Financial Help Resources

Money stress is common for people living with bipolar disorder. Mood changes can make budgeting, paying bills, or keeping track of spending feel impossible.
This page gives you only the basics — a few simple tools you can use right now. Please note: The Joey Gullo Fund Inc. does not endorse any specific products- these are simply resources that are readily available, which may help you navigate a difficult situation.

Remember, You don’t have to do everything at once. You only need one small step today.

1. Simple Budgeting Tools

YNAB (You Need a Budget)

If you want one tool to help you stay organized, start here.

  • Helps you see your money clearly

  • Easy to use during stable or stressful times

  • Works on your phone

Website: ynab.com

Goodbudget

If you like visuals or “envelope” budgeting:

  • Shows how much you have left to spend

  • Helps prevent impulse purchases

Website: goodbudget.com

2. Tools to Help Prevent Overspending

True Link Card

A debit card that includes safety features.

  • You carry the card

  • A trusted person can block risky spending

  • Limits can be set for you

Website: truelinkfinancial.com

Bank Spending Alerts

Your bank app can help you stay in control.

Useful features:

  • Alerts when you spend money

  • Notifications for large purchases

  • Ability to turn your card off temporarily

This takes only a few minutes to set up.

3. Help With Medical Bills

Dollar For

Helps people get hospital financial assistance.

  • Free

  • They check if you qualify

  • They submit paperwork for you

Website: dollarfor.org

RIP Medical Debt

A nonprofit that forgives medical debt.

  • No application needed

  • You can join their waitlist

Website: ripmedicaldebt.org

4. Credit and Debt Support

NFCC (National Foundation for Credit Counseling)

A trusted place for simple, low‑cost help.

  • Free or low‑cost counseling

  • Help creating a payment plan

  • Support for medical, credit card, or collections debt

Website: nfcc.org

Self Credit Builder

A small monthly payment plan that builds credit and savings.

Website: self.inc

5. Mental‑Health Friendly Budgeting Help

SAMHSA Financial Workbook

A gentle, step‑by‑step guide made specifically for people with mental health challenges.

  • Simple worksheets

  • Helps you track bills

  • Helps you set small, realistic goals

Download: Add your link

Small Steps You Can Try Today

Choose one — just one:

  • Turn on bank alerts

  • Freeze a credit card temporarily

  • Make a “wait 24 hours before you buy” rule

  • Put spending money on a prepaid card

  • Ask someone you trust to help with decisions

  • Check if your hospital offers charity care

Small steps build stability over time.