How to Find Help Paying Your Bills This Month
Key takeaways
- Several types of short-term loans may help cover bills when money is tight.
- Community programs and government assistance are available for specific expenses like utilities and rent.
- Many service providers offer payment plans or hardship programs. It's worth asking.
- Seeing if you're eligible for an Advance America loan won't affect your credit score.
When bills start to pile up, it can feel like there's no good way forward. But whether you're behind on rent, utilities, or an unexpected expense, there are options that can help — from short-term loans to community resources and practical strategies you can use right now.
Help paying utility bills
Struggling to keep up with water, gas, or other utility bills is more common than you might think. Programs like LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) and local nonprofit organizations can help cover costs for qualifying households. A short-term loan may also help bridge the gap until your next paycheck arrives.
Learn more about getting help with utility bills →
Help paying electric bills
Electric bills can spike quickly, especially during peak seasons. If you're behind on your electric bill, contact your provider first — many offer payment plans or hardship programs for customers who ask. If you need funds right away, a short-term loan may be an option worth exploring.
Learn more about getting help with your electric bill →
Help paying rent
If rent is due and the money isn't there, acting quickly matters. Emergency rental assistance programs are available in many states, and local organizations through 211.org can connect you with resources in your area. A short-term loan may also help you avoid a late fee or gap in coverage.
Learn more about getting help paying rent →
Help paying vet bills
Unexpected vet bills can be one of the most stressful financial surprises. Some veterinary offices offer payment plans, and nonprofit organizations exist specifically to help pet owners cover emergency care costs. If you need funds quickly, a short-term loan may be a practical option.
Learn more about getting help with vet bills →
Help paying car insurance
Letting your car insurance lapse can lead to bigger problems down the road, including fines, license suspension, or gaps in coverage. If you're struggling to make your payment, contact your provider about a grace period or adjusted payment plan. A short-term loan may also help you keep your policy in place.
Learn more about getting help with car insurance payments →
4 types of loans to help pay bills
- A payday loan is a small-dollar, short-term loan designed to cover immediate or unexpected expenses. You then repay your loan in full the next time you get paid — usually in two to four weeks.
- An installment loan lets you borrow a lump sum of money upfront, which you then repay over time in fixed monthly payments. This can be a good fit if you need to borrow a larger amount than a payday loan can provide.
- A title loan is a secured loan that uses your vehicle as collateral. The lender appraises your vehicle and offers you a loan amount worth a percentage of its value.
- A personal line of credit is a flexible borrowing option that lets you take the amount you need (up to your approved limit). You only pay for what you use, and your line stays open for when you need it.
Other ways to get money to pay bills
If a loan isn't the right fit right now, there are other ways to find financial relief:
- Negotiate your bills. It's not widely known, but some bills are negotiable. Call your service provider and ask about payment plans, reduced rates, or hardship programs.
- Seek government assistance. The website USA.gov/benefits can connect you with federal financial assistance for utilities, rent, and food.
- Connect with local organizations. Many nonprofits offer emergency financial assistance. Dial 211 or visit 211.org for resources in your area.
- Sell unwanted items. Online marketplaces make it easy to turn unused items into quick cash.
- Seek credit counseling. A nonprofit credit counselor can help you create a plan to manage bills and debt over time.
Advance America is so helpful when I'm overwhelmed with bills and need to get caught up.
- Cherie, customer since 2020
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FAQs about getting help paying bills
What should I do if I need help paying bills this month?
Don't wait. Start by contacting your service providers to ask about payment plans or hardship programs. From there, explore community resources through 211.org and consider whether a short-term loan could help cover the gap.
Will applying for a loan affect my credit score?
Seeing if you're eligible for an Advance America loan won't impact your FICO or VantageScore. We encourage you to explore your options before signing any loan agreement.
How quickly can I get funds from a short-term loan?
It depends on the lender and your bank's processing times. At Advance America, online approvals before 10:30 a.m. ET (Monday–Friday) are typically funded to your bank account by 5:00 p.m. ET the same day. Approvals after 10:30 a.m. ET are typically funded on the next business day.
Notice: Information provided in this article is for informational purposes only. Consult your attorney or financial advisor about your financial circumstances.
About the author
Jalin Coblentz has contributed to Advance America since 2023. His experiences as a parent, full-time traveler, and skilled tradesman give him fresh insight into every personal finance topic he explores.
