Losing money to a scam can lead to other issues, such as struggling to pay your rent or other bills. If your financial stability has been put at risk, we’ve outlined some actions you can take.
- Assess your situation.
- Are you struggling to pay your bills?
- Are you getting turned down for credit?
- Do you need assistance with food and/or shelter?
- Get help from a trustworthy organization in your community.
- Call 2-1-1 or visit 211.org to find vetted resources in your community that can provide help (financial assistance, food pantries, job programs, rental and utility assistance, etc.).
- Screen charitable organizations and programs via BBB’s Wise Giving Alliance at Give.org, which provides reports and information on charities.
- Speak with your creditors to negotiate a payment plan if necessary.
Beware of scammers who promise to get your money back! Recovery scammers will often contact you after you’ve already lost money and make promises to retrieve your funds, but only if you pay an up-front fee first. Learn more about these scams.
If your financial situation is still not stable, we recommend the following steps:
- Talk to a non-judgmental and supportive person such as a friend, family member, clergy, mental health counselor, or support hotline. Sometimes, simply being heard and understood is the first step toward recovery. Our one-pager provides suggestions on how to choose the right person to speak with.
- Speak with your creditors to negotiate a payment plan, if necessary.
Beware of scammers who promise to get your money back! Recovery scammers will often contact you after you’ve already lost money and make promises to retrieve your funds, but only if you pay an up-front fee first. Learn more about these scams.
Recovering from having your financial stability impacted can be a longer journey than just receiving emergency assistance. The following resources can provide additional guidance:
- 2-1-1; or simply dial 2-1-1
- BBB’s Financial Wellness HQ
- Center for Victim and Survivor Services – The National Center for Victims of Crime
- Refund and Recovery Scams | Consumer Advice (FTC)
- Working With an Investment Professional (FINRA)
- BBB Tip: 10 things to help you create a budget – and stick to it!
- Find someone to manage your finances
- National Foundation for Credit Counseling
- Get Your Finances Back on Track in 6 Simple Steps (Money)
- Recovering from Investment Fraud (FINRA)
- 25 tips to improve your financial well-being (Consumer Financial Protection Bureau)
- Support Your Mental Health After a Financial Scam
- Empowerment After Financial Fraud
- Financial Fraud Victim Journey Map
- How to find help responding to elder abuse issues