In our last episode, we talked about payday and title loans—and how quickly they can damage your financial health.

Today, we’re taking the next step. We’re sharing five alternatives to those high-cost loans that can help you get through a tough spot without digging a deeper hole.

Some of these options come with their own challenges—whether that’s timing, patience, or having conversations that might feel uncomfortable or even embarrassing. But we believe your financial health is worth it.

Because the freedom that comes from climbing out of a financial hole lasts a lot longer than any temporary discomfort.