When you watch your bills pile up month after month, it can be tempting to take advantage of short-term loans or other quick-fix financial options. But some of these tactics will leave you deeper in debt than when you began. To give yourself a fighting chance, avoid these four dubious debt solutions; they’re just not worth the cost.

Fee Harvesting Credit Cards

These subprime credit cards are designed for people with poor credit ratings. They’re often the last resort for potential card holders who need credit, but can’t qualify for traditional credit cards. True, they can help you build your credit history, but at what cost?

Imagine applying for and receiving a $500 credit line. That’s not too bad until you factor in the $250 account setup fee, $90 annual membership fee, and $40 monthly usage fee. Sadly, those numbers are typical of the most predatory fee harvesting cards available. Some applicants end up paying more than their line of credit is worth.

If you’re in the market for a subprime credit card, be sure to shop around for one with minimal fees. 

Payday Loans

These loans are cash advances that you must repay in a short amount of time – usually two weeks. The really horrific element is the interest; expect to pay $2,000 or more for the questionable privilege of borrowing $1,500. It’s not uncommon for payday loan borrowers to fall into a downward spiral of debt when they’re unable to repay the loan on time. They borrow more money, fall short again, and borrow still more, all at exorbitant interest rates.

Never, ever take out a payday loan. If you’re having a financial emergency, it’s far better to borrow from friends or family members than to accept money from a payday lender.

Credit Card Cash Advances

When you need money fast, it’s tempting to take out a cash advance through your credit card. But stop and take a moment to decide if this is something you really need to do. Different interest rates apply to cash advances than apply to regular purchases. You might use your credit card to pay your electric bill at an interest rate of 12%, but if you get a cash advance to pay the same bill, you can expect to pay 25-30% interest.

The costly interest rates of cash advances will keep you in debt longer than necessary. If you have to charge something, go ahead and charge it. But leave the cash advance option alone.

Your 401K

Cashing out of your 401K plan before age 59 ½ is a fast way to drain your retirement funds. Premature withdrawals will result in hefty fees, penalties, and taxation. No matter your age, it’s best to leave your 401K alone until you’re ready to retire. If you want an account that you can call upon in tough financial times, get a traditional savings account or put your money into a ROTH IRA which doesn’t penalize you for cashing out.