Credit Card Hardship Script After a Layoff

Opening (to whoever answers):
"Hi, my name is [name], calling about the account ending in [last 4 digits]. My job was eliminated in a layoff on [date] and my income has dropped. I'd like to speak to the department that handles hardship or financial-assistance programs, please."

If they ask what you need:
"I'd like to know what hardship options are available on this account — for example a reduced interest rate, a lower minimum payment, or a fixed repayment plan — so I can keep the account in good standing while I'm between jobs."

Once you reach the hardship department:
"Thank you. To give you the picture: I was laid off on [date]. I've filed for unemployment and expect [unemployment / severance / a new role] from around [date]. Right now I can pay about $[amount] a month on this account. What programs could fit that?"

Then ask, one at a time:
1. "Would the account be closed or frozen while I'm on the plan?"
2. "What would the interest rate be, and for how long?"
3. "What would the minimum payment be?"
4. "Would late and over-limit fees be waived?"
5. "How would this be reported to the credit bureaus?"
6. "Could I leave the plan early without a penalty if my income comes back?"
7. "Could you send me the full terms in writing before I decide?"

Closing (do not agree on the call unless you already have the terms in writing):
"Thank you — that's helpful. Please send the terms to [email] and I'll confirm once I've read them. Can I have your name and a reference number for this call?"

Subject: Hardship program request — account ending [last 4 digits]

Hello,

I am writing about my account ending in [last 4 digits]. My employment with [employer] was terminated in a layoff on [date], and my income has dropped until approximately [date], when I expect [unemployment benefits / severance / a new role] to begin.

I want to keep this account in good standing and would like to enroll in any hardship or financial-assistance program available. I can currently pay approximately $[amount] per month.

Before enrolling, please confirm in writing:
1. Whether the account would be closed or frozen during the program.
2. The interest rate during the program and its duration.
3. The minimum payment during the program.
4. Whether late and over-limit fees are waived.
5. How the program is reported to the credit bureaus.
6. Whether I can exit early without penalty if my income returns.

[If after a call: I spoke with [representative name] on [date], reference [number], who quoted [terms]. Please confirm those terms.]

Thank you,
[Your name]
[Phone] · [Email]