Security deposits are one of the most unexpected financial drains encountered when moving to a new home or apartment. According to deposit management site Roost, landlords receive more than $45 million every year in security deposits from renters. This is exactly why many need help with move-in deposit costs.

When you’re already paying for transportation, moving materials, professional movers, and needed items for your new place, a security deposit can come with a big sticker shock. Often, they can be as much as your first month’s rent — or even your first and last month’s rent.

That can leave you thousands of dollars in the hole as soon as you move into your new place. It’s no wonder then that many need help with move-in deposit expenses. If you are dealing with that trouble, here are some of the best ways to get the moving money you need.

7 Ways To Get Help With Your Move-In Deposit

1. Sell Your Stuff

There are two big benefits to selling your things if you need help with move-in deposit expenses. First, the less stuff you have to pack, the less expensive and stressful your move will be. The other big benefit is you can make a lot of extra cash.

By simply selling your unwanted, unneeded, or unused items, you can find the extra money you need to make the move better. Go through your belongings and pick out the clothes, electronics, books, kitchen items, and other high-ticket items that can collectively help you cover a security deposit.

2. Apply For Grants

There are numerous grants for low-income individuals and families who need help with move-in deposit costs. Government grants include the Housing and Urban Development’s Homeless Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Grant and the Federal Relocation Assistance Program offered by the Federal Emergency Management Administration

You can also get the Community Development Block Grants offered by Community Action Agencies. All of these grants come with different requirements and application procedures, but each can go a long way if you need help with move-in deposit coverage.

3. Talk With Your Employer

You may not know it, but the company you work for may have a program set up to assist employees with moving needs, even if you’re relocating within your same city. In addition, if you’re moving for a new job, talk to your boss or human resources.

They might be able to include a moving expense reimbursement into your overall hiring package during salary negotiations. In a time when more people are quitting their jobs, employers may want to do whatever they can to keep you working for them, you just have to be upfront with them.

4. Get A Side Gig

Even when you’re busy with your move, getting a part-time side hustle can make a significant dent in expenses when you need help with the move-in deposit. Find something that you can easily fit into your schedule, such as home or pet sitting, freelance writing, taking online surveys, or selling handmade goods on sites like Etsy. All can help with even the heftiest move-in deposit.

5. Get Charitable Assistance

Organizations such as the Salvation Army, the YWCA, and Catholic Charities offer many different types of financial resources for moving, especially for those who are low income or experiencing homelessness. Many simply also require that you show them proof of a security deposit or deposit on such moving needs as rental vans or movers.

6. Find COVID-19 Assistance For Renters

Helpful programs for COVID-19 rental assistance are run by individual states, and the money can be used to help with your first rental payment and security deposit. The Emergency Rental Assistance Program, funded by the government, distributes money to tenants (and landlords) who are struggling financially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

These COVID-19 assistance programs are especially great for those people who are seeing reduced work hours or relying on unemployment benefits to get by on their day-to-day expenses. And in many states, the program is set to run through 2026 or when funds are depleted.

7. Get An Auto Title Loan

Financial emergencies can happen to anyone, and they become even more pressing when they stem from move-in deposits. One option you have is an auto title loan. Using your vehicle’s title as collateral, a fast car title loan provides a fast and easy approach to covering all types of moving expenses – and you can keep your car for the duration of the loan.

In as little as 30 minutes, you may qualify for an auto title loan from Fast Auto Loans, Inc. of up to $15.000. We base how much you can get on your vehicle’s condition, so we would need to do a quick vehicle inspection. You also have to make sure your vehicle title is lien-free and in your name. You must also be at least 18 years old to qualify.

All you need to do is start the process online by filling out the auto title loan inquiry form on our website. A title loan representative will then call you to go over the required items and set up a time to inspect your vehicle at the nearest auto title loan location. You can also have us come to you if you’d prefer.

If we decide you qualify for approval, we will go over the loan terms, answer any remaining questions you have, and help you finish the paperwork. After agreeing to the terms and finishing the paperwork, you will get your cash either the same day or the very next business day.

Handle Your Move-In Deposit With Ease

Moving can be exciting, but it can also be expensive. Any of our options can help get you the money you need for help with move-in deposit costs. And If you decide an auto title loan can help, just fill out the online form on our website, give us a call, or visit one of our many locations today. We’ll get you on your way to your new place in no time.

Note: The content provided in this article is only for informational purposes, and you should contact your financial advisor about your specific financial situation.