There’s no denying that times are tough out there right now, and money is harder to come by then ever. A majority of Americans, studies show, can’t handle more than a $400 emergency without going into debt, which has led to a number resorting to credit cards, personal loans, and online title loans.

If you’ve hit rock bottom and are wondering how to scrape together enough cash to dig yourself out of your financial hole, then this is the article for you.

Personal Loan

None of us want to be a burden on our friends or family, but if you’ve truly hit rock bottom, then you may have no choice but to ask them for financial help. While obviously not ideal, often friends and family won’t charge you the punishing interest rate most other loans or credit cards would for the same amount.

If you are able to secure a loan from a friend or family member, it’s important that both you and them are clear on the total amount of the loan, when it will be paid back, and what the interest rate will be. It’s generally a terrible idea to mix the personal with the professional, but if you do have to then it’s best that expectations be clear on both sides so no resentment can creep up and grow through miscommunication.

Unemployment

Though this option is limited to those who have been recently fired, if you have the option, you should file for unemployment as soon as possible. It provides a free form of income, and though the amount often won’t be enough to keep you whole on its own, the goal here is to bring in whatever cash you can.

The other limitation with unemployment as a source of income is that in most states unemployment is limited to a three-month span, after which point you’re again on your own. While you’re on unemployment some states also make you show that you’re actively searching for a new job, which can be an issue if you’re unable to work for health, childcare, or other reasons.

Title Loan

One of the best fast cash options for those who have nowhere else to go is online title loans. There are a few reasons why they’re so useful. First, they’re fast. Often you can be in and out of a title loan location in as little as a half-hour. Second, they’re accepting of all types of credit, which is immensely helpful to those who may have had their traditional loan applications rejected at a bank because of their low credit score.

Thirdly, title loans are simple. The process can be started online (thus why they’re often referred to as online title loans and requires only a few simple items to be complete. Title loan locations are also plentiful and often only a few minute's drive away from your current location.

Pawn

Often our possessions hold more value than we give them credit for, and if you’ve hit rock bottom, it’s time to start cashing in on that value. There are a few ways to do just that, each with varying strengths and weaknesses.

• Pawnshops are the best place to unload valuables like jewelry, electronics, or anything that costs upwards of $100, to begin with. While they have something of a seedy reputation and atmosphere, there’s no denying they can be quite useful in a pinch.
• Garage sales are better suited for multiple low-value items like clothes and household knick-knacks. Just draw up a sign, plant by the nearest road with clear instruction to your house, and set your alarm clock for early next Saturday when you’re likely to get the best traffic.
• Online seller sites like eBay or Amazon are best for potentially, but not necessarily, valuable items like books or trading cards. These items might be worth a lot or a little, and the last thing you want to do is sell a rare and valuable book for pennies at a garage sale.

Hustle

The final way to start bringing cash in is simply to start a side hustle. This can vary from freelancing your skills on a site like Fiverr, taking up driving for Uber, or even just knitting sweaters to sell on Etsy. We all have skills that aren’t necessarily big money makers but can provide a trickle of income and at least a handful of cash.

Note: The content provided in this article is only for informational purposes, and you should contact your financial advisor about your specific financial situation.