As a suburban pantry, we often see people who are newly in financial distress.
I have the same conversation about first steps with many people.
If you find yourself in financial distress and are unsure what to do first, here are some ideas for taking a bit of control of your situation. Depending upon how deep your troubles are, these will certainly not solve your entire problem, but the cumulative effect over time should alleviate some financial strain.
Cut off the cable
I know in our culture this feels like a "need," but it is actually a luxury that can be a fairly large expense. Yes, your kids will be disappointed. Yes, you may miss some shows you like. You will all adapt, and it is a good opportunity to find new hobbies.
However, you do not have to go completely without TV.
Depending upon where you live, you can get a digital receiver or antenna to receive some channels without a monthly cost. (http://antennatv.tv/free/ is one source of information to help with this process.)
Your local library likely has a large selection of DVDs that you can check out for free, and in larger areas (such as Henrico County, VA where I live) you can get additional titles from other libraries sent to your branch for no charge. Visit your library to find out how this works.
Also, the occasional splurge for a Redbox movie is far cheaper than a monthly cable bill.
(No DVD player? Check Goodwill. Also, if you were to contact my pantry and explain what you were trying to do, I would try to find you a donated used DVD player. I bet many other agencies would do this as well.)
Cut off the internet
If you have a student, this might be a hardship, so see if you are eligible for Internet Essentials.
Otherwise, home internet is something you can live without. If you have a laptop that can use WiFi, many public places offer free access.
No computer? No problem. Most public libraries have free internet usage. (In Henrico County, VA, you can use a computer with internet 2 hours per day if you have a free library card.) Check with your local library for details.
This is an inconvenience, but it is also a huge cost savings.
Minimize your phone bills
Cut off the home phone OR the cell phone.
Whichever phone you keep, check your plan and work to remove any extras and pare your services down to the bare minimum. You can always add services back when your situation improves.
Work with your power company before it's too late
Call the power company at the first sign you may not be able to pay in full. You may be able to get an extension or be put on a payment plan.
IF you get an extension or payment plan, DO NOT default on it. Your power company will not be likely to work with you in the future if you default.
If you have a medical need for electricity (such as a CPAP machine), then check with your power company about a medical extension. You will need a doctor to complete forms. This is generally longer than a normal extension.
Apply for free / reduced price meals for your school aged children
First off, this saves on your grocery bill. Some schools offer breakfast and lunch every day.
For kids who are picky or having a hard time transitioning, you may need to ease them in. Go over the school menu with them to help determine the days that they will "buy" meals on the program for the week. You could also send a simple snack (such as a piece of fruit or a granola bar) to go with those first few meals to help add a "touch of home." The goal would be to eventually have them eating as many meals as are available to them at the school.
Perhaps more importantly, being signed up for the school lunch program will make you eligible for other programs in your area. Some schools, PTAs, and agencies specifically target families enrolled in this program.
Talk to your children's guidance counselors
Not only can they help you apply for the lunch program, but they can also keep an eye out for your student during this difficult time and help connect you to other services you may need in your area.
Don't wait to apply with Social Services
If you know with certainty your situation is temporary, then you can wait.
Otherwise, contact Social Services in your area right away to see what you are eligible for and begin the application process. It can sometimes take weeks or months to begin receiving assistance.
SNAP (formerly Food Stamps) is available on a sliding scale. Even if you are eligible for a small amount of benefits, it is better than nothing.
Other tips? Feel free to leave a comment.
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