Posted on June 1, 2009 at 11:13 pm I just don't know which way to turn. I'm 3 months pregnant and have recently separated from my partner. I have credit card debts and I am working part-time at a bar. Sooner or later I am going to have to file for a leave--or is that even an option. Can somebody just point me the right way please. Thanks.

Posted on June 1, 2009 at 11:34 pm Hi.I wonder if I understand correctly--  that aside from having credit card debts, you are also concerned about how to get financial help during your pregnancy?As you haven't given details about your credit card debts, here are some tips on how to get financial help:1. Try to inquire at your local crisis pregnancy centers and women's aid charities to find out how they may be able to assist you. Many of them can help you with baby items. Consider applying for WIC (women, infants, children) too for food so you can also save some money during your pregnancy.2. There are state-sponsored medical insurance benefits for pregnant women, try to inquire at your local health center on how possible it is for them to cover your pregnancy medical costs.3. Try to speak with your local church too or your family members--or some friends too. Between them and social programs, you should get some relief, at least.

Posted on June 1, 2009 at 11:54 pm Since you said that you are working part-time, I do believe that what you are going to take is an unpaid leave of absence, and it depends on your employer whether or not you can have your job back once you've delivered the baby. I also think that in spite of it all you are lucky to be just 3 months pregnant because that would give you time to chip away at some of your credit card debts before the baby comes. If you could actually eliminate your debts before you have your baby then it would give you less to worry about. Find out how much your overall debt total is then maybe some of the folks in here can help you with that.

Posted on June 1, 2009 at 11:56 pm I'm sorry to hear abt this, intwilight. I have a few questions though: do you have any savings? I would suggest that you would start saving up on the items for your child. On a basic level, you'll need to take care of your child's needs, such as pre-natal care, formula, your monthly check-ups, etc. Baby clothes, old cribs, and the like can be obtained from well-meaning friends and relatives, so I guess that would not pose as a problem for you.Do you also have any assets? Try to liquidate those assets to add up on the baby fund.Finally, are all of those accounts personal accounts, or did you co-sign them with your former partner? He is equally liable on those debts as you are, in the event that he co-signed them with you. Ask for his help in taking care of these debts--you definitely cannot do this alone.