The Survival Spending Plan: What to Pay First When Money’s Tight

If you’ve ever looked at your bills and realized the math doesn’t work… you're not alone. When money’s too tight to cover everything, the key is knowing what to pay first—and what can wait.

This is your survival spending plan.

1. Keep a Roof Over Your Head
Rent or mortgage comes first. Even if you’re behind, communicating with your landlord or lender helps. Housing stability is the foundation for everything else.

2. Essential Utilities
Focus on:

• Electricity
• Water
• Heat

Call the utility companies. Many offer payment plans or hardship programs. Staying connected can be more manageable than you think.

3. Food
You don’t need to eat fancy—just stay nourished. Use local food banks, pantries, and apply for SNAP if you qualify. No shame in surviving.

4. Transportation (Only If Needed)
If your car or gas gets you to work or critical appointments, keep that going. Otherwise, pause any unnecessary travel.

5. Minimum Payments on Critical Debts
Only pay:

• Loans that impact your job
• Debts with immediate consequences (like car loans if your car is essential)

Let others wait. Credit cards and collections can be dealt with later.

What Can Wait (For Now):

• Credit cards
• Subscriptions
• Unsecured personal loans
• Cable or streaming
• Non-essential shopping