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What do you do when all of a sudden the month is just beginning and the $$$$'s are gone? You put the emotion away and get crackin' with bill priorities and some cold hard facts about your bills... and maybe even the priorities in your life. Believe it or not, some bills are definitely more important than others. Don't forget, this is an emergency!
Rent/mortgage - You aren't getting very far without a roof over your head. If you're looking at long term financial distress you may have to consider selling or relocating, but clearly, housing is an essential.

Utilities - Housing also means utilities. Especially if there are youngsters, don't even think of eliminating gas or electric. Reduce usage as much as you can but insure you pay gas, electric, and water. The phone s a different story along with cable. The former is optional in moderation and the latter is "Get rid of it NOW!" until better times.

Child support - Unless jail is an option, child support is not. Plan to pay it.

Car Payment - If you need the car for a job, it is an essential. If there is an alternate transportation, the car and insurance may have to be a non-survivor.

Secured Debts - Secured debts are those assigned to a collateral (house, car, furniture, etc.). Creditors can often live with a late or missing payment or even two. Contact the creditor and explain the circumstance, but definitely do not just ignore your creditor. Yes, your credit may be hurt, but we are dealing with an emergency and wounds will occur. If the disaster is long term you may have to consider surrendering the property.

Unpaid Taxes - Negotiate payments but don't ignore this one. Consider it child support to your government.

Food - Just because food is a priority, it doesn't mean filet mignon. Common sense rules in this area.

Unsecured Debt - Unsecured debt are those loans without property attached: credit cards, department store loans, gas cards, medical bills, loans from friends. (Note: Student loans should be considered as a required debt.) Failing to pay these will eventually be very painful with your credit and good name but are probably the least devastating for the short term.

In Between Items - Medical insurance, children's "needs", and other debts unique to your circumstance will require a value judgment. How long is the emergency.. what can you live without... how bad is the situation... can the debts be delayed?

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The Process
List all your bills and their expected amounts. Sequence them according to their priority to be

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