Emergency Loans

Fast emergency loans up to $1,500. Apply online 24/7, get approved in minutes, and receive funds by e-Transfer. Bad credit is accepted too!

Download iCash on the App Store.

23K ratings

4.8 out of 5

Customize your instant loan

Receive your money by 10:56 pm

Minimum

$100

$750

Maximum

$1,500

1

2

3

Elite

New customer

Prestige

VIP

Cost summary

Cost
$85.50
instant-loans
interac

Apply now and receive your money by e-Transfer at no extra cost.

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Download iCash on the App Store.

23K ratings

4.8 out of 5

Emergency Loans in Canada – Fast Financial Help When You Need It Most

There could be numerous reasons why someone might need emergency cash. Perhaps it’s a sudden job loss, and you have bills due. Perhaps you have a sudden leaky roof. Either way, when an unexpected expense hits, waiting usually isn't an option. 

Emergency payday loans in Canada, with options from lenders like iCash, bridge the gap when you're short on cash but need to handle something that can't wait.

We understand that financial emergencies don't follow a schedule, and you shouldn't have to either. We're a 100% online Canadian lender offering payday loans up to $1,500 with approvals in minutes and funds sent by e-Transfer, even on weekends and holidays. With over 1 million Canadians helped and a 93% approval rate, we're here when traditional banks aren't.

Quick Answer Box

What are emergency loans?

Emergency loans are designed to help Canadians cover urgent expenses like rent, medical bills, or car repairs. With iCash, you can apply online and receive funds quickly, even if you have bad credit.

Why Choose iCash for Emergency Loans

True 24/7 Availability: Apply on a Sunday or Saturday afternoon, we're always operational. Our system works around the clock because emergencies don't wait for business hours.

Instant Approval Decision: You can expect real-time approvals, not delayed manual reviews. Most applicants know within a few seconds whether they're approved. Fast answers when you need them most.

No Branch Required: Fully digital process from start to finish. Apply from your phone, tablet, or computer. There’s no need to find open locations, wait in line, or travel anywhere.

Easy-to-Use Smartphone App: Download our mobile app on either Android or iOS! You can apply directly from your smartphone, check the details of your loan and so much more!

Transparent Costs: All fees are disclosed upfront with no hidden surcharges. Borrow $100-$1,500 with clear repayment terms. Our cost is $14 per $100 borrowed.

Flexible Terms: Choose your repayment terms up to 62 days out (except Ontario and Nova Scotia - conditions apply).

Licensed & Regulated: Fully licensed across multiple provinces and a proud member of the Canadian Consumer Finance Association. We comply with all provincial lending regulations to protect you.

Secure Application: 256-bit encryption and bank-level security protect your information. Your data is safe with us, 100% of the time.

Trusted by Canadians: Rated 4.7/5 on Trustpilot with over 2,900 reviews. Real customers, real experiences.

Earn While You Borrow: Get up to 12% cashback on the cost of borrowing as an iCash member. 

When Should You Consider an Emergency Loan?

Emergency loans are exactly what they sound like: a borrowing option when you’re facing some sort of financial crisis. While there are no limitations to how you use the money if you’re approved, it’s typically not a good idea to use it for non-essential purchases like a vacation, for example. They work best when you need cash quickly and don't have other immediate options.

Common situations where emergency loans make sense:

  • Unexpected medical or dental expenses not covered by insurance

  • Car repairs preventing you from getting to work

  • Critical home repairs like a broken furnace in winter

  • Overdue rent or utilities at risk of disconnection

  • Short-term income gaps between paychecks

  • Urgent travel for family emergencies

How Emergency Loans from iCash Work

Our streamlined 3-step process gets you from application to funding faster than traditional lenders.

Step 1: Apply Online in Minutes

Fill out our simple online form with basic personal and income details. No paperwork, no documents to scan, no bank statements required. The whole application takes just minutes from any device.

Step 2: Get a Quick Decision

Our system reviews your application instantly. Most applicants receive a decision within 90 seconds. No waiting days for someone to manually review your file.

Step 3: Receive Your Funds

Once approved and you've signed your agreement electronically, money is sent by e-Transfer. Most customers receive their money within 2 minutes!

How Much Can You Borrow and How Fast?

With us, you can borrow anywhere from $100 to $1,500, depending on your income, banking history, and provincial regulations where you live.

What affects your borrowing amount:

Your monthly income determines your maximum borrowing limit. First-time borrowers typically start with smaller amounts, while returning customers with good repayment history may qualify for higher amounts up to $1,500.

Funding speed:

Most approved applicants receive funds by e-Transfer within minutes of signing their agreement. Transfers are sent 24/7, even on weekends and holidays. In rare cases where e-Transfer experiences delays, it’ll typically arrive within a few hours.

Emergency Loans vs Other Short-Term Loan Options

Emergency loans vs traditional payday lending: Emergency loans with bad credit options, like the ones offered by us, give you more flexibility than traditional options. We provide longer repayment windows (up to 62 days in some provinces), fully digital convenience, and no in-person visits required.

Emergency loans vs credit cards: Credit cards work for emergencies if you have available credit. If your card is maxed out or you don't have a card, emergency loans provide an accessible alternative.

Emergency loans vs bank loans: Bank loans take days, or sometimes even weeks, for approval. Emergency loans for the unemployed in Canada that are online offer faster access with flexible approval criteria, making them better suited for urgent situations.

Emergency Loan Options Based on Your Financial Situation

Emergency Loans if You're Unemployed

We accept various income sources, including EI, CPP, provincial disability benefits (ODSP, AISH), Child Tax Credit, self-employment income, and other government assistance.

What matters most is a consistent income of at least $800 per month for the past three months. We assess your ability to repay based on your total financial picture, not just employment status.

Emergency Loans for Bad Credit

Your score matters, but it's not the only factor. We look at your current income, banking history, and overall situation. Many Canadians with poor credit have successfully received loans from us. Remember, taking out a loan you can't repay will worsen your credit. Make sure the loan fits your monthly budget before applying.

"No Credit Check" Emergency Loans – What's the Reality?

Be cautious of lenders advertising "guaranteed approval" or "no credit check" loans. In Canada, responsible lenders must assess your ability to repay. Any lender promising guaranteed approval without verification should be approached with caution. They may be unlicensed and operating outside regulations.

Understanding Interest Rates and Repayment Terms

Before applying for an emergency loan, it's important to understand the costs and repayment structure so you can make an informed decision.

Know your borrowing costs: Emergency loans typically charge fees rather than “traditional” interest rates. Our cost is $14 per $100 borrowed. This will be clearly disclosed upfront before you sign anything. This means if you borrow $500, you'll repay $570.

Understand your repayment timeline: Know exactly when your payment is due and plan accordingly. We offer flexible repayment terms up to 62 days (except Ontario and Manitoba, conditions apply).

Calculate what you can afford: Review your upcoming income and expenses carefully. Only borrow what you can comfortably repay without creating additional financial stress. Smaller loans are easier to manage.

Emergency loans are short-term solutions: They bridge temporary gaps but aren't designed for ongoing challenges. If you repeatedly need emergency cash, consider speaking with a financial counselor about building an emergency fund or addressing underlying budget issues.

Ready to Apply for an Emergency Loan?

Don't let unexpected expenses create unnecessary stress. Apply in minutes and get the cash you need today.

Apply Online with iCash Today


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iCash is a member of the Canadian Consumer Finance Association.
iCash uses TransUnion technology to improve our lending solutions.
iCash uses Interac e-Transfer to send loans to our customers.
iCash uses Equifax technology to improve our lending solutions.
iCash is owned by women and promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Behind each review is an experience that matters

Since 2016 we have happily served over half a million customers.

Read more reviews.

How to get an emergency loan

1

Apply Online

Getting an online loan with us is fast and easy. Simply select your loan amount, repayment plan* and provide some personal details.

Sign up and apply online or on our app.
2

Instant Decision

Our online loan application will tell you if you’re approved instantly. Once approved, all you have to do is electronically sign your contract. It’s that easy!

Get a decision instantly after completing our paperless loan application.
3

Get Funds

Once you sign your digital agreement, your cash advance will be sent by e-Transfer within 2 minutes. Fast, convenient and hassle-free. Funds are sent 24/7, no matter what.

Receive your money by e-Transfer within minutes of signing your agreement.

We help our members get their finances back on track

$335 Million
saved by iCash customers since 2016
76,700+
positive reviews
$15,500,000+
given in Cashback
3.5 Million
online loans issued since 2016
700,000
downloads of the iCash App

Frequently asked questions

How can I borrow money in an emergency?

You can get an emergency loan by contacting a private lender in your province. To apply for a loan, you could go to a loan store or look for an online lender. At iCash, you can apply anytime and anywhere, receive an instant decision, and even get the money the same day if you've been approved.

How much can I borrow with an emergency loan?

You can borrow amounts typically ranging from $100 to $1,500 through payday loans.

Can I get an emergency loan with bad credit?

Yes, you can get emergency loans for bad credit as long as you turn to the right lender. Like iCash, direct lenders have flexible terms and no minimum credit score requirements so that you can qualify for a loan even if you have poor credit.

What credit score do you need for an emergency loan?

As emergency loans often focus on other factors like income and repayment ability, a specific credit score is not usually necessary. Many lenders like iCash offer loan options for those with poor or bad credit, focusing on your ability to repay the loan, rather than just credit scores. So, if you need an emergency loan, don’t let a poor credit score hold you back. Apply for a loan with iCash today!

How fast will I receive the money?

Most approved applicants receive their funds by e-Transfer within 2 minutes of signing their loan agreement. We send transfers 24/7, 365 days a year, so you can get cash even on weekends and holidays.

Are emergency loans safe and legal in Canada?

Yes, when you work with licensed lenders. We’re fully licensed in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario, and Prince Edward Island. We're also a member of the Canadian Consumer Finance Association and comply with all provincial lending regulations.

Do I need collateral?

No. Loans from iCash are unsecured, meaning you don't need to put up your car, home, or other assets as collateral. Your loan is based on your income and ability to repay.

What if I can't repay on time?

Contact our customer support team immediately if you're having difficulty making your payment. We're available 24/7 and work with customers to find solutions. Ignoring the problem only makes it worse, but reaching out early gives us options to help.

Have more questions? Check out our full FAQ.

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