Reader Contributions
These stories were contributed by our readers. Enjoy, but remember to maintain a healthy skepticism!
Credit Card Debt Consolidation: A Knowhow |
By Jack Reed on July 20, 2010
.jpg.aspx) Using a credit card can be beneficial for you in many ways but at the same time it can be the root cause of all your debt problems. Swiping your card is easy and the feeling that you are not using actual cash lures you to spend beyond your means. This ultimately lands you knee deep in debt when you can’t repay your balances in full. Many Americans are even declaring themselves bankrupt because of their huge credit card debt. If you are someone who is struggling to repay huge debts, then read on to know how credit card debt consolidation can help you to get out of debt.
Three methods of consolidating your credit card debt
You can opt for any of the following three ways to consolidate your credit card debt:
- Home equity loan: Consider taking out a low interest home equity loan or line of credit to pay off all your credit card debt. Do not worry about the new payment that you now need to clear because in all likelihood it would be much easier to keep up with.
- Consolidation program: This is a debt reduction program where the consolidation company negotiates with your creditors to reduce the interest rate on your balances. This makes it easier for you to pay off your debts. It is simply the process of combining your multiple debts into a single affordable monthly payment at a lower interest.
- Approach the bank: You can take out a low interest personal loan from the bank to pay off your credit card debt. This should not be a problem for you if you have a good credit history. However, it’s not advisable to saddle yourself with another loan if your credit history is poor.
Three tips on credit card debt consolidation
Keep the following three tips in mind if you are going to enroll yourself for any credit card debt consolidation program:
Keep a check on your expenditure: The root cause of all financial problems is not having a budget. When you spend within your means, you keep yourself away from the shackles of debt. What’s more, this even helps you to avoid a default while you are in a credit card debt consolidation program.
Avoid using credit card: While you are in a consolidation program, you should take care not to use your credit card any more. You do not need to close your accounts but make sure that you are not using your card for the time being.
Build up an emergency fund: Emergency can arise anytime. This is the time when your emergency fund can bail you out. Keep aside a part of your income every month to fill up your emergency fund.
It is important to weigh down the positive and the negative factors when deciding whether to consolidate your credit card debt. Only after gathering all the information, take the right step ahead. |