Budgeting tips when income drops, software tester here

My income is now a fraction of what it was as a software tester and I am trying to cover the essentials. I have read a lot of threads here and could not find my exact situation. The rent is fixed and the car payment is high. Did lenders work with you?

Sell things you do not use. I made about $800 from a weekend of listing.

Check for energy assistance programmes. I got a credit that covered two bills.