Financial distress does not always have to end in failure or even bankruptcy. If caught in time with the right guidance chances of overcoming this difficult situation has a greater chance of being rectified. By knowing the early warning signs and keeping them in check it is possible to identify them before the financial problem becomes critical. If you recognize any of these as applying to you, ask for help before it is too late.
Are you losing sleep at night because of your financial worries?
Are you neglecting to buy proper food or medication in order to make ends meet?
Are you avoiding the phone when it rings for fear of who is calling?
Do you find it difficult to keep utilities up to date?
Do finances cause stress and arguments at home?
Do you use credit for everyday living expenses?
Are you making only minimum payments on your credit cards?
Do you rely on overtime, tips or bonuses to make ends meet?
Have you consolidated debts and now have new credit card balances?
Do you take cash advances on one credit card to pay another?
Are you unsure of how much you owe in total?
Do you frequently apply for new sources of credit?
Scoring:
0 - 1
Overall, you are doing okay.
2 - 3
There's no crisis - yet - but you're heading for one.
4 - 5
You're definitely in the "Danger Zone" - call for help!
6 - 10
CRISIS ALERT!!!
If you feel you need our assistance and would like to contact us for a confidential review of your situation, please go to our Financial Awareness Form.