My spouse left for Iraq a few weeks ago, and now I probably won't get unemployment benefits either
No wisecracks intended. I read every word, but the way you wrote it implied that your DH's deployment and not getting unemployment were connected.. there was no further explanation as to why you wouldn't get unemployment benefits.
If you don't have enough money coming in then it seems to me you have 3 options - 1) get a job or find a way to work at home and get paid 2) file bankruptcy and get out from under your bills and the collectors, or 3) do nothing, stop worrying about the monster credit card companies and take care of your family - then deal with the charge-offs, collections and rotten credit after you go back to work.
I told you that credit card companies may put you on a hardship plan for 6-12 months, but they won't even consider it until you're at LEAST 3-4 months behind. Unfortunately they won't work with you BEFORE it gets that bad, which is stupid beyond belief but I'm sure they're making way more money in late charges, sky-high interest rates and fee on delinquent accounts.
I also told you that if your husband is on any of these accounts you MAY have some recourse in the Soldiers and Sailors Civil Relief Act.
Then you have DG's suggestion of trying credit counseling, though you need to be EXTREMELY careful with them, it could work.
So, you got several suggestions.... if there's not enough money coming in it makes sense that you have find a way to GET more $$ and slash expenses to the bone. Your children aren't infants or toddlers, so I would think you have a few more options other than expensive daycare if they were.
If you want to contact me, you can always use the private message feature on this board.