What can I do if an unexpected bill comes before payday?

An unexpected bill can be stressful, especially when payday is still a few days away. Whether it is a car repair, household bill or another essential expense, there are several options you can consider before deciding how to cover the cost, including whether payday loans could be suitable for your circumstances. The most important thing is to understand what you can afford and avoid taking on borrowing that you may struggle to repay.

Check your budget first

Before looking at borrowing, check how much money you have available and when your next payday is. Look at your essential spending, including rent or mortgage payments, energy bills, food and travel. This can help you understand whether you can cover the unexpected cost without borrowing. You may also find that you can free up some money by delaying non-essential spending until you are paid.

Speak to the company you owe

If the unexpected bill is for an existing account, contact the company before the payment is due. They may be able to offer a payment plan, change your payment date or give you more time to pay. MoneyHelper recommends contacting creditors early if you are worried about missing a payment, as they may be able to offer support.

It is also worth checking whether the bill is a priority payment. Rent, mortgage payments, Council Tax and energy bills can have more serious consequences if they are not paid, which could lead to further issues.

Could you use savings or an overdraft?

If you have savings available, using some of them may be an alternative to borrowing. However, make sure you keep enough money for your other essential costs as well.

What about payday loans?

Payday loans are designed for short-term borrowing and can be a suitable option for someone who needs to cover an unexpected cost before their next payday. For some people, payday loans can provide a convenient way to manage an essential expense when there is a temporary gap between receiving a bill and getting paid.

At LoanPig, we understand that everyone’s financial circumstances are different. We review each individual application carefully before making a lending decision, helping us assess whether the loan is affordable and suitable for the customer. We do not want to lend to someone who may struggle or could be put into further financial difficulty.

It is important to make sure you can comfortably afford the repayments and understand the process.

How much are people borrowing?

Borrowing is a common part of household finances in the UK. According to Trading Economics, net borrowing of consumer credit by individuals rose to £2.1 billion in November 2025, up from £1.7 billion in October and above market expectations of £1.1 billion. Net borrowing through other forms of consumer credit, including loans, increased slightly to £1.1 billion.

Think carefully before borrowing