How can I budget effectively with medical debt and long work hours?

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xanderpatramonkey

New Member
Tbh, this year's got some big goals for me. I'm a single mom with kids who are 21 & 16. No child support o r help from the state, so it's all on me. Already on day 6 of 10-hour shifts this week ‍ Got like 7k in medical debt and collections. Juggling fam time and work is tough, but i usually do 5 ten-hour weeks. Here's the budget notebook I use – nothing fancy, had it for 2 years.
 
I know it can be tough, but you've got this!

I'm 68 and I've been working 7 days a week, over 60 hours, for the last four years. Even though it's just e, I still find it a challenge to get all my personal tasks done.

Stay focused on your money goals. Being mindful and intentional with your finances now builds the skills you'll need to manage your money later.

Here are a couple of simple points that help me:
  • Keep your financial goals in sight.
  • Make mindful choices with your money today.
 
ANT said:
I know it can be tough, but you've got this!

I'm 68 and I've been working 7 days a week, over 60 hours, for the last four years. Even though it's just e, I still find it a challenge to get all my personal tasks done.

Stay focused on your money goals. Being mindful and intentional with your finances now builds the skills you'll need to manage your money later.

Here are a couple of simple points that help me:
  • Keep your financial goals in sight.
  • Make mindful choices with your money today.
Click to expand...
Good morning
How are you doing? ,I’m vivian Peterson from AZ and I’m a Business woman I’m helping people in need of help or a loan cuz my pastor preached to us on this week Sunday about helping the needy, and it really touched, so that’s why I’m here to help other for a little out of what I have, I’m texting you to see if you need some money to payoff bills or do some other things. Text me back on if you’re in need of help and I will be glad to help you out ...731-907-2510
 
xanderpatramonkey said:
Tbh, this year's got some big goals for me. I'm a single mom with kids who are 21 & 16. No child support o r help from the state, so it's all on me. Already on day 6 of 10-hour shifts this week ‍ Got like 7k in medical debt and collections. Juggling fam time and work is tough, but i usually do 5 ten-hour weeks. Here's the budget notebook I use – nothing fancy, had it for 2 years.
Click to expand...
Good morning
How are you doing? ,I’m vivian Peterson from AZ and I’m a Business woman I’m helping people in need of help or a loan cuz my pastor preached to us on this week Sunday about helping the needy, and it really touched, so that’s why I’m here to help other for a little out of what I have, I’m texting you to see if you need some money to payoff bills or do some other things. Text me back on if you’re in need of help and I will be glad to help you out ...731-907-2510
 
Hi there. First, I want to acknowledge how much you're juggling—single parenting, long shifts, and managing debt on your own is a huge challenge. The fact you have a budget notebook you've used for two years is a fantastic foundation; that consistency is key.

Let's build a plan that works with your long hours and targets that medical debt.

Start with a Needs-Only Budget.
Given your time and energy, simplify. In your notebook, list only your essential monthly costs: housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, and minimum payments on any other debts. This is your "must-pay" total. Compare it to your guaranteed income. Any money left over is your debt and flexibility fund.

Tackle the Medical Debt Strategically.
For the $7k in collections, don't just pay blindly. Contact the providers or collection agencies. Be direct: "I am on a limited income and want to settle this. What is the lowest one-time payment you can accept to close this account?" If a lump sum isn't possible, ask for a low monthly payment plan. Get any settlement agreement in writing before paying.

Use a "Weekly Money Date."
Pick one 20-minute block each week (maybe after the kids are in bed) to check your notebook and account balances. This prevents financial surprises and saves you from stressful, time-consuming catch-up sessions later. Your budget becomes a maintenance task, not a chore.

Direct Any Extra Income Straight to Debt.
When you work overtime or get a bonus, immediately allocate a portion to your medical debt settlement fund. This creates visible progress and makes those extra hours feel more purposeful.

You're already doing the hardest part by showing up. Now, let's make your system work smarter for you. Would you like help drafting a script for calling those collection agencies?
 
Use your notebook to track only essential spending. Call collectors to negotiate lower lump-sum settlements on medical debt—this can cut what you owe. Automate a small weekly transfer to a debt fund. Your consistency is your strength; focus available energy on strategic fixes, not daily tracking.
 
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