When money gets tight, making your credit card payments can feel overwhelming. If you're struggling to keep up with your bills, requesting a credit card forbearance may give you some temporary relief. But before you make the call, it helps to understand how forbearance works, what to expect, and whether it’s the right move for you. This guide walks you through how to ask for that relief so you don’t fall further behind.
Let’s break it down.
What is Credit Card Forbearance?
A credit card forbearance is when your credit card issuer agrees to temporarily reduce or pause your monthly payments due to financial hardship. Unlike debt forgiveness, you’ll still owe the full balance, but it gives you breathing room to get back on track.
Many credit card companies offer hardship programs that include forbearance, especially
in situations like these:
Job loss or reduced income.
Medical emergencies.
Natural disasters.
Economic downturns.
That said, forbearance isn’t automatic. You’ll need to request it from your credit card company.
Pros & Cons of Credit Card Forbearance
Pros:
Temporary relief. Gives you time to recover financially.
Avoid late fees. Some issuers waive fees while in forbearance.
Prevent default. Keeps your account in good standing while you catch up.
May protect your credit score. If reported correctly, it can prevent negative marks.
Cons:
Interest still accrues. You may owe more in the long run.
Short-term solution. It doesn’t eliminate debt, just delays it.
Possible impact on credit. Some lenders may report forbearance status.
Not all issuers offer it. Policies vary by credit card company.
Forbearance is best used as a last resort if you genuinely need the help.
How to Request Credit Card Forbearance (Step by Step Guide)
Step 1: Prepare Your Information
Before calling, gather:
Your account number.
Your current balance and due date.
Details of your financial hardship (job loss, medical emergency, etc.).
A payment plan proposal (e.g., interest freeze, reduced payments).
One tip: Be ready to explain your situation and give a rough timeline for when you expect to recover.
Step 2: Call Your Credit Card Issuer
Most major banks have a hardship assistance or customer support line you can call. If you don’t see one, call the number on the back of your card.
Example Call Script:
“Hi, my name is [Your Name], and I have a credit card account with you. I’m experiencing financial hardship due to [reason, e.g., job loss] and I’m struggling to make my payments. I’d like to explore options for a temporary forbearance or hardship program. Can you tell me what relief programs are available?”
Be polite but persistent. If the first representative says no, ask to speak with a supervisor.
Step 3: Ask the Right Questions
Not all forbearance programs are the same. Ask:
How long is the forbearance period?
Will interest continue to accrue?
Will this impact my credit score?
Are there fees or penalties for enrolling?
What happens after the forbearance ends?
Take detailed notes on everything they tell you.
Step 4: Get Everything in Writing
Once the issuer agrees to forbearance, request written confirmation via email or mail. This protects you in case of any misunderstandings.
Sample Follow-Up Email:
Subject: Confirmation of Credit Card Forbearance Agreement
Dear [Customer Service Rep’s Name],
Thank you for assisting me today. I appreciate your support in setting up a forbearance for my credit card account ending in XXXX. As discussed, my payments will be [paused/reduced] for [timeframe], with [interest waived/interest accruing].
Please confirm these terms in writing at your earliest convenience.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Step 5: Plan for Life After Forbearance
Forbearance is a temporary fix, so it’s important to prepare for when payments resume.
Update your budget to prepare for normal payments.
Consider a side hustle or other income streams.
Look into debt repayment strategies like the Debt Snowball or Debt Avalanche method.
One more tip: If your situation doesn’t improve, look into negotiating a lower interest rate or a debt management plan before forbearance ends.
Final Thoughts
Credit card forbearance can be a real help when you're facing hardship, but it’s not a long-term fix. Use the time to steady yourself and put together a plan so you don’t fall behind again.
If you’re struggling with debt and want a clear action plan, it’s worth talking with a financial coach who can help you regain control and get back on solid ground.