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Chapter 2 3 Intl
Chapter 2 3 Intl
org/blog/
how-do-i-manage-debt-when-i-am-
unemployed
Unemployment is stressful, especially when you’re dealing with debt. Whether you
recently lost your job or have been unemployed for a few months, it’s important to make
sure you can pay your bills each month—including your credit card bills and other
unsecured loans.
But there’s probably one big question on your mind: How do I manage my debt?
There are several steps to take if you are dealing with debt and unemployment:
The rules for unemployment vary by state, but you’ll want to file for unemployment as
soon as possible. Even though the benefit amounts are based on a percentage of your
previous salary, every dollar counts when you’re dealing with debt payments and other
monthly expenses.
The first step is to file with your state and contact the State Unemployment Insurance
agency.
A good place to start would be flexible side hustles with low start-up costs. If you have a
car, you can sign up for a rideshare program or work part time as a delivery driver.
Whatever you can do to safely bring in income will help increase your options and make
managing your debts a little easier.
As soon as you know that your income will be reduced, connect with your loan servicer
to discuss available options and begin the application process. While deferment may
add additional interest costs and both options will increase the length of time spent
repaying your loans, both options will provide immediate financial relief and prevent
your loans from falling into delinquency.
That's why you should reach out to your creditors before you start missing payments.
They may be able to place you on a hardship program or a temporary deferment. They
also may not be able to help at all. You won't know until you reach out for help, though,
so check in with your creditors as soon as possible.
It's important that you set your priorities and spend accordingly. If you have no income
and minimal savings, for instance, you probably can't afford to spend money on
anything other than the essentials. Remember that the safety and wellbeing of you and
your family comes first. That means shelter, food, and good health come well before
credit card payments.
If you need help understanding what you can afford, consider speaking with a certified
credit counselor. Counseling is free and designed to help you understand the best ways
to reach your financial goals. If you're feeling overwhelmed, a confidential, judgment-
free session with a credit counselor is a great first step.
“It’s not often that we advise bankruptcy, but the laws exist for a reason," says Tuck. It
can be a difficult process to navigate and it will likely damage your credit deeply, but
that doesn't mean it isn't right for you. "Sometimes it is the only viable option,” says
Tuck.