Facing Financial Uncertainty? Prioritize!
At some point in your life, you may face a decrease in income, job loss, or financial emergency. Until your financial situation stabilizes, it’s best to prioritize spending to ensure the health and safety of you and your family.
Mortgage or Rent?
Keep a roof over your head and your mortgage out of default by paying your rent or home loan, homeowner’s insurance, association fees and property taxes.
Utilities
Pay heat, electric, and water bills to prevent shut-off. If you have trouble paying, contact providers about assistance programs and eligibility. Cancel or ask for a temporary suspension of all unnecessary services such as cell/landline telephone, cable/satellite television, internet, etc.
Food
Stay healthy with nutritious, home-cooked meals. Plan your meals, shop with a list, avoid restaurants, clip coupons, shop sales and use local community food programs.
Healthcare
Maintain your health with medical and prescription care. Ask your medical provider about prescription drug discount programs, other ways to reduce health care costs and payment assistance programs
Insurance Premiums
Vehicle insurance premiums tend to be less costly if there are no lapses in coverage. Contact agents to compare quotes, examine coverage needs, make changes to deductibles, and check on eligibility for discounts.
Secured Debts
Avoid repossession by keeping up on payments where an asset is pledged as collateral. Ask the lender if you can pay interest only, skip a payment or defer payments to the end of the loan.
Student Loans and Tax Payments
Take action by contacting your student loan lender about special payment arrangements to avoid default. If you owe state or federal taxes, contact each government entity about tax resolution and repayment plans.
Unsecured Debt
Unsecured debts include credit cards, signature loans and personal loans where no collateral is involved. Collection calls may result, but until your finances improve, these creditors may have to wait for payment until the other basic living needs are covered.
It's also a good idea to call your lenders/creditors to let them know what's going on and that you intend to pay as soon as you are able. And once your financial situation improves, start paying them back ASAP. You can also check into financial counseling to determine your best repayment options with those unsecured debts.
If you have fallen behind on any bills, check out these blog posts for more information:
What to Do if You're Behind on Your Bills
Using Crisis Budgeting During Tight Financial Times
Call LSS Financial Counseling 888.577.2227 to discuss debt management strategies, student loan payments, and mortgage foreclosure prevention options.