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Most of the time being broke is just a state of mind. Many of those who say they are broke have resources that they have never or rarely tapped. Usually, there are friends or family that would step to the plate if they actually knew your destitute state. The problem is that people don't want to admit to someone that they've kept in the dark that they are in financial trouble.

I have known family members that when finally approached were able to make loans or gifts in the thousands of dollars to buy time or fix the situation completely. Sometimes you just have to swallow your pride and ask.

There are many agencies, pantries, and churches that can offer some support if you don't let the situation get completely out of hand. A rule of thumb is that if you need over $100 most churches and church related organizations can't help unless they can contribute to a pool that makes up the total amount. Some relief agencies can go up to $500 or more in help.

Usually you have some items that can be sold or pawned to raise emergency cash of $200 or less. Looking for car pools and other ways to cut costs can help stretch your money beyond the next payday.

Know how much debt you have and make a plan to reduce or eliminate any of it that you can. This is especially true of charge cards with high interest rates attached. If a debt can be renegotiated for a lesser payment or interest, give it a shot. All they can say is no. You won't go backwards. The worse you can end up by asking is to stay the same, and sometimes, you get lucky!

Don't be afraid of food stamps, rent or utility subsidies, or anything else you can get through family services. Go ask. Look for a part-time steady income. Even $30-50 per week can start to have in impact in many cases.

Learn more about this author, Allen Teal.
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