Everybody needs some extra cash at some point in their life, some of us, more than others.  Sometimes as little as a couple hundred or a couple thousand dollars can prevent terrible consequences from occuring in our lives.  The problem is, that most sources of funds dry up instantly when you get yourself in a financial bind.  It is absolutely true what they always say about a bank only wanting to loan you money when you don't really need it!  Payday loans can help you get out of a tight spot once in a while, but the only way to have financial security in your life is to have personal savings equal to at least two full months of your living expenses.  Even if you just cut out buying soft drinks at restaurants and drink water instead, saving that $2 will add up if you put it into a savings account and don't touch it.  Just make sure that you save your emergency funds for an actual emergency and replenish them as soon as possible when you do have to dip into them.