'Fear Makes You Hide, But Courage Makes You Act': Suze Orman's Financial Survival Guide For The Government Shutdown

Core Message - Personal finance expert Suze Orman emphasizes the importance of planning over panic during the government shutdown, encouraging affected individuals to take control of their finances rather than succumbing to fear [1]. Group 1: Essential Financial Management - Orman advises individuals to identify essential expenses, such as housing, food, utilities, and insurance, distinguishing them from non-essential wants [2]. - She recommends cutting discretionary spending, including streaming services and dining out, as a proactive financial measure even for those not directly impacted by the shutdown [2][3]. Group 2: Communication and Proactivity - Orman highlights the importance of communication before defaulting on payments, warning that silence can lead to missed payments and a damaged credit score [4]. - She encourages individuals to reach out to lenders and service providers proactively, asking for assistance with bills to maintain financial stability [5]. Group 3: Smart Borrowing Strategies - In cases where borrowing is necessary, Orman advises against high-interest payday loans, recommending the use of low-interest credit cards for essential expenses [6].