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Money saving tips, ideas and resources for
furlough Employees
Being without an income for an extended period of time can be hard on anyone. Knowing that you have a job, but aren’t getting paid, is even worse. Furlough employees may be at a loss as to how to provide for their families. Thankfully there are ways to get help. Let’s look at some money saving tips, ideas, and resources for furlough employees.
Look for Temporary Work
There are a number of companies that are working to provide furlough employees with temporary work. Check with unemployment agencies and see if they can help. You may also want to look for small jobs around your neighborhood or on CraigsList, like doing yard work or painting. Think about what you’re good at and how you can turn those skills into an income.
Cut Unneeded Expenses
Go through your bank statement and start cutting anything that isn’t necessary. Cut your cable or satellite bill, switch cell phone providers, drop your gym membership, etc. There are so many things you can cut and never even miss because you can do many of these things for free or at a huge discount.
Instead of feeling deprived from these cut backs, look for alternatives. Go for hikes, look on facebook events for free local events and activities in your town. Temporarily use a friends subscription login for things like Netflix, Amazon and Hulu.
Live Off Your Stockpile
If you’re the type to keep a stockpile, now is the time to utilize it. Be as creative as you can with the food you have on hand. Your meals may not be the best, but you’ll have food on the table.
Sell Things You Don’t Need
Go through your home and gather items you and your family no longer use. These items can be sold through Facebook groups, yard sales, or at pawn shops for instant cash. You can also sell items on eBay, Poshmark, and Mercari but it will take longer to get the funds.
Dip into Your Emergency Savings Account
This is a time when you can dip into your emergency savings account. While this is what the account is for, make sure you use the money sparingly. If you don’t really need it, don’t buy it. Once you get backpay, refill your account.
Reach Out to Food Banks
Many food banks work with furlough employees to make sure they have food for their families. If there are several furlough employees in your area, only use this resource if you absolutely have to. Remember, there are always those in worse shape than you that may need the resources more.
Contact Social Services
Last, but not least, reach out to Social Services to see if there are any programs available in your area to help furlough employees. You may qualify for temporary benefits.
Furlough employees have options to help pay their bills and keep their families fed. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Communities are pulling together to help those in need. Call 211 to get in contact with assistance in your area fro everything from health care, child care and utilities.
