Need Help With A Move In Deposit? Here Are Ways To Get Moving Money
Moving into a new place can be exciting, but move-in costs can add up quickly.
A landlord may ask for a security deposit, first month’s rent, last month’s rent, application fees, pet fees, utility deposits, moving supplies, or other upfront costs.
If you need help with a move-in deposit, start by reviewing no-loan and lower-cost options first.
This guide covers seven ways to prepare for move-in costs, including rental assistance, landlord negotiation, side income, selling items, and how auto title loans may be reviewed if other options are not enough.
Quick Answer: What Should You Try First?
Before borrowing for a move-in deposit, try to reduce the upfront cost.
Start with:
- Asking the landlord about a payment plan
- Looking for rental assistance programs
- Selling items before the move
- Asking about employer relocation help
- Taking on short-term side work
- Reviewing charitable or community assistance
- Comparing borrowing options only after other options are not enough
7 Ways To Get Help With Your Move-In Deposit
1. Sell Unwanted Items for Extra Cash
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 Housing 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. Ask Your Employer for Relocation Assistance
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. Take on a Short-Term 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. Look for Charitable Assistance Programs
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 Rental Assistance Programs
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. Use Title Loans to Cover Your Move-In Deposit
When you're short on time and need fast money, a title loan could be your best option.
What Is a Title Loan?
A title loan is a secured loan that uses your car title as collateral. With Fast Auto Loans, Inc., you can get up to $15,000 with no credit check required, perfect if you're dealing with bad credit or no credit history at all.
How a Title Loan Helps With Move-In Costs
- Fast approval—often within 30 minutes
- Keep your car while repaying the loan
- Flexible payment options
- No store visit required—apply online
How To Apply for a Title Loan to Help With a Move-In Deposit
Getting a title loan to cover your move-in deposit is easy and hassle-free.
Requirements:
- A lien-free vehicle title (in your name)
- A valid driver’s license or state-issued ID
- Your vehicle for a quick inspection
Simple Process:
- Fill out an online inquiry form – It only takes minutes!
- Get a call from a loan representative to discuss your options
- Bring your car & title for a quick inspection
- Get cash the same day or next business day
Get Help With Your Move-In Deposit
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 the many Fast Auto Loans, Inc. locations today. We’ll get you on your way to your new place in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I get help with a move-in deposit?
You may be able to get help through landlord payment plans, rental assistance programs, Community Action Agencies, local nonprofits, employer relocation help, short-term side work, selling items, or borrowing options.
Can rental assistance help with a security deposit?
Some rental assistance programs may help with security deposits or move-in costs, depending on your location, eligibility, and available funding.
Should I borrow for a move-in deposit?
Borrowing should not automatically be the first option. Review payment plans, assistance programs, savings, side income, and lower-cost options first.
Can an auto title loan help with a move-in deposit?
An auto title loan may be one option to review if the move-in cost is necessary, other options are not enough, and you own a qualifying vehicle outright with a lien-free title in your name.
What do I need for an Arizona title loan?
You generally need a driver’s license or state-issued ID, a lien-free vehicle title in your name, and your vehicle for inspection.
Note: The content provided in this article is only for informational purposes, and you should contact your financial advisor about your specific financial situation.
