I'm in a financial mess!

[riverwed070707]

While $650-700 doesn't sound like a lot for rent its 90% of your income. Its killing your budget. I agree with the others who suggest finding another single mom who might consider a roommate situation. You aren't the only one in this spot and you might be able to help each other out a lot.

I don't agree with those who say you should crash on mom and dads couch... You're doing great and if you can find a way to decrease your housing cost, you will have so much more breathing room. Have you looked into housing assistance? Seems like you should qualify but I know it can sometimes be hard to find places who will take it.

[TheKayla]

In your situation, you should be able to qualify for government subsidized housing as well. Look into that. Typically, you can get 'nicer' (aka nicer than the cheapest non-subsidized) places that are safe for your child on the cheap while you're making a smaller income. I lived in government housing awhile back when I needed it, and the rent was cheap, it was in a safe neighborhood, had a washer/dryer in the unit, energy efficient appliances, etc.

Besides that, try to pick up as many extra hours as you can while paying off some of your debts to free up some cash flow. What is your current job? Consider looking into some higher paying part-time work if it's you're only option, like waiting tables or housekeeping, I had good luck with those while in college. You get plenty in tips from waiting tables, and housekeeping tends to get tips, plus be above the minimum wage, plus it has a higher turnover rate since its a more physical job -- which means those who stick it out get more hours.

If you can find a good roommate, you could move into a two bedroom at $750-800 and split expenses, bringing your rent down to ~$400, you'd also be splitting utility costs.

Can you sell some things? Have a garage sale? Donate plasma? Turn in cans? Do temp jobs you find on craigslist? Things like that will bring in more immediate income. I think you're biggest ticket right now is to clear out those old debts to take those bills of the table so you can balance your budget, then everything else is going to be a matter of finding cheaper housing, cutting electric prices, etc.

If it gets worse, a bigger option would be to move to a cheaper part of the country to get your head above water, even if only temporary. Here in Iowa apartments in the city are between $300-$450 with roommates, and we have a higher minimum wage as well -- look into cost of living and wage averages in different parts of the country and perhaps find another solution that can help get you ahead.

[wenice]

You're really on a tough situation but believe that sooner, you can overcome such financial mess. The first thing that you should do is to keep your determination in achieving your goals and dreams, next is to examine again your expenses and check if there are things that you can do to lessen them. It's only you who can do something about it. Don't try to add another debt.

[rutgers07]

I don't know what state you live in but here in VT, there are several programs to help single mothers. We have an economic services division in my town so I don't know what it might be where you are but you might want to ask around. There are usually ways to have some extra assistance, just have to know where to find it. Good luck

[lbufal28]

Believe it or not, your doing the right thing

I'm not gunna sit here and lie. You've got a tough situation in front of you. The good news is that your making the right decisions. Without a college degree in today's world you don't stand a snowballs chance in hell so stay determined. If you are smart enough to recognize you need a degree you are smart enough to earn one. Hopefully you picked a major that could serve you well when you get out. Don't get me wrong, you should always try to find something you can b passionate about but there is always the reality of being able to live. I wanted to b an artist but at the end of the day I didn't have that luxury because I needed a degree I could make a life with so I am now a commissioned officer in the army. I still love art but I have accepted it as a hobby. Just something to think about. Also just remember that there is good debt and bad debt. Try not to worry about ur school loans. But at all costs avoid credit card debt. Take it from someone who knows. I make good money but ended up racking up 8k dollars on one card. It scared me and I realized there was no way I could get out of it. I ended up using all the bonds I had recieved for my birthday since I was 7yrs old. I was fortunate I had a way out but that was over 8k dollars saved for over a decade wasted because I was foolish. So be careful to avoid that. If you stay strong and keep your head up you can be extremely successful. Best of luck to you.