It can be a difficult experience when money is tight, and there are many situations that can throw you in financial distress. For instance, you could be laid off, your salary may be reduced, or your business may be struggling.
However, there are some options available for those who feel they have hit a wall. For instance, the Canadian government has recently introduced a few new programs to help citizens who are struggling financially. The Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB) is one such program that seeks to support struggling employed and self-employed citizens. However, if you are struggling and you don’t qualify for the CRB, there are other ways in which you can make ends meet. Here are four tips to get you started:
- Take a soft loan
Financial experts discourage consumption credit, especially when you use it to fund a lifestyle you cannot afford. However, if your anticipated income is enough to cover the debt in full and leave you with money to live on, then getting a low-cost soft loan from Canadian lenders may be a wise financial decision.
Studies have linked persistent financial distress to mental health issues like depression, anxiety, among other disorders. Constantly stressing over finances can lower your productivity and impede your ability to make and execute financial recovery plans. If you can afford a soft loan, it may be wise to take it to aid you in your financial goals and help build your credit rating.
However, if you’re already swamped with debt and are struggling to repay it, taking on more debt could plunge you into a deeper mess. In this case, consider talking to your lenders to see whether they can allow you to defer payments while you sort yourself out.
- Source for more income
Chances are you have exhausted your emergency fund, or it’s near depletion. Given that your current income is not sufficient, consider taking an extra job or doing a side business if your schedule allows. If you’re running a business, exploit every available and inexpensive marketing option to get more clients on board.
- Cut down on your spending
If you haven’t downsized your budget, doing it now can help save extra money to cater to your necessities. Analyze your monthly or weekly expenditures and strike off anything that falls under “wants”. For instance, you may have to cancel expensive memberships and subscriptions and downgrade to cheaper options, if you even need them to begin with.
Your grocery list is another area you need to take stock of. As much as you can, shop in bulk to get quantity discounts, and substitute luxurious food choices with cheaper but healthier options.
- Explore alternative hardship assistance programs
The Canada Recovery Benefit is just one of the many programs from the government to help struggling individuals. There are many other grants available, not just from the government, but from other institutions within our community. Do your research, and find out the programs under which you may be eligible.
Endnote
If you are struggling financially, you should combat financial distress as soon as you can, as prolonged suffering is harmful to your mental health and can easily impede your productivity. Don’t lose hope if you don’t qualify for the CRB; combining the above tips with a solid financial plan will help you make ends meet and hasten your financial recovery.