Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards | Re: Need Help

I've been there done that and still have to worry about money constantly. The best advice I can give is to take your whole pay and work out what you can afford to pay off each bill. Hypothetically say your gas bill is $40 a month (don't we wish!) you would need to pay at least $10 a week, but if you can afford it try to pay $15 to $20 so that it gets payed off sooner.Also budget in $10-$20 a week or fortnight for fun stuff so you don't feel deprived. Use this to buy a magazine, an ibs safe luna bar, hire a video etc. Then call the companies you owe money to and explain to them that you are in a pickle and can you pay this much per week/fortnight. Most companies are more than happy as long as you make regular payments. Also ask them if you are paying regularly can they waive the late fees. Most companies are also happy to do this.
I don't know about the US but the government here has a program for people in financial trouble. They provide free financial counselling and will even help you pay some bills. The charities (salvation army, st vincent de paul) will also help you out with bills but most often will provide you with a check to take to the supermarket which pays for your groceries so your grocery money can pay the bills. As far as cutting back when I get in trouble I cut back on junk food, things I don't really need (hate to say this but like the internet, pay tv etc) and just try to buy cheaper brands of stuff that the cheaper brands are okay (like homebrand sugar). It really does work. I've gone from being $6000 in debt 4 years ago to having my gas bill $300 AU in credit and most of my bills are the same.
Good luck. I hope I don't sound like I'm lecturing you or anything. Just that I totally know how you feel and there's so many things you can do. Good luck, big hugs and let us know how you're getting on with it all. Hope this is even a tiny bit helpful.

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Amy

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