Q: I’ve read almost all your columns but can’t find where you’ve addressed renters having trouble paying their monthly rent. None of the bailouts deal with home leases or rentals even though many of us also need a break. Any suggestions? — Tim Tenant

Q: Dear Tim: You’re right. Most of the news focuses upon the economic woes of homeowners, even though folks like you lose jobs or take a cut in salary just like the millions who fork over a monthly mortgage to (hopefully) hang on to their homes.

But we mustn’t forget that rental property owners are also business people. After so many homeowners lose their dwellings and go searching for more affordable housing, the promise of additional monthly income frankly appeals to landlords — sympathetic or not.

Don’t think I’m advising you to turn heel and run, though. Regardless of circumstances, I believe we must stand up for ourselves and try to find workable solutions. In fact, I’ve discovered over the years that communication — written and/or oral — is the fundamental tactic to help resolve thorny situations of any kind. Try the following negotiations:

— If you experience health problems, for example, or an unexpected worry occurs, don’t just ignore Linda Landlady. If she (or the management company) doesn’t know some idiot totaled your car and the amount you owe “Linda” barely covers three weeks of auto rental so you can get to your job each day, pick up the phone. Maybe your wife underwent emergency life-saving surgery and “Linda’s” payment needs to ensure a babysitter for your toddler twins.

Pick up the phone. Assuming you’ve been a good tenant, the landlord/lady/company may negotiate, at least allow you to pay late. (Just don’t expect deals like this to come along on a regular basis.)

— Bartering is a tool mentioned over and over. Let’s face it: this world often operates on a “you scratch my back, I’ll scratch yours” arrangement. Bartering is no different and why shouldn’t we use our talents to help ourselves if the need occur? (Of course, it’s nice to use those talents to help others for free.)

A few years ago, I offered my expertise as a proofreader/editor for newsletters and a Web site to a local appliance store. In return, I received a brand-new dishwasher. We both came out ahead in money and in time.

Think of ideas and talents you possess in exchange for a rental reduction or tardiness (before the fact, please). Abilities, such as typing at home, snow-shoveling, Web design, tutoring, even baby-sitting, among others, may afford you a financial break when you most need one.

Ellen Phillips is a retired English teacher who has written two consumer-oriented books. Her Consumer Watch column appears on Saturdays in the Business section of the paper. An expanded version is at www.timesfreepress.com under Local Business. E-mail her at consumerwatch@timesfreepress.com