Can’t Qualify for a Personal Loan? 4 Alternatives to Try

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Personal loans provide fast, unsecured funds that can pay for anything from home repairs to medical emergencies. Instead of requiring collateral like a house or car, many lenders prefer applicants with strong credit and high incomes.

But what if you don’t meet a lender’s requirements? People who don’t qualify for a personal loan have alternatives to high-interest, predatory lenders. These options can help cover an income gap, but each comes with pros and cons.

1. Try Non-Borrowing Options

See if you can come up with the money by making room in your budget and pulling in some extra cash, says Tania Brown, an Atlanta-area certified financial planner and financial coach. Review your budget for any expenses you can cut, even temporarily, like dinners out or streaming services.