It may have been that debt that ended up on the books, but what do your monthly expenditures look like in terms of vehicles, eating out, entertainment, etc? If you have cash on hand to pay those expenses you have cash to pay your debit. This may not be your personal case but I have seen this a lot.
Sorry for delayed response. I had to reread your comment to understand.
My burn rate is very low.
When I'm not working, it's because I'm sick, meaning no income. I'm too stubborn or principled or stupid to take unemployment (unless I'm actually looking for work). And I'm not sick enough for disability.
During those times I chew down my savings. This last round, I dipped into my 401k. (I had 6 months savings, expected to be out of work for 2 months, stretched to 10, had some major expenses come up.)
Then I get somewhat healthy, pay off my new medical bills, save what I can. Until next time.
