Pay Off Debt - Debt Management Tips
Paying off debt is a great feeling, plus you save thousands in
future interest payments. Your credit score improves with
reduced debt levels, qualifying you for lower rates on future
credit. Plus, you have more financial freedom to pursue your
dreams, not weighed down by bills. To help you reach your debt
elimination goal, follow these tips.
Analyze Your Bills And Expenses
Taking a look at your bills and living expenses to help you
understand where you are losing the most money. Find out your
account balances and interest rates. Also tally up your living
expenses.
Next, write out a budget for yourself. Decide how much you need
to live on. The rest can be split between debt elimination and
savings. While paying off debt is your ultimate goal, building
up your savings will help you avoid using additional credit for
future financial emergencies.
Lower Your Interest Rates
To speed up your debt elimination plan, trade in your high
interest accounts for a lower interest plan. This could mean
opening a low rate credit card or consolidating your debt with a
home equity loan.
Before you open a new credit line, check out rates and fees.
Closing costs of second mortgages can make lines of credit and
credit cards look more favorable. Finally, compare plans with
several lenders before settling on one. This is were you can
find real savings in rates and fees.
Get Some Help
If you find it difficult to manage your debt, turn to a third
party. Debt management companies handle your monthly payments
while lowering your interest rates. In most cases, they can get
you out of credit card debt in less than five years.
For more serious debt problems, you can turn to a debt
negotiation company. They can eliminate part of your debt with
some creditors, making your monthly payments more manageable.
Just know that there are tax and credit implications.
Before signing up with any company, do your research. Avoid
companies that make claims that sound too good to be true - such
as instant debt elimination. The best companies partner with you
to rebuild your credit and help you manage your debt.