Emergency Loans: Options for Unexpected Expenses, from $200 to $5,000
An emergency loan is a personal loan used to cover an urgent cost, like a car repair or medical bill. See how they work, what to compare and when another option might cost less.
Tilt App is a loan-matching service, not a lender. Submitting a request doesn't guarantee an offer.
What is an emergency loan?
There's no special product called an "emergency loan." The term usually means a personal loan you use for an urgent expense, repaid in installments over time.
Because you're borrowing under pressure, it's worth taking a moment to compare the APR and total cost, and to check whether a payment plan or assistance could cover the bill instead.
Emergency loans at a glance
Varies by lender- What it is
- A personal loan used for an urgent cost
- How it's repaid
- Usually fixed installments
- Amounts through Tilt App
- Any amount from $200 to $5,000
- What to compare
- APR, fees, term length and the total you'll repay
- APR range
- 5.99%–35.99%
Rates, fees and terms are set by each lender and depend on your credit profile, term and state.
Emergency loans by expense
Each guide explains common options for that kind of bill, what to compare and other ways you might pay.
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Car repair
Your car needs fixing to get you to work or school.
Car repair loan options -
Medical or dental bills
A bill from a doctor, hospital or dentist. Ask about a payment plan too.
Medical bill loan options -
Home or appliance repair
A broken furnace, a leaking roof or a refrigerator that stopped working.
Home repair loan options -
Veterinary bills
An emergency visit or unexpected treatment for your pet.
Vet bill loan options -
Other emergency expenses
Something else that can't wait, from urgent travel to an unexpected bill.
Choose an amount -
Not sure how much?
See how repayment and costs change from $200 to $5,000 before you choose an amount.
Compare loan amounts
How to handle an emergency expense
Four steps that can keep the cost down.
Find out the exact cost
Get the bill or a written estimate before you decide how much to borrow.
Ask about a payment plan
Many providers will split a bill, which may cost less than borrowing.
Borrow only what you need
Request the amount the urgent part costs, not a round number.
Compare before you accept
Check the APR, fees and total repaid on every offer.
Not sure a loan is right?
Borrowing isn't the only way to cover an unexpected bill. These options can cost less, depending on your situation.
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Payment plans
Many hospitals, repair shops and utilities will split a bill into smaller payments.
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Cash advance apps
Small advances repaid on payday. Compare subscription and transfer fees.
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Assistance programs
Utility, medical and rent assistance can reduce how much you need to borrow.
How much do you need?
Pick the amount closest to your bill, or enter any amount from $200 to $5,000.
Rates and terms vary by lender: 5.99%–35.99%
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$500 loan options
For a smaller expense.
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$1,000 loan options
For a mid-size expense.
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$2,000 loan options
For a larger expense.
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$3,000 loan options
For a major expense.
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$5,000 loan options
For several costs or a major expense.
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Compare all loan amounts
Or enter any amount from $200 to $5,000.
Before you borrow for an emergency
Keep these in mind, even when you need money quickly.
- Borrow only what you need for this expense.
- Check the APR and the total amount you'll repay.
- Ask whoever sent the bill about a payment plan.
- Make sure the repayment dates fit your budget.
Emergency loan questions
More answers in the help center.
What is an emergency loan?
It usually means a personal loan used for an urgent, unexpected expense, such as a car repair or medical bill. It's typically repaid in installments over time.
How quickly can I get an emergency loan?
As soon as the next business day after you’re approved, though exact timing depends on your lender and your bank Timing depends on the lender and your bank, and isn't guaranteed.
Are emergency loans the same as payday loans?
Not necessarily. A payday loan is usually due in full on your next payday, often at a high cost. An installment loan is repaid in several scheduled payments. Check how an offer is repaid before you accept it.
Can I get an emergency loan with bad credit?
You can submit a request whatever your credit history. Lenders set their own criteria, and no one can guarantee approval. See bad credit loan options.
What can I use an emergency loan for?
Most personal loans can be used for a wide range of urgent costs, including car repairs, medical bills, home repairs and vet bills. Check the lender's terms for any restrictions.