Money
If you have to give up work, or your partner has given up work to be your carer, then there will probably be a drop in income. The best things in life may be free, but if you have always had enough money coming in, living with less is hard. There are a number of ways, from discovering which benefits you can claim to budgeting and financial planning, that can help you adjust to this change in circumstances.
Initially it will become more important to be able to get the most out of your income and be aware of what you spend. You will probably have to sacrifice impulse buying for money management. Working out a monthly budget can help you to manage your expenditure and plan your outgoings so that you can still do the things you enjoy such as going out, holidays and shopping for life's little luxuries.
If you are a homeowner, many lending companies now have provisions in place for payment breaks and insurance that can take over the mortgage for a period of time if you find yourself unable to work due to ill health.
Benefits
The MS Society's publication 'Is There Anything I Can Claim?' gives details of the benefits that you may be entitled to. There are also advisers on the MS Society's Helpline to provide more detailed guidance.
Click here for more information about benefits on the main MS Society website.
Borrowing Money
Unfortunately it can be very difficult for people with MS to borrow money as banks and other financial institutions are reluctant to lend money to people that have long term chronic medical conditions.
If you do find someone that is willing to lend you money, it is very important to seek independent legal advice before you sign up. Somewhere like www.unbiased.co.uk which is regulated, is a good place to look for an advisor. Always trust your instincts, if an offer seems to be too good to be true then it probably is.
MS Society Grants
The MS Society Grants team can provide advice on applying for financial assistance or funding.
Visit the grants section on the main MS Society website.