Many women feel completely lost following a divorce or death of a husband. Besides the overwhelming emotions that such an event can produce, often it is the husband that handles the finances of the family. Anyone who has taken a job that has recently been vacated by someone else can understand the likely confusion that ensues as one must attempt to make sense of the records/system left behind by others. Fortunately, there are several resources that can assist women in such situations.
Mind Your Finances's debt management counselors are very capable of providing budgetary assistance and other general advice to establish sound financial practices. If a matter of a more delicate nature presents itself, and our counselors are unable to respond (such as a question relating to taxes), a referral can be made, instantly, through our Directory of Social Service Providers to an agency that can help.
One would do well to remember, too, that creditors are not always people/companies that are devoid of compassion. Many of them understand about hardship situations, as they are a painfully obvious reality for everyone at times. Creditors are frequently willing to make adjustments to payment schedules if they receive a telephone call before a payment is due, explaining the hardship, and asking for whatever assistance is available.
Just having endured the hardship of a divorce or death of spouse, formulating a budget to live within can seem like a daunting experience. However, if one sets aside some quiet time and realistically plans for one's needs, a budget can be a comfort in some of the rougher times ahead!
This archived guidance cannot account for your personal circumstances and does not replace regulated financial, legal or tax advice.