No matter how careful you are with your cash or how frugally you manage your finances, there’s always a chance you could find yourself in need of extra emergency funding, and fast.
Unexpected expenses, such as bills for medical care, repairs, and everyday expenses can put anyone in a sticky situation. For residents of New Jersey, it can be difficult to find extra money just by refining your budget, particularly when the cost of living is up to 12% higher than the national average. Fortunately, there are still ways to access cash quickly if you’re in a tough spot.
Here are just some of the best options you can consider if you need to deal with an emergency expense, and you don’t have time to wait for your next paycheck.
Consider a Personal Loan
Loans often suffer from bad reputation in the financial world. Nobody wants to end up in debt or paying high interest fees. However, the right personal loans can be extremely useful when you’re in a difficult situation. They help you to access the money you need instantly and spread out your repayments over a longer period. The key to success is making sure you choose your loan carefully. Research your available options, make sure you understand the terms offered to you, and create a plan for how you’re going to make each repayment on time in the months to come.
Spring Clean and Sell What You Don’t Need
One man’s trash is another man’s treasure. If you need to access extra money quickly, selling the products you have lying around your home, or gathering dust in your attic might be a great idea. There are markets out there for virtually everything you can think of, from second-hand tech like games consoles and smartphones, to old clothing. Check out some of the most popular online marketplaces, such as eBay or Facebook Marketplace. Alternatively, you can consider exploring more niche solutions depending on what you must sell. Vintage products can get attention on the Etsy platform. Don’t forget to check out local stores in your area that might purchase your used goods too. There are various great thrift stores located throughout the New Jersey region.
Grab a Freelance Gig
If you don’t have anything you can sell in your home, but you do have a little extra time, you might be able to make money quickly by searching for a freelance job relevant to your skills. NJ residents can make money online doing just about anything these days. You can sign up for sites to offer your services as a virtual assistant, voiceover artist, or graphic designer. Not only do freelance positions pay quickly, but they can adapt to your schedule. You can work at a time that suits you, from your own home, without having to worry about getting extra qualifications. You might even discover your side gig becomes a consistent source of extra income in the future, or you may choose to replace your standard nine-to-five job with a full remote work career.
About the Author/s
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.
