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Sometimes life events result in unexpected financial consequences. If, despite an unfortunate event, you maintain your ability to pay your bills, paying them will help prevent future credit problems. For debtors who simply do not have the resources to pay their bills, calls and letters from creditors may only add stress to a debtor's already stressful situation.

If you are unable to pay your bills, you may stop your creditors from further communicating with you by sending them a "Cease Communications" letter, such as the sample letter below. This prevents creditors from further communicating with you except to provide you with notification that attempts to collect the debt have ceased or that the creditor may seek other remedies.

It is a good idea to discuss your options with an attorney, so that you are able to make the best decision for your situation. Other options may include, but are not limited to, directing all creditor communications to your attorney, restructuring your debt or even working out a debt reduction settlement with the creditor.