2023年10月20日 • 3分钟
If you’ve been affected by layoffs, try to remember that this is a temporary setback. Job hunting can be stressful and frustrating, but it’s not forever. To 帮助 yourself through this difficult time, take care of yourself both physically and mentally. You’ll want to update your resume, 开始网络, and search job boards — but you’ll feel better if you eat well, 定期锻炼, 保证充足的睡眠.
It’s also important to take care of yourself financially. With careful planning and budgeting, you can get back on your feet without accumulating too much debt. 如果你已经有了 应急基金, now is the time that it can 帮助 you.
If you already have a budget, great! This is an important time to revisit your plan and start tracking your spending to 了解你的开支 and figure out where you can cut back.
If you don’t have one, now’s the time to 制定预算 to keep your money from slipping away unnoticed. You want to take charge of decisions such as what to buy, when to buy it, and why.
As noted above, if you have an 应急基金，现在是时候使用了. If you don’t have one, plan to start one as soon as you have regular income again. Aim to save at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses. This will give you a financial cushion in case you lose your job again.
Pay off your high-interest debt first to save money on interest in the long run — and, 如果可以的话, increase payments on your credit cards to pay off 你的债务 faster.”
In addition to your monthly bills and expenses, you also need to have a clear picture of your outstanding debt. Make a list of all your credit card debts and existing loans. In your list, include the balance, interest rate, and minimum payment for each.
If you can continue making the minimum payments, that’s great. If not, you may need to prioritize. 一般来说, paying off your high-interest debt 应该优先考虑. This will save you money on interest in the long run.
You may also want to consider consolidating 你的债务. 债务合并 can 帮助 you get a lower interest rate and make it easier to manage your monthly payments.
If you have a Patelco credit card in addition to credit card(s) at other financial institutions, you should consider whether a 资产转移 将帮助. 我们的 信用卡利率 are typically lower than what other banks offer. 不像银行, Patelco charges zero 资产转移 fees – so you can enjoy our lower rates without the fee.
Sticking to debit cards and paying with cash is a great way to keep within your budget during a difficult time. Only charge to your credit card what you can afford to pay off in full each month. Keep in mind it’s not a good idea to close your credit card accounts right now, 虽然——它可能会伤害你的 信用评分.
Whether you use your skills to make money working from home or find a part-time job, you might as well earn some extra income while you’re looking for a new job. You may even find your next career through your part time work.
The other advantage of part-time work – including gig work like delivery or personal shopper – is that it can give you a much-needed mental break from searching for a job.
Don’t be afraid to ask for 帮助. There are many resources available to 帮助 people who are struggling financially. If you’re struggling to make payments, you may be able to negotiate with your creditors or even 你的房东. They may allow you to lower your interest rate or monthly payments.
If you’re struggling to cope with the stress of being laid off, don’t be afraid to ask for 帮助 from friends, 家庭还是专业人士. There are people who can 帮助 you through this difficult time.
Patelco has also put together links to 本地资源 that can 帮助 with everyday expenses.
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