 TITLE: What to Do if You Can’t Pay Your Credit Card Bills CONTENT: Call Your Credit Card Issuer\n----------------------------\nHow do you pay bills you can't afford? Once you've exhausted efforts to bring in more money or reduce your expenses, it's time to explore your other options. Among them is the possibility that your card company is willing to work with you to provide accommodations. Credit card companies are often understanding that financial situations change and may help you avoid a charge-off of your account. Before you make contact, do these two things:\n*   **Clarify your issue.** Are you experiencing a one-time issue—for example, an emergency car repair that depleted your bank accounts? Or will you be facing the same shortfalls month after month because your income has dropped? In a few words, what is the problem? Providing a clear, concise explanation to your card issuer can be helpful.\n*   **Create a plan.** If you can, try to figure out what might help. Would skipping a payment or two put you back on course? When would you be able to resume making normal payments? Would a lower monthly payment make a difference?\nIf you know what you might need, you're ready to contact your card issuer—the sooner, the better. Do not wait until you're behind in payments to contact your card company, as they may be less willing to help. When you call, explain your situation in detail. You may propose your own plan or ask what payment relief options they have and whether you're eligible. Many card companies will be able to offer at least some assistance. Examples include skip-a-pay programs that let you skip a few payments without penalty or adjusted payment plans with reduced interest rates.\nGet the details of any arrangement you make in writing. This helps you remember your terms and provides documentation in case there's any confusion with your card company going forward. END