How can I get help with everyday bills during cancer?

Cancer can make it hard to keep up with everyday bills, and there are practical ways to get help. The National Cancer Institute offers several suggestions.

If you are struggling with monthly bills such as rent, mortgage, or utilities, talk to your bank or the companies you owe. They may be able to set up a payment schedule to keep you from falling behind. The key is to reach out as soon as you think you could have problems, rather than waiting until payments are missed.

Free online tools can help you find benefits and programs you may qualify for — the National Council on Aging offers one such tool. Small steps like setting up automatic payments, and accepting help from friends and family with errands, meals, or childcare, can also ease the load. A hospital social worker can connect you with local resources, and the NCI Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER can offer referrals.