5 Bills You Can Skip Or Postpone if Money is Tight

If you’re feeling the economic squeeze, don’t let bills overwhelm you right away—start prioritizing which ones to pay first and which you may be able to delay or skip paying altogether. The more proactive you can be about contacting billers or service providers to discuss your options, the more likely you are to have options still available.

Let’s look at five simple areas to start trimming your bills if times are tight.

1. Subscriptions

If you have monthly memberships or subscriptions, it’s a good idea to review them and decide which ones are still useful or relevant. Long-term passes are also something to consider getting rid of. Your annual membership at the gym, season passes for a sports team, streaming services, or an amusement park could be at least partially refundable. Be sure to cancel unwanted subscriptions.

Even if it’s just a few dollars, a recurring monthly charge is another bit of cash flow that can help take the pressure off. Look at all your reoccurring subscriptions and call and cancel any that can be eliminated.

2. Utilities

Contact your utility providers to discuss your situation. Some companies may offer payment plans or temporary relief options. Additionally, check if there are any government programs or assistance available to help with utility bills during financial hardships.

A simple call to those who you pay can always be a great option, even if they provide no help, you can say that you tried and see which bills really are completely necessary.

In conjunction with calling your utility provider, you can also try to keep the lights off when you are not at home. Make sure to keep them off during the day when there is light, and check them all before you leave the house. You can also do this with your water, AC system, and other household utilities to ensure that you are being efficient and not raising your bill unnecessarily.

3. Credit Card Payments

If you’re struggling to make credit card payments, contact your credit card issuer to discuss your situation. They may be able to offer temporary relief, such as waiving late fees or adjusting payment due dates.

Also ensure that you are not adding additional unnecessary charges to your credit card. Try to prioritize spending what money you do have, and not charging up your credit card and creating a large bill.

4. Auto Insurance Premiums

Contact your insurance provider to find out what kind of relief they can offer customers. Some companies may allow you to skip of delay payment without penalties or offer flexible payment plans during difficult times.

If your auto insurance is really high, you can also ask the provider if they can offer you a discount or lower your plan so that it doesn’t cost so much. If they offer you no options, call around to other auto insurance companies to see if you can find any lower rates that would provide you with a little more room for saving.

5. Internet

Consider downgrading your internet or cable plan to a more affordable option or explore free internet plans offered by certain providers. Some companies may also have special offers or discounts for customers facing financial difficulties.

It’s important to note that skipping or postponing bills should be a temporary solution and should be done after careful consideration. It’s always recommended to communicate with your service providers and explore all available options before making any decisions.

During times of financial difficulty, it can be really crucial to take a look at your spending habits. Where are you spending the most money? It is on necessities or is it on fast food, subscriptions, and shopping? Categorize each of your expenses and set a budget for yourself.

Always prioritize the necessities of life, and paying down bills and debt. Most people can find a few things here or there that can be eliminated from their budget.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

This article is for educational purposes only. WeStreet Credit Union makes no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, or specific suitability of any information presented. Information provided should not be relied on or interpreted as legal, tax or financial advice. Nor does the information directly relate to our products and/or services terms and conditions.