I think i am going to need a root canal but can't afford it, what is wrong?

Unsure: Hard to understand the question. If you need a root canal bu have to delay it, you risk the chance of progressing pain, infection, and eventual loss of the tooth. If you would like to know more about root canal therapy, check www.Aae.Org under the "patients" section.

It depends: As with all options for treating a particular problem, much of what ultimately is "cheaper" depends on the conditions involved. All things being equal, initially it is cheaper with root canal treatment if there are no complicating factors such as shape of the canals, accessory canals, cracks in the tooth, periodontal condition, integrity of remaining tooth structure and completeness of the seal.

Root Canal $$: I am not sure what you mean by "what is wrong?" at the end of your question. If you think you need to get a root canal you first need to see a dentist to confirm that. Secondly if you do need a root canal, the only other alternative is to extract the tooth if not doing rct. Then that opens up the need for replacement of the now missing tooth which will be more $$ than the rct.