. This could be in the form of emergency housing, food banks and more. It’s always worth checking to see what help may be available to you.
Regulated Credit Plans
Purchasing items on credit through regulated credit plans is another alternative you can use for borrowing money. These might be an option for buying white goods or furniture. Again, ensure that you understand all terms and conditions before signing up for a credit plan.
Conclusion
Whilst payday loans can assist in covering quick financial needs, they are not the only option and, depending on your circumstances, they may not be the best option. Exploring alternatives like those detailed in this article can help keep your financial health in check and possibly save you money. However, always ensure that any financial decisions you make are informed, taking into account your current economic state, interest rates and repayment timetables.
