 TITLE: How to Make Money Without a Job CONTENT: Cut Costs and Manage Payments When You're Unemployed\n----------------------------------------------------\nIf you've lost your job or your income has been reduced, now is a critical time to set a budget and get control of your finances. You may be limited in the ways you can bring in more money to your household budget, but you have a great deal of control over what you spend. When cutting costs, you'll focus on the things you can change, since expenses including your rent, utilities and other bills aren't very flexible. Think: streaming subscriptions, gym memberships and other bills considered discretionary. Here's how to start:\n*   **Re-evaluate your income.** Calculate how much money you expect to receive each month.\n*   **Take stock of your essential expenses.** How much do you need monthly for unavoidable costs such as housing, utilities, medical insurance and medical care, food, car expenses and credit card payments? Look at how you can reduce what you pay, as well. For instance, you may be able to reduce what you pay for car insurance, or spend less on groceries.\n*   **Minimize non-essential expenses.** Find ways to cut back where you can—even temporarily. You can always make those purchases again later on once you're able to make it work with your budget.\nSometimes, despite your best efforts, making every bill payment may not be possible. If you think you're about to fall short, contact your lenders, credit card companies, utilities and other creditors right away to let them know you're experiencing hardship. They may have accommodations that will help.\nKeep an eye on your credit as well. Losing your job can affect your credit if you have trouble making your regular debt payments. When it comes to credit cards and loans, every payment counts: Payment history is an influential factor in determining your credit score and payments that are 30 days or more past due can remain on your credit report for as long as seven years. END