Not being able to make the minimum payments on your monthly bills is a scary feeling but unfortunately, delinquency is a common phenomenon that has serious repercussions. If your credit card bill’s due date passes and you don’t make a payment, it’s natural to feel a little panicky. However, there are steps you can take to cope with the situation — emotionally and financially.

Part of rebuilding your credit is proving that you can pay your bills on time. If your bad credit episode left you without any credit cards, you’ll have to open new ones.