Getting hurt at work can be a horrible thing. Not only do you have to worry about the pain, suffering and potential long-term issues that can go along with your injury, but you also have to worry about your inability to work. It can be hard enough to get by and take care of yourself and your family when you are able to work, and it can be impossible to keep your creditors at bay when you are out of work for an injury. Luckily, taking certain steps can help you when you’re out of work for an injury but when the bill collectors keep calling.
Prioritize Your Bills
If you are living on a limited amount of money for the time being, you’re going to have to prioritize your bills. Most people make it the top priority to pay their rent or mortgage, then their basic utilities, such as electricity and water. You may have to put things like your cable bill and subscription services on the back burner until you get your finances under control. Even though it can hurt your credit, credit card bills and other bills that aren’t necessities often have to be put off, too. It can be painful to be in a situation where you aren’t paying all of your bills on time, but ensuring that you and your family have safe, comfortable housing and food should be your top priority right now.
Talk to Your Creditors
Believe it or not, many creditors are more willing to work with customers. Don’t wait until things escalate out of control and you are far behind on your bills. As soon as you realize that you are going to be out of work for a while, it is smart to go ahead and call your creditors and let them know about the situation. Offer to provide proof of your work injury if they ask for it, such as by sending a letter from your doctor via fax.
Of course, your creditors are going to want their money eventually, so this won’t work forever. However, it can help get them off your back for right now. Depending on the account and the company that you are dealing with, you may be able to defer some of your payments or negotiate a lower payment temporarily. Some lenders, such as those that offer car loans or mortgages, will allow you to skip a payment and add the payment to the back end of your loan. The only way that you will be able to find out about your options is to call your creditors and talk to them, so this needs to be done as soon as possible.
Work With an Attorney
You want to make sure that your medical bills are paid and that you are compensated for the time that you are out of work by your employer’s insurance company. You may even need to apply for temporary or long-term disability to help you get by during this difficult time. Doing these things on your own can be tough, so it’s smart to work with a personal injury attorney who has experience in these matters. Then, you can talk to your lawyer about ensuring that you are paid what you are owed.
When you are hurt at work and the bill collectors are calling, it can be extremely stressful. The last thing that you should have to deal with while you’re injured and trying to heal is all of this additional stress, however, so consider these tips. You can also contact us at Meshbesher Law Firm for legal assistance that you can count on.
