How to Get Help Paying Bills
You can get help paying bills from government agencies and private organizations, depending on your age, income, whether you have children, veteran status and other circumstances that affect your eligibility. If you're behind in your rent or utility bills, have unexpected medical bills you can't pay, are receiving calls from collection agencies or are overwhelmed in credit card debt, there's no shame in seeking help paying your bills from the many places that are there to help.
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Instructions
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Decide what bills are a priority to pay and seek a solution for those first. Make a list of agencies or charities that specialize in helping with those specific bills, along with their contact information. Search for various agencies online or in your yellow pages.
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If utility bills are a priority, see the website for the Administration for Family and Children's Low Income Home Energy Assistance program. This is administered by the states, so look for contact information for your state's LIHEAP office.
If mortgage foreclosure is your concern, see the HUD website for several programs that assist you if you face foreclosure.
Local offices of general charities such as the Salvation Army or the United Way offer programs to help people pay bills and to find job resources.
Also look into any groups you're affiliated with, such as church or fraternal organizations, as well as local offices such as your city's community action, housing or health department.
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Begin contacting the organizations on the list you've compiled. Some may not be able to help you with your bills in your particular situation, but don't be discouraged. There are numerous organizations that specialize in specific needs, so rejection isn't a sign you're not worthy of help, just that you need to find the right organization for your situation. Ask each person you contact if they know of other agencies or charities that may be able to help with your bills and add the new names to your list. Ask for details on how and where to apply specifically and what documents you'll need.
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Assemble as much information as you can about your situation and apply in person, by phone, or online. Records that show your income, the specific bills you're behind on, proof of hardship such as unemployment or a disability, and your driver's license or other ID are the kinds of things that may be required. Also ask if there is anyone who can offer advice on how to lower your bills in the future, either by assisting you negotiate settlements with creditors, helping you make up a budget, providing a way to earn more income such as employment training or weatherizing a home or refinancing a loan at a lower rate.
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Tips & Warnings
The Access Project assists you in learning the facts about the current health-care and medical debt situation.
References
Resources
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