When you have a minor emergency, even a quick 100 loan can make a big difference. The good news is that you often have several choices, even with low credit. This guide explains common ways to borrow $100 quickly, as well as some non-loan options to get cash fast.
Key Takeaways
- Explore PALs from credit unions for a lower-cost, short-term 100 loan.
- Use cash-advance apps to get $100 instantly against your next paycheck with minimal fees and no credit check.
- Pawn something valuable as collateral to secure 100 dollars, but expect monthly fees (around 10%) to reclaim your item.
- Try debt-free fixes like selling unused stuff or picking up a same-day side gig to raise $100 without borrowing.
Four Ways to Get a 100 Dollar Loan
When you are strapped for cash and need $100 pronto, these loan options might be the way to go.
1. Short-Term Loans
Payday loans are short-term cash advances you repay on your next payday, and you could get one for $100 relatively fast. Many storefront or online lenders offer loans of $100 to $500 with minimal requirements, often with without a credit check. However, these loans come with very high fees.
For every $100 borrowed, you’ll typically pay about $10–$30 in fees. That means borrowing $100 might cost $115 or more in two weeks (APR well over 100%).
- Pros: Fast approval (often in minutes) and minimal qualifications. Available nearly everywhere.
- Cons: A typical fee is $15 per $100, so the cost could be higher than for an average loan. Short-term, usually 2–4 weeks, can lead to rollovers and debt cycles. If you repay late or extend, the fees grow quickly.
2. Credit Union Emergency Loans (Payday Alternative Loans)
A federal credit union may offer a small emergency loan or a Payday Alternative Loan (PAL). These loans are meant to replace costly payday loans. For example, many PALs are priced between $200 and $1,000 with terms of 1–6 months.
The fees are low (often just a one-time fee up to $20), and APRs are usually under 30%. If you’ve been a credit union member for at least a month, ask if you qualify.
- Pros: Often much more affordable fixed low rate and small one-time fee. Quick funding through a local branch. Repayment terms are short and fixed.
- Cons: You must already be a member of the credit union (or join and wait a month). Amounts usually start at $200, so you may need more than $100. Can only take a few such loans per year.
3. Cash Advance Apps (Paycheck Advance)
Mobile lending apps like Earnin, Dave, or Brigit let you borrow a small amount against the paycheck you’ve already earned. You link the app to your bank or payroll account, request up to around $100, and the cash is deposited instantly. You then repay it automatically on your next payday.
These apps don’t require a credit check and usually charge no mandatory interest; some have an optional tip or a small, fixed fee. In effect, they function like very short payday loans with automatic repayment.
- Pros: Instant access to cash with no credit check. Often, no required interest is just an optional tip or small fee. Can repeat each pay cycle when you need a bit extra.
- Cons: You must have a regular income and connect the app to your job or bank account. They only advance what you’ve already earned.
4. Pawn Shop Loans
At a pawn shop, you can get cash for $100 by pawning (leaving) an item of value like jewelry or electronics as collateral. The pawnbroker holds your item and gives you cash based on its value. You repay the loan plus interest, and get the item back.
Pawn loans often have lower interest rates than payday loans, with APRs typically around 100–200% (for a $100 loan due in 30 days). That’s still high, but note that pawnshop APRs are generally lower than payday loan APRs.
- Pros: No credit check required, just collateral. Quick funding, usually within minutes. APR is typically lower than a payday loan.
- Cons: You must have something valuable to pawn and risk losing it if you can’t repay. Interest and fees still add up, around 10% of the loan amount per month. The loan is short-term, often 30 days, so it must be repaid quickly to get your item back.
4 Non-Loan Related Ideas to Get $100
If borrowing isn’t possible or just doesn’t feel right, here are a few debt-free alternatives.
1. Sell Unwanted Items
Instead of borrowing, you might raise $100 by selling things you no longer need. Look around your home for electronics, clothes, books, or tools you can sell online or at a garage sale. Platforms like Facebook Marketplace, eBay, or even consignment shops can turn clutter into cash. Not only do you get money, but you also clear out unwanted stuff.
- Pros: You get cash without taking on any debt. Declutters your space and may recover more than $100 if you have valuable items—no credit check or approval needed.
- Cons: It can take time to list items and find a buyer. You might not sell items quickly or at the price you hope. You need items of enough value; not everyone can find $100 worth of unused goods immediately.
2. Side Hustles and Odd Jobs
Earning $100 by working a bit can be faster and cheaper than a loan. Think about quick gigs you can do today or this week: dog walking, babysitting, lawn care, delivering food, or freelance tasks online.
Even driving for a rideshare or delivery service for a few hours can net around $100. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau suggests using your skills or time to earn extra money, such as babysitting or yard work, rather than turning to expensive credit.
- Pros: Earn money on your schedule, often with flexible hours. Builds your income without creating debt. You can keep working if it helps future emergencies, too.
- Cons: Will take some time and effort. Some gigs require equipment (like a car or smartphone) or specific qualifications. Payments may not be immediate; some work pays after a week or more.
3. Earned Wage Advances
If you have a job with a steady paycheck, consider getting an earned wage advance. Some employers or payroll services let you access part of your paycheck before payday. Apps that connect to your employer’s payroll can transfer a portion of earned wages to your account on demand.
- Pros: You’re essentially borrowing from yourself (what you’ve already earned), so there is no credit check. Can cover emergencies without needing traditional credit.
- Cons: Only a portion of your pay can be advanced, so you won’t get much more than $100 if you haven’t earned it yet. Not all employers offer this; you may need a special app or payroll service that supports it.
4. Ask Family or Friends for Help
Reaching out to someone you trust can be the fastest way to cover a $100 emergency. Approach the conversation thoughtfully. Start by choosing a calm moment, and explain your situation honestly. Be clear about when you expect to repay, and thank them for considering before diving into the details.
- Pros: No fees or interest; repayment terms can be flexible, or it might even be a gift.
- Cons: Asking can feel uncomfortable, and failing to repay on time may strain the relationship.
FAQ about 100 Dollar Loans
Got loan-related questions? Don’t miss our FAQ section.
How Can I Borrow $100 Fast?
You have several quick options. If you belong to a credit union, ask about an emergency loan or a payday alternative loan. These can sometimes be approved in one day. Apps and services, like Earnin or Dave, can advance a portion of your paycheck for a small fee.
Also consider a short-term loan, such as a payday loan or pawn loan, but be aware of the high fees. And remember alternatives: selling something or doing a same-day gig can often raise $100 faster than arranging a loan.
How Can I Get a $100 Loan With Bad Credit?
Consider applying for a small-dollar microloan through a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI). CDFIs’ Small Dollar Loan Program may approve $100–$500 loans by weighing your income and banking history rather than relying solely on your credit score.
Can I Get a 100 Dollar Loan With No Credit?
Even without a credit history, you still have options for emergency funds. Cash advance apps can move up to $100 of your earned pay to you. They’re effectively no-credit loans.
Credit unions might offer small loans or emergency credit even if you have no score, once you’re a member. A pawn loan or selling something of value also requires no credit check. You could also ask your employer for a payroll advance or check if local charities offer emergency help.
Sources
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. “Should I get a payday loan if I need money now?” CFPB. Accessed May 9, 2025.
- National Credit Union Administration. “Payday Alternative Loans.” NCUA. Accessed May 10, 2025.
- NerdWallet. “Should You Take a Pawnshop Loan?” NerdWallet. Accessed May 10, 2025.
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. “Your Money, Your Goals Financial Empowerment Toolkit” CFPB. Accessed May 10, 2025.