Is there any help for me in Clark County, Washington?

(Request received from Kathy in Vancouver, Washington) I lost my job and got behind on my rent. I now have a job but have not gotten paid.  Is there any help for me in Clark county Washington?  I owe 2500.00.

Dear Kathy,

You owe a specific amount that likely represents many months to repay. A couple hundred bucks a month would still take at least a year for most rental loans. If you believe that this is affordable, then a interim-term loan is probably a reasonable option for you.

Credit Unions

If you have a good relationship with your bank, they will likely entertain an unsecured loan for that amount. Expect them to require direct deposit and an automatic monthly debit as conditions for the loan. You may also consider one of the nonprofit lenders in Clark County that generally offer better rates.

  • Columbia Credit Union has an open membership policy to Washington State residents. Variable rates are currently just 10% APR on the personal line of credit, which is cheaper than using a credit card. Personal loan rates can be a bit higher depending on your credit rating. You can call their Vancouver call center at 360-891-4000.
  • iQ Credit Union also allows Washington residents to become members. Personal loans were roughly 10-18%, but the Personal Access Line of Credit (PAL) was just 12% which is also a decent rate. Call 360-695-3441 to find out more.
  • Peoples Community Federal Credit Union likewise has an open membership policy that welcomes Washington residents. Their personal loan is created specifically for paying living costs and rent when a member (and new member) needs temporary assistance. Call 360-695-5121 for the Vancouver office.
  • TwinStar Credit Union admits Washington residents as members. A security interest may be required for a loan of $2,500, so it would help if you own your vehicle outright if you need to pledge it as collateral for a loan. You may contact them at 800-258-3115.

There are several other possible matches that might be able to accommodate your request. Most credit unions will accept loan applications from new members who meet the creditworthiness requirements and income limits of the loan products. Don’t fear your late rent yet, since it will only post to your credit report if you are evicted and a balance is left unpaid. This would typically be referred to a collection agency which would report the delinquency and outstanding balance.

Peer lending has been used by some clients who just need help facilitating a private loan. Rates can be somewhat higher though.

Grant Aid

I will say that many of the grant-based aid programs are reserved for people that are in your situation, but that have a low income level. If you earn above the area median income for Clark County, then you probably will have difficulty qualifying for this type of aid. Still it is worth checking into, since grants are always preferred to loans.

The United Way of the Columbia-Willamette may be based in Portland but it serves Clark County residents also. For a referral to a United Way partner, simply dial 211 to be connected to a representative.