If you’re behind on payments, here’s how to start recovering.
You are not alone
At some point in life, most of us encounter financial hardship. It can leave us struggling to pay the rent or mortgage, cover a loan or credit card bill, or make ends meet.
Here are 5 practical steps to find support, and get back on track:
- Focus on the essentials
- Ask for help
- Use a budget
- Communicate with creditors
- Put your plan into action
1) Focus on the essentials
When money is tight, it’s easy to panic about every overdue bill. But your 1st priority should be covering essential expenses:
- Housing (rent or mortgage)
- Food
- Utilities
- Transportation
Without these basics, it’s nearly impossible to recover. While credit cards and medical bills matter, they come 2nd to keeping a roof over your head and food on the table.
Quick tip: If you’re behind on essentials like utilities, call your provider and ask about hardship programs or payment extensions.
2) Ask for help
Financial struggles can feel isolating, but you don’t have to face them alone. At Numerica, your financial well-being is our mission. That’s why we partner with GreenPath Financial Wellness, a nonprofit offering free, confidential counseling.
3) Commit to using a budget
When you don’t have enough money, making a budget might sound pointless. In reality, it’s one of the best tools you have.
A budget helps you:
- See where your money goes
- Prioritize what gets paid first
- Identify areas to cut back
Think of it as your roadmap out of financial hardship. Even when money is tight, a budget gives you clarity and peace of mind.
Quick tip: Use our budgeting resources to get started:
4) Talk to your creditors
Avoiding calls and letters from creditors can make things worse. Often, lenders and service providers would rather work with you than send your account to collections.
By reaching out, you may find options like:
- Lower monthly payments
- Temporary payment pauses
- Hardship programs that protect your credit
Quick tip: Pick one creditor and call them today to explain your situation. Use Numerica’s credit resources to prepare:
5) Put your plan into action
This step is the hardest, but also the most powerful. Once you’ve identified your essentials, asked for help, created a budget, and talked with creditors, it’s time to follow through.
It may mean cutting non-essentials for a season, but every choice moves you closer to financial relief. Remember: this moment doesn’t define you. You can rebuild.
Quick tip: Choose one small step from this list and start it now.
You’re not alone when you can’t pay your bills
When you feel like you can’t pay your bills, there are resources and people ready to help. With the right tools, support, and determination, you can move toward financial stability.
Questions for us? Visit a branch or call 800.433.1837.
Reviewed October 2025
Updated by the Numerica Financial Engagement Team
