I barely have the energy to deal with my arthritis, let alone my finances. Who can help me?

There may be times when the last thing you want to think about is money. Yet finances are important -- especially when you have a chronic illness. You don't have to do everything yourself. A financial advisor, financial planner, accountant or lawyer can provide professional help. A trusted friend or family member can also assist you. This person might open and prioritize bills, write checks, read bank statements and talk to insurance representatives. However, don't turn over all the responsibility for your finances to someone else. You need to stay in charge of your money, just as you need to stay in charge of your health. 

I'm the one who has always handled the family's finances. Now what?

Try to start including others in decisions about money. Show your spouse or partner and, perhaps, another trusted family member where you keep financial records and explain your financial situation to them. Include them in meetings with your financial and legal advisors, and involve them in the financial decisions you make in the future. This shared decision-making will lessen your burden so you can focus on your health. And, by accepting their help, you show others you trust them, and you are willing to let them take an active part in helping you manage your arthritis. If your helpers can become familiar with your finances now, it will better prepare them to help you in the future.

©2001. National Endowment for Financial Education. All rights reserved.

Note: Certain content areas in this material are current as of the publishing, but legislative and regulatory changes as well as new developments may date this material over time. This content is meant to provide general financial information; it is not meant to be a substitute for or to supersede specific professional or legal advice.