đź’ˇ What to Do When You Are in a Financial Emergency

A Step-by-Step Guide to Taking Control Quickly

A financial emergency can feel like the walls are closing in. Whether it’s a missed paycheck, a medical bill, car repair, or the threat of eviction — the stress is real and the time to act is now.

But panic doesn’t pay bills — action does.
Here’s exactly what to do when you're in a financial crisis.

🚨 Step 1: Don’t Freeze — Prioritize

Take a deep breath. You need to figure out what must be paid now and what can wait.

🔹 Immediate priorities:

  • Rent/mortgage

  • Utilities (electricity, water, gas)

  • Transportation (especially if it affects employment)

  • Medical needs

  • Food

🔹 Can often wait or be deferred:

  • Credit cards

  • Subscriptions

  • Non-essential services

Write everything down. Seeing it clearly gives you power.

đź“ž Step 2: Contact Creditors or Landlords Early

Don’t wait until you’re behind — call now.

Explain the situation. Ask:

  • Can they offer a grace period?

  • Do they have hardship programs?

  • Can they temporarily reduce your payment?

You might be surprised how many companies are willing to work with you when you’re upfront.

🧭 Step 3: Explore Our Emergency Financial Assistance

If you're a veteran, there are several organizations that offer rapid response grants, rental aid, utility help, and food assistance.

Use our portal’s Emergency Financial Help for Veterans page for a full breakdown of national and state programs that can get you support within days, not months.

Not a veteran? Many nonprofits and government programs still offer:

  • Rent relief

  • Utility vouchers

  • Food pantries

  • Local hardship grants

đź’Ľ Step 4: Increase Cash Flow (Temporarily)

Look for fast ways to bring in extra income:

  • Sell items you don’t need (online or locally)

  • Offer simple services (yard work, rides, tutoring)

  • Tap into gig platforms (Instacart, DoorDash, TaskRabbit)

  • Contact a local temp agency for short-term work

Every dollar counts right now — especially for covering immediate needs.

🧾 Step 5: Protect What You Can

If you’re worried about over-drafting or bounced payments:

  • Put your bank account on manual (pause autopay)

  • Prioritize accounts that affect your home, health, and job

  • Keep gas in your car and a little cash on hand

It’s not about fixing everything today — it’s about buying time and stability.

🧠 Step 6: Don’t Face It Alone

This is the moment to lean into your community:

  • Talk to a trusted friend or advisor

  • Call 2-1-1 (United Way’s free helpline for local resources)

  • If you’re a veteran, connect with your local VSO, VA social worker, or check out VeteranAssistant.com for tools, links, and emergency help

🛡️ Step 7: Rebuild When the Storm Passes

Once you've stabilized:

  • Create a bare-bones budget

  • Start building a small emergency fund

  • Get help from a nonprofit financial counselor if needed

Even $10/month set aside after the crisis can build a safety net next time.

✊ You’re Not Alone — And You’re Not Powerless

Financial emergencies are terrifying — but they are also temporary.

Whether you’re a single parent, veteran, or just between jobs, the key is to act quickly, ask for help, and prioritize what matters most.

You’ve made it this far — and you’re stronger than the moment you’re facing.

đź“ŤNeed Help Now?

Explore our [Emergency Resource Tool] and other resources to connect with verified, fast-acting support based on your current need and location.