Who can blame you if money isn’t the first thing on your mind when you’re sick or injured? You’re probably just wondering how long it will be before you start feeling better. Eventually, though, you’ll need to turn your attention to finances, especially once the bills start piling up.
Continuing to pay bills after an injury is not optional. Missing payments can have serious consequences, including increased interest on credit cards or even the risk of losing your car or home. But there are ways to weather this storm and stay on top of your bills. Let’s take a look at some steps worth taking.
Get started with employer and payment options
The first place to look is your workplace. Many people overlook benefit simply because they’ve never needed them before, but make sure you take stock of what’s available to you. This may include:
- Sick time
- Vacation days
- Paid vacation
Even partial payment can buy you time and prevent you from falling behind immediately, so don’t be afraid to get creative. Some employers also offer short-term disability coverage, which can replace part of your income during a sick leave.
It may seem strange to start these conversations, but it’s better than guessing or assuming you don’t have a chance. Ask what it costs and how long the benefits last. You will also need to think about what document is required, as you have probably never gone through this process before.
If your injury or illness is related to your job in any way, workers’ compensation will be a lifesaver for you and your family. It is designed to help when and may cover medical treatment and/or replace some of your lost income during recovery.
Not every situation qualifies and the rules are subject to change depending on where you live. However, if there is any connection between your condition and your job, it is worth investigating. Many people assume they don’t qualify and lose the benefits they were entitled to all along.
Reduce your expenses
When your income slows down, the best thing you can do to regain stability is to control your spending. You don’t necessarily need to overhaul your lifestyle or make permanent sacrifices. Instead, the goal is to reduce financial strain while you recover.
Start by cutting out anything non-essential on your expense sheet. Low-hanging fruit includes subscriptions, streaming services, food delivery apps, memberships you haven’t used in months, etc. These are usually easy to stop or cancel without much downside.
You should also consider flexible billing options. Many utility companies and lenders offer short-term hardship options if you explain your situation. You can also explore government programs that can help with food, bills and housing. (More on this below.
Emotionally, this is one of the most difficult steps. However, it is also one of the smartest. If you know you’re going to struggle with things like rent, loan payments or credit cards, get in touch ahead you miss a payment date. You have many more options ahead of time than you do after the fact. Many creditors would rather work with you than chase up missed payments. Being proactive shows responsibility, not weakness. It can also protect your credit during what is already a stressful time.
See Temporary Assistance Programs
If your recovery is taking longer than expected, outside help may be an option to consider. This is exactly what these programs exist for.
Local and government resources can help with food, shelter, utilities, or medical expenses. You may not qualify for everything and the application process can take time, but even some support can ease the pressure you’re facing.
Consider alternative income
This option is not realistic for everyone, especially depending on the nature of your injury. However, if your doctor approves it, there may be options for you. Even if it’s only $100 to $200 in income per month, it can allow you to pay some of your bills.
Online work or independent errands will probably be your best bet here, as you can usually complete them from the comfort of your own home. Customer service and phone related jobs are especially good options.
Where to go from here
Getting hurt or sick is never convenient. But it’s especially costly when it prevents you from working. Fortunately, as we’ve shown above, there are ways to keep paying your bills even when things get challenging. Keep these in mind and don’t be afraid to contact an attorney if you think you need help with workers’ compensation or other legal rights.
