Theres a difference between having a tight budget and being seriously stretched thin for cash.
What can you do to get money fast and get back on your feet again?
Its time to go into financial survival mode.
The National Foundation for Credit Counseling has anonline budget worksheetto help you tally everything up.
Most utilities have programs that help services stay up in times of hardship.
(Even internet access might not be necessary, but that depends on your job.)
This is your new emergency budget.
These calls can save you a few hundred dollars a year.
Just about any kind of bill can be reduced by asking, includingauto insurance.
Now might be the best time to shop around for better rates.
Although moving might not be an option right now, its something to consider down the line.
Consider renting out a room of your home, if necessary.
Transportation
Do you really need a car for work or that second car?
Using alternate transportation, if its available, could save you thousands.
Food banks (a.k.a.
food pantries) can help supplement your grocery trips too.
Find temporary work
Be relentless in looking for income.
Even small things like babysitting, tutoring, or running errands can help you stay afloat.
Explore loan options
If you need more cash right away, you haveseveral borrowing options.
Above all,avoid shady payday loans.
Its heartbreaking, but millions of people are simply doing what they have to do to get by.
Remember to take care of yourself as best you might during this difficult period.
This article was originally published on 11/14/13 and was updated on 7/22/19 to provide more thorough and current information.
