Thousands of New Brunswickers are trying to make ends meet financially as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
President and CEO of Credit Counselling Services of Atlantic Canada John Eisner says if you have loans or a mortgage, you should be reaching out to your banks to see how they can help.
“Understanding what your options are. If you have been affected and have lost your job, it is vital you call the financial institutions who are making some different tools available.”
Eisner adds, your focus should be on the necessities, “That’s the roof over your head, whether it’s a mortgage, rent, food on the table, your hydro, your phone services. We still need to be connected because so many people are now isolated. Those are really the necessities at this time. If you are able to provide a small payment to your creditors, you should, but don’t lose sight of what is really important right now, which are the basics.”
Eisner adds that everyone should be receiving the services you receive, to see where you can make cuts.
“Everyone should be reviewing their expenses right now. Every line items needs to be looked at. For those who have lost their job, really don’t have a choice right now. Eliminate where you can. For those items you are saving on right now, like gas for instance. Prices are down, so where are you putting the money you are saving? You need to look at that as well,” Eisner says.
