Behind on a bill and don’t know where to start? You’re not the only one. This free one-page printable gives you a short script you can read to any company, a spot to write down what they agree to, and a checklist of free help in the U.S. Print it, take it to the kitchen table, and start with one call.
Download the free PDF (US Letter, 1 page)
What to say when you call
“Hi, my name is ____. My account number is ____. I can’t pay my full bill this month because ____. I don’t want to fall behind. I can pay $____ by ____. Do you have a payment plan, a hardship program or a later due date? Can you send me what we agree to in writing?”
Try to call before the due date. Write down the date, the name of the person you spoke to and exactly what they agreed to. Want a longer script? See The Hardship Call Script.
Free help in the U.S.
- 211 (United Way): dial 211 for local help with bills, rent, utilities and food. 211.org
- LIHEAP energy help: help with heating and cooling bills, including shutoffs. National Energy Assistance Referral (NEAR) hotline: 1-866-674-6327, weekdays 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern. LIHEAP never charges a fee. acf.gov/ocs/programs-services/liheap
- Lifeline: up to $9.25 a month off phone or internet service if you get SNAP, Medicaid or SSI, or if your income is at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines. lifelinesupport.org
- Your utility company: call the number on your bill and ask about payment arrangements or hardship programs.
- NFCC nonprofit credit counseling: talk through credit cards and other debts with a certified counselor. 800-388-2227. nfcc.org
- HUD-approved housing counselor: behind on rent or the mortgage? Find one near you. consumerfinance.gov/find-a-housing-counselor
- CFPB (Consumer Financial Protection Bureau): report a problem with a bank, lender or debt collector. (855) 411-2372. consumerfinance.gov/complaint
We checked these phone numbers and links against each official site in October 2026. Programs and rules can change, so check the site before you apply. Real help is free to ask about. Be careful with anyone who wants a fee up front or promises to make your debt disappear.
More free worksheets: Free Printables