Interest rates are near all-time lows. So if you have a home equity line of credit, this is a much cheaper way to cover expenses than a credit card. If you don’t have a home equity line, apply for one right away. (You may not be able to obtain a home equity line of credit if your regular income is compromised.) Don’t use your credit card to finance living expenses, because they’re one of the most expensive ways to borrow money. You will be paying interest rates of 15 percent or more annually on every dollar you owe. And don’t take withdrawals from your retirement plan. Whether you have a 401(k), a 403(b), or an individual retirement account, you will face significant penalties if you take an early withdrawal. You will have to pay taxes on your withdrawal because it’s treated as income and a 10 percent early withdrawal penalty.
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