Many of us at one time or another have had credit problems. And if you're still in that boat, you certainly aren't alone by any means. Oftentimes credit trouble can put you behind the eight ball with regard to every area of your finances. Having to pay numerous bills can put a serious dent in your monthly cash flow.

Happily, there is help available in the form of cash advance loans. You know, those short-term loans that you can get with no credit check. Also called "payday loans," they're very high-interest, very short-term, and very temporary solutions to your minor funding needs. Note very carefully the word 'temporary.' These loans are not designed to be nor should they be utilized as long-term solutions. When used as intended, they're a good source to 'tide you
over' when you fall short of cash and the electric bill is overdue, for example. When kept short and sweet, the high fees remain much more manageable.

Bad-credit credit cards can also be of great assistance, despite their higher-than-market rates. If your credit is poor (or non-existent), these may be the only cards that you can get – at least for a while. If that's the case, go ahead and get one. Just be sure to use it wisely – in other words, use it to help build (or rebuild) your credit, not to go on a shopping spree. Make minor monthly purchases and pay off the entire balance when the bill arrives. This will establish a solid payment record and boost your credit score greatly. After a while, you'll be able to qualify for cards with much better interest rates.

If you'd like additional help in building or repairing your credit, you can find solid information and tips on the Federal Trade Commission's website and at Bankrate.com.