Increased pressure and ticking clocks, failures and mistakes, relationship friction, duty and responsibility

A natural disaster damaging the character's home 
A loved one's injury or sudden illness producing hefty medical fees
The death of a loved one generating travel expenses and other bereavement costs
Changes in travel plans producing fees and loss of deposits
Having to pay for a traffic ticket
Paying a fine for breaking a community bylaw
Having to hire a lawyer
Getting stuck with hidden fees 
A health hazard in the home requiring the character to relocate to a hotel
Having to hire a tutor for one's child
A car accident that totals the character's car, forcing them to buy a new one
The character's pet falling ill and needing extensive medical treatment
Having to financially support a friend or family member
Being sued and having to pay a settlement

Having to make budget cuts in other areas to accommodate unexpected expenses
Having to take on side jobs to make up the cost, sacrificing personal time
Feeling put upon (especially if several unexpected expenses hit in a row) 
The character feeling shame or embarrassment over their limited financial means
Trying to save money by fixing the problem oneself and only making it worse
Having to give up a treasured hobby or pastime to cut costs
Walking to work to save gas money
Having to explain to kids why they can't have that new item or go for ice cream
Avoiding socializing to avoid the associated costs (paying for drinks out, a babysitter, etc.)
Loved ones having to make financial sacrifices to make ends meet
Having to ask family members for a loan, causing embarrassment