When you are struggling with debt, it is a stressful time and there are options other than a loan shark.
Lending money from a loan shark increases your debt as they charge horrendous interest.
There is also the real threat of intimidation and violence.
It is not just Christmas that can get us in a mess.
Weddings, unexpected house repairs, illness can all add to the toil on finances.
Christmas often has a big impact and raises the ugly fact that that too much was spent on loans, credit cards and the New Year does not seem that good once the credit bills hit the doormat.
I am not going to go into why people get into debt but just try to help reduce some of the stress that debt can bring.
So what can YOU do to make more money? SELL UNWANTED ITEMS Have a good look around your house for unwanted clothes, shoes, CD's, perfume, make up, tennis racquets, exercise equipment, pans, in fact anything! People even buy old rope on eBay.
You will need to register to sell and buy on eBay and set up a PayPal account.
Note charges apply when you sell from both eBay and PayPal.
List your item(s) for the smallest amount that is acceptable to you then calculate the cost of fees that will be charged.
Charges are made for listing, final value fee's and enhanced listings.
Lower starting prices have a cheaper listing fee.
You charge upfront for postage and packing to your buyer.
Weigh your items to make sure you cover your postage.
PayPal - PayPal charge you to receive money from a person but not when you pay someone.
You will find plenty of help in the community/help pages on eBay to get you started.
There are other sites to consider such as eBid (eBid is free to list items).
Other useful sites are Gumtree and Amazon.
Named designer and high street labels normally go for a higher price than unnamed labels.
Do not forget car boot sales and free trade press adverts.
OFFER YOUR SKILLS Identify what your can do well, so you can offer your services on an ad-hoc basis.
You could try babysitting, cleaning, ironing, dog walking, gardening or knitting if these are within your ability.
(You might want to check out whether you need insurance though for the services you may offer).
If you are good at typing, writing, grammar, drawing, painting, database, sewing or anything really.
You can also check out sites like 'PeoplePerHour' where you can list or offer services.
It is my first choice when I need something done either I cannot do or time is short.
Seek some extra work through a temporary agency or supermarket/telephone work.
Ask for extra shifts at your existing workplace.
Please note if you are claiming though you might want to check out how more income may affect your benefits.
SHORT LOANS The best way to get a short loan is from your bank in the form of an overdraft.
It is often the cheapest way to borrow money.
Avoid credit cards if you can or switch large amounts to a 0% deal to help you manage your money better over the next few months.
Do not approach loan sharks.
When borrowing money do consider how you will repay back the monies.
WHAT ELSE CAN YOU DO? If your money situation is dire and you cannot see a way out, then seriously consider downsizing your house to release equity (if you own your home).
Note though it does cost to move and this would be a last resort.
Trade your glam car to a run-around that uses less petrol, tax and insurance.
Cancel gym subscriptions or any other direct debits that are not essentials.
By the way, 'insurance' in my opinion is essential whether it is life insurance, holiday insurance, wedding insurance or car insurance.
But it is up to you what you do with your money and the risk you wish or need to make.
Try not to buy things you cannot afford.
Cut down or get rid of subscriptions to TV packages etc.
Buy 'basic brands' when shopping.
Check whether you might be eligible for any extra help from the Government.
Reduce household bills by turning off unused items in the house and not leaving them on standby.
If you have an extra room, then consider 'renting a room'.
This Government initiative allows you to make up to £4,250 tax-free per year (amount subject to change).
Rent out your garage or driveway if you have one.
SEEK HELP - TALK There are very helpful organisations that can help with managing your money, consolidating debt and helping you set up acceptable repayment schemes with the companies, you owe money.
Citizens Advice Bureau National Debt Line Step Change (charity)