The COVID-19 pandemic has brought its share of challenges and concerns for Albertans. With physical distancing measures in place for the sake of our collective health, many businesses have temporarily closed, and many Albertans are experiencing job layoffs, less income or fewer hours.

If you’re one of the many Albertans navigating a job loss due to the coronavirus, we’re here to help. Here are five things you can do to help you manage your money and financial situation through this current crisis.

1.  Review government benefit or relief programs available

The federal and provincial governments have increased certain benefits programs, while also introducing new benefits in response to COVID-19. You’ve likely heard of them mentioned in the media or through loved ones, but if you’ve lost your employment or have a decreased income, it’s important to review each program to understand what you qualify for, where additional income may be available and what you need to do to apply for it.

If you’ve stopped working due to COVID-19, there may be federal government programs available to help, including the Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB).

Our resource pages offer comprehensive lists of all of the federal and provincial government benefits, programs and subsidies implemented for individuals and businesses as a response to the coronavirus.

2.  Understand your monthly expenses/income

Once you understand what programs or benefits are available to you and how they might affect your cash flow, it’s time to be proactive with managing your money with limited income.

We know it might feel like your world has been turned upside down and even though it can be uncomfortable and daunting, thinking about how to manage your monthly budget and finances is critical at this time.

You need to gain a clear understanding of how much money is coming in, how much money is going out, and how much money you have in savings. This will help you chart your course.

Use this Budget Worksheet to identify your income as well as listing all of your fixed and variable expenses. You might want to look at your most recent bank account or credit card statement to see how you’re spending your money, as well as identifying any recurring payments, like subscription services.

3.  Understand “needs” from “wants” to reduce your expenses

You may have some variable expenses that you can reduce or take away during this time. This could include luxury items, subscriptions you no longer need, dining expenses or online shopping. These are different from necessary fixed or variable expenses, such as groceries, medications or veterinary bills.

We know this is hard to do, but taking away some of your “wants” in the short-term will help give you a better cash flow position during these unsettling times.

Also keep in mind that some of your fixed or variable expenses may be lower if you’re not working. For example, you might be fueling your car less often, or spending less on clothing if you’re not going to the office or a job site each day. If you’re isolating at home, you might be spending less on dining as you’re likely cooking for yourself. Consider these savings as you create your new budget.

4.  Always keep your budget handy and updated

Once you have your budget in place, save a version of it on your personal device. If you gain access to additional funds or your cash flow changes, you can easily update your budget and adjust it as needed.

Having your budget handy will also ensure you’re keeping it in check so that you’re able to get through these tough times. If one expense is unexpectedly higher for the month, you can easily go back to your budget to see if you can cut a different expense.

You can also use budgeting apps like ATB TrackIt. Advantages of a budgeting app are that it allows you to track in real-time and makes it easier to keep track of spending on credit cards.

5.  Save, if you can

This may not be a reality for everyone during these times, but if you can, save.

If you have an emergency fund, you may be dipping into it to get through the next few months and that emergency fund will need to be replenished. Even a small amount every month will help build the fund back up again.

As always, ATB is here to help. To talk with us, please call 1-800-332-8383 or email us directly. In the meantime, stay home, wash your hands, practice physical distancing, and take good care of yourself and your loved ones.