Consumer stress has intensified, with an escalating share of credit card holders making only minimum payments on their bills, according to a Philadelphia Federal Reserve report.

If you're struggling to keep up with mortgage payments amid the natural disaster, you may be able to access mortgage forbearance. Bank of America, Citi, Chase, U.S. Bank and Wells Fargo have committed to providing 90-day forbearances and possibly other aid, according to a Jan. 18 news release from California Gov. Gavin Newsom.

Debit cards let you pay for things with money in your bank account, while credit cards pay with a line of credit. A debit card can be handy for preventing overspending and interest charges, as well as for withdrawing cash. A credit card can help you build your credit history, earn rewards and get better fraud protection.

Pensioners who lost winter fuel money after government changes tell the BBC the last few months have been a struggle.

Credit cards are a great tool to finance purchases if you are disciplined in your spending, and they are much safer to use online.

One of the most striking trends from the third-quarter data is the rise in the share of active credit card holders making only minimum payments. This figure has surged to 10.75%, the highest level recorded since tracking began in 2012.