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Ask Crystal: How can I budget when I’m so far behind?

Ask Crystal: How can I budget when I’m so far behind?

Every Thursday in 2025, I’ll be answering a question on money and/or budgeting. If you have a question you’d love for me to answer in an upcoming post, please submit it here.

Today’s question is from Rachael:

I am so behind on my regular monthly bills, like my electric, rent, and water so every time I feel like I get close to getting caught up another month is here and I am behind all over again. I was without a job for 3 months and even though I have been working since September, I am still struggling and I cannot make a budget (that works) when my entire paycheck goes toward trying to get caught up. I still have to buy groceries and put gas in the car but I spend as little as possible in order to try to keep the lights on and not get evicted. I know there has got to be a better way and would really appreciate any advice. – Rachael

First, I want to say that I hear you. You’re working hard, you’re trying your best, and yet, it feels like you’re treading water and barely staying afloat.

I know that feeling because I’ve felt it, too. I remember when Jesse was in law school and our income was so meager and it felt like every penny we made went straight back into paying for the bare basic of necessities (which it did!) It felt like we’d never be able to get ahead and that everyone else was able to spend money and here we were barely able to afford basic things like groceries and didn’t even have money to shop at the thrift store.

(Yes, it wasn’t true that “everyone else was able to spend money” but it often could feel like that with where we were in life and how we were making choices that were very different — such as to not go into debt — when Jesse was in law school.)

But I want to encourage you—don’t give up hope! Your very desire to get on a budget is a huge step in the right direction of wise financial decisions and your willingness to make sacrifices and do the very best you can do is going to pay off!

Here are some suggestions I have for where you are right now:

1. Focus on the Absolute Essentials First

When your paycheck is already stretched to the max, the key is to prioritize what must be paid. What are the absolute necessities that you must pay in order to survive?

These will usually be things like:

Housing (rent/mortgage)
Utilities (electricity, water, gas)
Food (basic inexpensive groceries, not dining out)
Transportation (gas, car payment, necessary repairs)

These essentials must come first. If you have limited income, make sure these are covered before anything else. Everything else is not as high of a priority for right now.

Tip: I recommend using our Budget Tracker to write down all of your fixed expenses. As you do so, think: “Can I live without this for at least a short-term if I absolutely had to?” If so, it’s not an absolute essential and not something I want you to prioritize first.

2. Get a Plan for Past-Due Bills

Since you’re behind on your rent, utilities, and other bills, your first step is to reach out to your providers and landlords. Many companies have hardship programs, payment plans, or options to delay or spread out payments.

Call them and explain your situation. It might feel intimidating, but most companies are more willing to work with you when you communicate than if you just miss payments. Be honest. Be upfront. Don’t promise something you aren’t absolutely sure you can deliver on.

3. Find Community Support and Resources

There is no shame in seeking help when you need it. If you are struggling with groceries or utility payments, check into local food pantries, community assistance programs, or non-profits that provide financial assistance for rent and utilities. Even churches often have programs to help those in difficult situations.

Additionally, if you have past-due utility bills, many states have Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Programs (LIHEAP) that may help cover some of your utility costs.

4. Create a Realistic Bare-Bones Budget

A budget doesn’t have to be fancy or complicated—it just has to work for your situation. Start with what you have, even if it’s just your paycheck going straight to your bills. Use our Budget Tracker to help you out.

List your total income for the month.
Write out your absolute essential expenses.
If you have any money left, allocate it toward catching up on overdue bills.

If you’re in a situation where your income still isn’t covering your essentials, it’s time to increase your income (more on that in a moment).

5. Increase Your Income—Even Temporarily

When you’re behind, sometimes cutting expenses just isn’t enough—you need to bring in more income to catch up. If possible, look into:

A part-time job, weekend gig, or side hustle. Consider delivery services, babysitting, tutoring, freelance work, or even seasonal jobs.
Selling items you no longer need. Check Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, or local consignment stores.
Using your skills to generate extra income. If you have a talent for writing, organizing, or crafting, look into quick-turnaround freelance gigs.

Even a few hundred dollars extra a month can make a huge difference in getting you out of survival mode and onto more stable ground.

Tip: Post on your social media or Facebook page and let friends and family know that you are looking for some jobs you can do to earn extra income and you welcome any ideas or suggestions or projects they have that they need help with! I’ve heard from multiple people that this simple action has opened up doors they never would have thought of — and even led to long-term work!

6. Avoid New Debt at All Costs

It might feel like putting bills on a credit card or taking out a payday loan could offer some relief, but in the long run, it will only make things worse. The goal is to free yourself from the cycle of debt—not add to it. If possible, avoid taking on new debt while you’re trying to get back on your feet. Remember: this is a short-term situation. Be willing to make some really radical short-term sacrifices for long-term benefits!

7. Give Yourself Grace and Keep Going

I know it feels overwhelming right now. But I also know that even the most challenging financial struggles can be overcome. Keep making small steps forward, and don’t let setbacks discourage you. Progress is progress, even if it’s microscopic. Pay attention to and celebrate every win! It’s a baby step closer to where you want to go!

Final Encouragement

You are not alone in this, and you are not failing—you are fighting. You are working hard to turn things around, and that matters. The fact that you’re asking for advice and seeking solutions tells me that you are determined to make this work.

Keep pushing forward, keep looking for ways to grow, and don’t lose sight of the fact that this tough season is just that—a season. You will get through this. And one day, you’ll be able to look back and see how strong you were, how much you learned, and how far you’ve come.

What advice and encouragement do you have for Rachael? Leave a comment and share any words of advice, inspiration, or encouragement you have. I know it would mean so much to her and to others who are in her shoes.

Photo credits: here and here