Living in the New Bern area has given you the opportunity to secure a good paying job and afford a comfortable lifestyle. Unfortunately, you find yourself with some unexpected financial obligations that are beyond your means to pay. Though you do not have the cash you need to pay them, you might find yourself wondering if it is a good idea for you to use your credit cards to pay them.

The answer really depends on your complete financial picture. Many people find themselves in this type of situation periodically. It does not indicate a problem handling money. It just means you do not have the extra for that emergency situation or are probably overextended financially. Here are some reasons to consider before you use your credit cards to pay your debts.

How long do you expect the extra financial obligations to last?

If these unexpected expenses are a rare occurrence and you know you will have the money before the due date on your credit cards, it might not be a bad thing for you to use them. Before you do, review the terms and conditions so you know what to expect as far as interest charges. Keep in mind the higher the interest rate, the more you will have to pay back if you do not pay the complete balance.

Are there other funding options available?

If your credit cards have high interest rates, you might want to consider borrowing money from a friend or family member or taking out a lower interest loan from a credit union. Always review the agreements to avoid signing up for a financial obligation you might not be able to pay back.

If you are not sure when you will have the money to cover your unexpected expenses or are juggling around different bills each month to stay afloat, bankruptcy is an option to consider. To better understand your options so you can get your financial situation under control, you might want to speak with an attorney.