This guide helps with
- Take the pressure off after a sudden loss of income
- Understand the options available while you look for work
- Know how to let Merion know and ask for support
- Learn what income and benefits you might explore
- Find free help to manage money during the gap
5 min read
You're not alone
Losing a job can turn everything upside down, and money you were comfortably managing can suddenly feel impossible. If that has happened to you, please be kind to yourself — this is exactly the kind of situation hardship support exists for. You are not the first person to face this, and you will not be judged for it.
The most helpful thing you can do is let us know early. A quick message means we can adjust things rather than expecting payments you cannot make.
What you can do
While you are between jobs, there are several ways to ease the pressure on your account.
- Ask to pause payments for a period while you look for work.
- Ask to lower payments to a small amount you can manage in the meantime.
- Ask for more time before payments need to restart.
- Check whether you are eligible for any government support to bridge the gap.
Step by step
- Have your account or reference number ready.
- Decide whether a pause, a lower payment, or more time suits you best for now.
- Contact us through the contact form or reply to your letter, and let us know you have lost your job.
- Tell us what you need while you get back on your feet.
- Keep a copy of the arrangement and note any restart date.
Free support available
A free financial counsellor can help you map out your money during this gap and talk to us on your behalf. Call the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007 — free, confidential and independent. If the stress of it all is getting heavy, Lifeline on 13 11 14 and Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 are available any time.
Good to know
- Losing your job is exactly what hardship support is there for.
- You can ask for a pause, lower payments, or more time while you look for work.
- Letting us know early means we can adjust rather than expect the impossible.
- Free help to manage the gap is available on 1800 007 007.
FAQ
I have no income at all right now — what can I do?
Tell us, and we can look at pausing payments while you get back on your feet. A financial counsellor on 1800 007 007 can also help you check what support you may be entitled to.
Do I need to send proof I lost my job?
A short, honest explanation is usually enough to get started. If anything more is needed, we will let you know and keep it simple.
How long can payments stay paused while I'm out of work?
We will agree a fair period with you and review it as needed. The aim is to give you genuine breathing room, not to add pressure.
Still stuck? Our team is happy to help you sort it out.