by Karen Umrysh

Created on: May 05, 2008   Last Updated: May 20, 2008

It's happening to you! You've lost your job, there's been a death in the family, or you're simply in debt over your head. You've no emergency fund and you're loath to request a loan from friends or family for fear of digging yourself into a deeper hole. You're not alone! Most people will go through a similar scenario at least once in their lifetime. You simply need to know how to raise cash quickly, easily, and legally. Here's how:

Take a tour of your home, inside and out - Is there anything of value that you could sell quickly? Walk through each room with a new perspective and an open mind. You may be so used to your surroundings that the answer is right in front of you!

Hold a garage sale - You'll not only rid your house of unwanted clutter, you'll have cash in hand by the end of the day. Some people make it their weekend hobby to root through other people's 'trash' for treasures. Use as many communication vehicles as you can (signs, free classifieds, word of mouth etc.) to attract the largest crowd.

Auction off items on eBay - Registration is free, it's simple to use, and you can sell just about anything. If you don't have much of your own stuff to sell, shop other garage sales. People often get rid of items for next to nothing that you could auction off for much, much more! All the better, if you have an eye for unique or collectible items.

Break the piggy bank - It's time to unload the jars, bins, or whatever else you've used to house your spare change. Find out if there is a Coinstar machine located in your area and eliminate hours of rolling!

Pick up temporary work - Seek out opportunities in your neighborhood to assist in odd jobs, such as helping someone move, painting a house, doing yard work etc. You'll make money quickly and help out your community at the same time. Again, use as many communication vehicles as you can to advertise your services. If you are seeking more stable work, telemarketing companies are always hiring and most let you begin immediately.

Turn a hobby into cash - Do you possess a specific skill or have a favorite pastime that could earn you money? Do you enjoy making special arts and crafts? Are you a talented painter or do you have a wonderful singing voice? Your talent may be in high demand in your area and you get to earn money doing something you're passionate about.

Use the Internet to earn money - The Internet is a great place to seek out work, but beware of 'get rich quick' scams. Use your skills and talents to help you earn money online. If you have a flair for writing, for example, consider writing web articles and content. You may even get to feature your own creative ways to raise money!

Finally, pat yourself on the back - You're getting yourself out of a rut and you don't have to rob a bank to do it! You may even be fulfilling a dream of building your own home-based business. Consider continuing some or all of the above activities to build yourself an emergency fund. You'll not only sleep better, you'll be setting a wonderful example for friends and family . . . and that, in itself, is perhaps the greatest reward.

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