 TITLE: How to Manage Payments if You’re Unemployed CONTENT: Reach Out to Your Lenders and Service Providers\n-----------------------------------------------\nIf you suspect you'll be late to pay a bill or won't be able to pay it at all, reach out to the lender or utility service in advance to let them know about your job loss. It's important to communicate with any business you pay regularly, including providers of loans and debts (car loans, credit card debts), utilities (cellphones, electricity) and insurance (car insurance, homeowners insurance).\nWhen you talk to your creditors, ask if there are any hardship options available for customers like you who are struggling to pay your bills due to unemployment. During some widespread crises, like natural disasters or the coronavirus pandemic, creditors often proactively offer more flexibility to impacted consumers. Sometimes these benefits aren't distributed automatically, and you must call your providers to find out if they can offer any temporary help.\nEven if you think you will be able to pay your bills on time, but will be cutting it close, it might still be worth inquiring about flexibility to give your budget more wiggle room. You may be able to negotiate for assistance such as delayed bill due dates, lower payments or loan forbearance, which gives you temporary relief from paying the loan if you're falling behind. Make sure you understand the specifics of the agreement, such as if you'll still be charged interest or your term will be extended, and get it in writing. END