Need Money but Have Nothing? These 7 Legal Options Might Surprise You

Did you know you don’t need money to get access to money? That’s right—many people with no savings, no jobs, and even poor credit have found legitimate ways to fund their dreams. Whether it’s launching a business, going back to school, escaping the 9-to-5 grind, traveling the world, or even just affording the things they want—there are real methods to do all that starting from zero.

In this blog, we’ll explore several ways to get access to money when you feel like you have none. And if you're a club member, don’t forget to click the link at the end to watch the extended video that covers up to 13 powerful funding strategies.

Let’s dive in!

1. Venture Capital (VC): Turning Big Ideas into Big Money

This is ideal for ambitious entrepreneurs with high-growth business ideas.

What is it? VCs don’t lend—they invest in your business in exchange for equity or revenue share. They're betting on your success.

Steps to Access Venture Capital:

• Create a strong pitch deck (problem, solution, market, revenue model)

• Join platforms like AngelList or Gust

• Attend pitch competitions or reach out to early-stage investors

Example: Airbnb started in 2008 with no money—just an idea. After rejections, they received $20,000 from Y Combinator and $600,000 from Sequoia Capital. Today? They’ve raised over $6 billion and went public with a $100 billion valuation.

Pros:

• No repayment required

• Access to mentorship and resources

• Fast-paced scaling

Cons:

• You give up ownership (equity)

• Highly competitive

2. HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit)

This is great for homeowners with equity in their property.

How it works: A HELOC allows you to borrow against your home’s value—like a credit card. You only pay interest on what you use.

Example:

• Home value = $200,000

• Mortgage owed = $120,000

• Equity = $80,000

• 85% of $80,000 = $68,000 available via HELOC

Pros:

• Low interest rates

• Reusable credit line

• Flexible cash use

Cons:

• You risk losing your home if you default

• Only homeowners qualify

Related video

3. Co-Signer Loans: Borrow with a Boost

Best for those with no or poor credit.

How it works: Someone with good credit co-signs your loan. This boosts your chances of approval and lowers your interest rate.

Example: Mike’s sister co-signs a $15,000 loan. Mike repays on time, builds credit, and keeps the peace in the family.

Pros:

• Higher approval chances

• Better loan terms

Cons:

• Risk to the co-signer

• Potential relationship damage if you default

4. Collateral-Based Loans: Use What You Own

Ideal for individuals with assets but no cash.

What you can use:

• Vehicles

• Land

• Gold

• Expensive tools or electronics

Pros:

• Easier approval with low credit

• Higher loan amounts

Cons:

• Risk of losing your asset

• Short repayment timeline

5. Credit Cards: Strategic Short-Term Funding

Good for urgent needs when you have a repayment plan in place.

Strategies:

• Use cards with 0% APR intro periods

• Use cash advances cautiously

Example: With a $5,000 limit at 0% APR for 15 months, you’d pay ~$335/month with no interest.

Pros:

• Fast access to funds

• Interest-free periods

Cons:

• High interest after intro period

• Potential credit damage if misused

6. Peer-to-Peer Lending (P2P): Bypass the Bank

Perfect for those with fair credit.

How it works: Platforms like Prosper or LendingClub connect you directly with individual lenders.

Pros:

• Easier approval than banks

• Transparent terms

Cons:

• Rates may be higher than banks

• Credit checks & service fees may still apply

7. Crowdfunding: Let the Internet Fund Your Dreams

Amazing for creative projects, emergencies, or business/startup needs.

Platforms to try:

• Kickstarter

• GoFundMe

• Indiegogo

Tips for success:

• Tell a compelling story

• Use photos and videos

• Share with friends, family, and social media

Pros:

• No repayment required

• Builds community support

Cons:

• Requires marketing effort

• Not guaranteed

• Very competitive

Final Thoughts: Choose Wisely

Not all money is good money. Each funding option has its risks, responsibilities, and ideal use cases. Make sure you:

• Read all the fine print

• Avoid scams

• Choose based on your repayment ability and risk tolerance

And remember—while money helps, mindset is what makes it multiply.

Related video