Need Money Fast? 15 Ways to Get Cash Today
Real ways to get cash fast in California, sorted by how quickly the money shows up, with what each one costs.
A surprise bill, a car repair, rent that is due before payday. When you need money fast, the best option depends on how soon you need it and what it will cost you. Here are 15 real ways to get cash, sorted by speed, with the tradeoffs spelled out so you can pick the right one.
Quick answer
The fastest ways to get money today are selling something locally, pawning an item, cashing out gig work, a credit card cash advance, or a short term loan online, which can send money as soon as the same day if you are approved.
- Faster usually costs more. The free options often take a day or two longer.
- Free help is real: 211, CalFresh and utility discounts can free up cash within days.
- Every option below shows how fast it works and what it costs.
- Skip anyone who promises guaranteed approval or asks for a fee up front.
Pick by how fast you need it
Fastest: cash within hours
Within a few days
Takes longer, saves you more
Fastest: cash within hours
1Sell something you no longer need
Phones, game consoles, tools, furniture and designer items sell fast on Facebook Marketplace and OfferUp. Price a little below similar listings, offer local pickup and ask for cash or an instant payment app. Meet in a public place; many police stations have safe exchange spots.
2Pawn an item
A pawn shop lends you cash on the spot against jewelry, electronics or tools. Your credit is not checked, and you get the item back when you repay. If you do not repay, the shop keeps the item, so only pawn something you can live without.
3Cash out gig work
If you already drive or deliver with apps like DoorDash, Instacart, Uber or Lyft, pick up extra shifts and cash out your earnings the same day. Many apps charge a small fee for instant cash out. Signing up as a new driver can take several days because of background checks.
4Borrow from friends or family
A quick loan from someone you trust is often the cheapest option. Agree on the amount and a payback date in writing, even in a text, so there is no confusion later.
5Get a short term loan online
If you need $100 to $255 and get paid soon, a short term loan can bridge the gap. At Cash in Flash you apply online in about 5 minutes, get a decision in minutes, and see every fee before you sign. If you are approved, the money goes to your bank account, or to your debit card with instant funding. You repay it in one payment on your next payday.
Borrow $100 to $255 online
- Decision in minutes
- Money as soon as today
- One flat fee, shown before you sign
6Take a credit card cash advance
If you have a credit card with a cash limit, you can withdraw cash at an ATM right away. Expect a cash advance fee and interest that starts the same day, usually at a higher rate than regular purchases.
Within a few days
7Ask your employer for a payroll advance
Some employers advance part of your paycheck, or offer an earned wage access app that lets you take pay you have already earned before payday. Ask HR or your manager what is available.
8Try a cash advance app
Cash advance apps can advance a small amount against your next paycheck. Limits often start low, and standard transfers can take a few days unless you pay for instant delivery.
9Sell unused gift cards
Gift card exchange sites and kiosks buy unused cards for cash. You will get less than the card is worth, but it turns something sitting in a drawer into money you can use.
10Ask for more time on a bill
If you need cash because a bill is due, call the company before the due date. Utilities, phone and internet providers, and many landlords will set up a payment arrangement or a short extension. That frees up cash for the bill that cannot wait.
11Call 211 for local help
Dial 2-1-1 from any phone in California to reach a free, confidential line that connects you with local help for rent, utilities, food and other emergencies.
12Get grocery help with CalFresh
CalFresh puts money for groceries on an EBT card, which leaves more of your cash for other bills. Households with very little money may get benefits within 3 days. Apply online at BenefitsCal.com or GetCalFresh.org, and visit a local food bank for help right away.
Takes longer, saves you more
13Get a small loan from a credit union
Many federal credit unions offer Payday Alternative Loans (PALs) of $200 to $2,000, repaid over 1 to 12 months, with an application fee of no more than $20. You need to be a member, and some credit unions ask you to be a member for a month first.
14Pick up odd jobs
Help with moving, yard work, cleaning, babysitting or pet sitting pays fast. Apps like TaskRabbit and Rover can connect you with neighbors who need a hand, and word of mouth works too.
15Cut your utility bill with CARE or FERA
If you get power or gas from PG&E, Southern California Edison, SDG&E or SoCalGas, the CARE program takes 30% to 35% off your electric bill and 20% off natural gas. FERA takes 18% off electric for households that earn a little more. A household of 1 or 2 earning up to $43,280 a year can qualify for CARE under the 2026 to 2027 guidelines. Apply with your utility; it takes a few minutes online. See our guide to help paying your electric bill.
What to avoid when you need money fast
- Anyone who promises “guaranteed approval” or a loan with no questions asked
- Any lender that asks for a fee before you get your money
- Car title loans, where you can lose your car if you cannot repay
- Overdrafting your bank account on purpose, since overdraft fees add up fast
- Giving your bank login, card number or security codes to someone who contacted you first
Frequently asked questions
What is the fastest way to get money today?▾
Selling something locally, pawning an item, cashing out gig earnings or taking a credit card cash advance can put cash in your hands within hours. A short term loan online can also send money as soon as the same day if you are approved.
How can I get $100 fast?▾
Sell an item you do not use, pick up a gig shift, ask a friend, or apply for a short term loan. Cash in Flash loans start at $100, and you see the fee before you sign.
Can I get money fast with bad credit?▾
Yes. Selling items, pawn loans, gig work and help programs do not depend on your credit. Some lenders, including Cash in Flash, look at more than your credit score, and applying does not affect your FICO® Score.
Where can I get emergency help in California?▾
Dial 2-1-1 to reach free local help with rent, utilities and food. CalFresh can help with groceries, and CARE or FERA can lower your utility bills.
Is a short term loan a good way to get money fast?▾
It can be, for a one time expense you can repay from your next paycheck. It is fast and the fee is clear up front, but it is not meant for costs that come back every month. If repaying would leave you short again, try the free options first.
Need $100 to $255 today?
Apply online in about 5 minutes. If you are approved, money can arrive as soon as today, and every fee is shown before you sign.