We are living in unprecedented times: the shut down from the pandemic, job loss, job furloughs, lost wages, small businesses still not open or closed for good, increased living expenses from staying at home, increased food and transportation costs and the stress from riots and curfews over social injustices. It is safe to say most, if not all of us, are suffering financial loss.

Recently, USA Today reported that 59% of Americans were living paycheck to paycheck for a variety of reasons.

If the pandemic financial hardships have pushed you into unmanageable debt, then you may need professional advice. You shouldn’t try to get through it alone. You possibly need a few more tools in your toolbox.

An article online from CNBC gave some advice for dealing with creditors, such as credit card companies. It may surprise you to know how many things are negotiable with your credit card company. Here are some suggestions:

• Be proactive and contact the company.
• Explain to them how COVID-19 is affecting your finances.
• Find out if they have a hardship waiver.
• Ask if they can refund interest charges or late fees.
• Request a lower interest rate on card balances.

Knowing when to seek help is good for your health

Anxiety and depression can be silent killers. Taking action to solve financial problems reduces anxiety. Get relief and professional advice now. Learn more about your options.

Ted Stuckenschneider is Board Certified in Consumer Bankruptcy by the American Board of Certification and has been for over 20 years. He has helped counsel thousands of people through financial hardship either through some form of consumer bankruptcy or how to avoid it.