There’s no denying that the coronavirus pandemic had significant effects on the US economy. Understandably, many Americans were forced to make drastic budgetary changes during that time; more than a few found themselves behind on the bills. And now that credit card use is back to levels last seen during the pandemic, it’s likely that the American public will continue to struggle even more.
But since 35% of your credit score depends on how promptly you pay your bills, it’s worth knowing which bills you should prioritize — and what to do when you seem to be out of options. If you’re in financial trouble, here are a few tips to keep in mind when you’re planning out your financial affairs:
Identify Which Bills to Pay First
Under normal circumstances, you’d probably prioritize your bills by which debts come with the highest interest rates. While that’s still a valuable idea to keep in mind, you’ll need to concern yourself with the absolute necessities first — especially as eviction processes have resumed once more. Your rent or mortgage payments, food, medications, and utilities should come first. Car payments and cell phone bills should come after, followed by other debts and loans. Back taxes and student loans don’t really need to be on your radar right now if you’re strapped for cash. Once you organize what you owe, you’ll have a clearer picture of your list of priorities.
Contact Your Creditors For Assistance
It’s worth noting that many lenders make every effort to work with delinquent borrowers. However, you can’t simply assume that you’ll be okay not to make payments. You need to contact your utility company, your credit card company, and any other lenders as soon as you know you won’t be able to make a payment. More than likely, they’ll be willing to work with you on a repayment plan or on some kind of payment structure that allows you to make partial payments until you get back on your feet. But it’s important that you be proactive and upfront with your creditors. In some cases, legal protections won’t keep your services from being turned off if you haven’t done your due diligence.
Beware of Debt Relief Options
When times are tough, debt relief or settlement companies may sound like an attractive option. But before you enroll in any kind of debt relief program, you’ll want to read the fine print and make sure you have a complete understanding of the risks involved. In some situations, a company might offer debt relief or consolidation, but it might turn out that they’re actually offering a loan. In other scenarios, working with a debt relief company could actually hurt your credit score. Be sure to conduct thorough research and look for customer reviews before resorting to this type of program. In many cases, working with a credit counselor may be a much better option.
Dealing with debts of any magnitude can bring on a substantial amount of stress — and during these uncertain times, that’s the last thing anyone needs. But if you’re facing undue financial hardship, it’s important to get ahead of the situation before it spirals out of control. With these tips in mind, you’ll be in a better position to be in control of your finances — even when so much is outside your control.
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No offense, Corazon, but I don’t like this article. With the exception of the last section, about debt relief, its nearly a page 1 rewrite. Here’s my advice:
1. Go punch yourself in the face. You should’ve had an emergency fund. Why weren’t you forward thinking enough to know that a rainy day would eventually arrive? Hopefully this is a good lesson for you and you’ll change your habits in the future.
2. Cancel everything. This should’ve been the first thing you did when you lost your job. Cable TV? NO! You are unemployed. You don’t get luxuries. If its not mortgage/rent, car, insurance, or gas and electricity payments – cancel it!
3. Hustle! There is work out there. Go find it. Don’t be lazy! Don’t think you’re better than the work you can find! I had a friend who made it through a hard time by sweeping parking lots. Not glamorous, but it kept him from losing his home.
4. Learn from your past stupidity. We touched on this earlier. Hopefully the stress and fear that you are feeling now will be enough for you to plan ahead. Create an emergency fund, and I know this is a wild concept, but live within your means.