The WGA strike may be long.So, if you are walking the picket lines, and your strike funds aren't quite cutting it, here are some tips to help survive the dry spell:

1. The very first thing to do is create a monthly budget. Know exactly where your money is going; i.e., don't just list, "$2,000 to VISA."List out your VISA expenditures including your daily trip to Starbucks for a MOCHA- raspberry-triple-pump with whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles.
   
   
2. After you have your budget, cut out everything that is unnecessary. (You can do without your pedicure for a while-wear closed-toe shoes.) Cut it to the bone. In this way, you will be planning for the worse case scenario.
   
   
3. Try to always eat at home, or bring a lunch. Try not to eat out anywhere. I have found that dining out/entertainment is one of the biggest stealth expenses in those suffering from cash flow problems; Even a $3.69 Subway sandwich can be cut.You'd be surprise what kind of a meal you can cook for $3.69. (Recipes are available on request.)
   
   
4. If you have a credit card balance, look in the mail for a 0% balance transfer promotions. It will save you enormous interest payments on your credit card debt for an extended time. DO NOT cancel your current credit cards; just put them in a safe place. (Closing credit cards will temporarily ding your credit rating.)
   
   
5. Do not use your credit cards at all if possible. Paying by cash will help you monitor the cash that is reducing your net worth.
   
   
6. If you think you will be late on your rent, tell your landlord and make arrangements. Maybe you can pay a partial payment this month, and the balance when the strike is over.
   
   
7. If you have a mortgage payment that is going to be late, call your bank immediately. Don't wait for late notices and foreclosure notices. They will work with you. It is very costly for them to initiate foreclosure procedures. If you have a mortgage that allows you an option to pay interest only, then you may want to do that until the strike is over.
   
   
8. Wait as long as you can to pay your bills without being late. For example, most auto insurance premiums can be broken into multiple payments.
   
   
9. Take public transportation to the strike site if it's not too far. It will save you gas, parking, and maybe a parking ticket.
   
   
10. If you have a personal service corporation that is scheduled to pay a bonus to you by the end of the year, consult your business manager about reducing your withholding. It will increase your net paycheck instead of overpaying taxes to the IRS. Also, make sure you are reimbursed by the corporation for all business expenses that you incurred personally.
    
    
11. If your spouse works, consult your tax professional about reducing his/her tax withholding.
    
    
12. As a last resort, look at your retirement accounts (IRA, etc.) and consult your tax professional about whether you can qualify for one of the exceptions of a premature withdrawal penalty. (Normally, withdrawing before age 59½ subjects you to income tax and 10% penalty).
    
    

My wife grew up in a union home.What she remembers is that during strike times, the family ate pancakes; lots of pancakes.Her family accepted the fact that strikes are a fact of life for a union member.

We hope these tips help reduce your stress and make this strike less taxing.We are here to help.