Life doesn't always follow a linear path, and one day you're riding high and the next it feels like everything has fallen apart. And your finances are no different, and major life events can upend your money situation faster than the blink of an eye - a new job, a relocation, a medical bill, a divorce, etc, all big changes that for some can come in quick succession or be big enough to impact finances in a huge way. In fact, Newsweek reported that nearly 1 in 5 Americans had to take on extra debt to cover unexpected maintenance or other hidden costs in 2025.
So what are your options if you need cash quickly to help you cope with major life events or changes?
Reduce Immediate Burn
One of the greatest reliefs on your income is cutting the things that drain you the most, but you still need to pay for. It's always a good idea to negotiate or change suppliers for the following.
Insurance policies
Internet or cell phone plans
Subscriptions you forgot you were paying for
Energy suppliers or utility providers
It's not glamorous, and it won't free up hundreds of dollars instantly, but it will help in the long term.
Sell High Value Items
When you need money fast, and a lot of money fast, selling your wardrobe on Vinted isn't going to get you what you need. While this will help you, you need to look for any high-value items you no longer need to sell first.
Power tools
Second TV s or monitors
High-end electronics
Exercise equipment
Musical instruments
Unused furniture
This doesn't mean sell everything if you have them, but if you don't use them frequently or no longer need them, sell them first.
Take On a Side Hustle
In the gig economy, it's not unusual for people to have more than one income stream, and the thing with side hostels is you can pick them up and drop them as you wish.
Things like
Taking on extra shifts with your current employer
Taking on driving jobs
Weekend hospitality work in bar clubs or even species
Renting out driveway room or land
Taking on virtual work, such as freelance writing, admin, or customer service roles
There will always be part-time roles available either via an employer or on a freelance basis, you can dip into to help you build extra funds and get the financial buffer you need.
Sell Up to Cash Buyers
If you're thinking of selling for relocation purposes, for a divorce, or simply because you can't afford the upkeep anymore, selling your home for cash to trusted home buyers is often the easiest route. If you don't want to sell via traditional quote, and if you need a sale sooner rather than later, and don't have months to wait or money to push into real estate agents' staging or repairs, then selling fast for a fair price is a great alternative. You simply get a quote, decide if you want to accept, and if you do accept the offer, life will move pretty quickly, allowing you to make your next move with speed