Personal loans can certainly help us get out of some sticky situations, especially the ones that pop up out of nowhere and leave us feeling completely helpless. When it's an emergency and we need money fast, the last thing we want to do is fill out bunches of forms, produce documents of identification and wait two weeks to hear whether the loan went through. Many emergencies are time-sensitive, such as fixing a car to be able to get to work, or attending a funeral that's only three days away. Luckily, there are payday advance loans.

These loans are smaller than loans for things like consolidating debt, buying a house or sending a child to college. Payday advance loans are usually no more than about $500, and you are generally expected to pay them back by your next payday. If that isn't possible, you can apply for an extension, but will have to pay fees on the extension just as you have to pay fees on the original loan.

The quickest way to get approved for a fast cash loan and to see it in your account is to apply online. You don't even have to get out of your chair. As you start perusing the Internet, you will quickly realize how many of these companies are out there. How do you whittle them down? If any company asks you to pay upfront fees, go somewhere else.

Lenders

You will find that some companies will have you first fill out a very short form in order for you to receive a free estimate of the money you will be able to get and the fees you will have to pay. You'll have to input all the basic information, such as your name and address. You will also likely be asked for such information as an estimate on your current debt (some companies will ask you to list a credit card you have and how much money you owe on it, for example).