Every day this week, the Sun Sentinel will answer your questions. After that, we will publish tips every Wednesday in Your Money. To ask a question, fill in the box on the right or call 954-356-4628.

I lost my job and can't pay my credit card bill. What are the chances my credit card company will give me a break?

There's a risk in asking for one. In normal times, the best thing to do would be to call and ask for the "remediation department" to try to work out a plan. But these aren't normal times. Emily Peters of Credit.com says she's hearing that strategy is backfiring.

Companies are reducing customers' credit limits or even closing accounts because of a call from the customer about trouble.

Companies aren't lenient and, in many cases, due to the credit crisis, "They are much less capable of working with you," she said.

You can't keep your situation secret forever, but you might delay any negative consequences by staying mum.

To avoid trouble, try your best to at least make the minimum payment — or as much of it as you can.

— Harriet Johnson Brackey