What to Do When You Can’t Make Your Minimum Payments

When life is unpredictable, you may find yourself in a financial bind and unable to make your minimum monthly payments. Whether it’s due to a sudden life change or you just feel like you’re drowning in bills, life happens.

Even though your first instinct might be to ignore those bills, the worst thing you can do is bury your head in the sand. Ignoring your bills only makes things worse as interest, late fees, and penalties pile up. The key is taking action, and the sooner, the better. Let’s take a look at a few things you can do to help you take control of your finances when times get tough.

Reach Out to Your Lender

Your first line of defense is to contact your lender. Contrary to popular belief, many lenders are willing to work with you during challenging times. If you’re a member of Scott Credit Union, their friendly professionals are always ready to help. A simple phone call can open doors to options you might not be aware of.

There are also financial assistance programs that may be available. Look into charity programs, government assistance, or financial aid options. Your lender may also provide financial assistance programs so be sure to ask.

Develop a Strategic Plan

Once you’ve initiated that important conversation, it’s time to devise a plan. There are two popular approaches: the debt snowball and the debt avalanche. The debt snowball involves paying off your smallest debt first, gaining momentum as you go. The debt avalanche, on the other hand, tackles high-interest debts first, ultimately saving you more in the long run.

As you create your plan, be sure to review your income and expenses. Identify items that are not necessities – your “wants” – and items that are “needs.” Once you do this, you may be able to cut out some of those “wants” temporarily and get back on track.

Consider Refinancing with Caution

Another option is to refinance your loans, but this comes with pros and cons. Refinancing can lower your monthly payments, but watch out for longer loan terms and potential fees. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, so make sure to discuss it with your lender to see if it’s the right move for you. The Home Loan Experts at Scott Credit Union can help you determine if refinancing your mortgage is a good option.

Seek Professional Guidance When Needed

If you’re still feeling a bit overwhelmed, you might want to reach out to a professional, like a financial advisor or debt counselor.  Financial advisors or debt counselors can provide personalized strategies tailored to your situation. Choose someone you trust and feel comfortable working with to guide you toward financial stability.

Remember, you’re not alone. Financial challenges are a part of life, but with the right knowledge and proactive steps, you can navigate through them.

For more helpful financial tips, check out Scott Credit Union’s Financial Education Playlist.