In today’s economy there are more consumers than ever with aggressive amounts of credit card debt. The help is out there to eliminate this debt if you know where to look, but it takes some savvy research.
1. The first thing is to do is take your credit cards and put them away in a safe location. Do not use them any more. They are easy to use, but all the hidden costs can cause you to end up paying twice as much.
2. Do not cancel any credit cards with existing amounts until they are paid off. Many people think this is good way to stop debt on cards without realizing they still accumulating interest on any unpaid amount. Add to this the fact that any credit reports will show this as an unpaid card that may have been cancelled by the provider. This will go against your credit. You are left with a cancelled card that must be paid off while hurting your credit.
3. Ask for lower interest rates. As they say, “It can’t hurt to ask.” Many companies are in a position where they just want some kind of payment and lower rates may achieve a goal for both of you.
4. Find out what your total debt is from all credit cards and then try to do a credit card debt consolidation. If the amount is small then you can call creditors yourself and make arrangements. Although they may be terse at first, they would rather reach a settlement then receive no payment at all.
5. Estimate any additional income you have above and beyond regular bills and make sure it goes towards payment of your credit card debt consolidation. This shows that you are anxious and willing to comply.
6. Pay off any high interest credit cards first. These are the ones causing the real trouble and need to be eliminated as quick as possible.
7. Eliminate any extra expenditures. This may be tough to get used to, but you’ll be surprised at the money you save to pay down any credit card debt. Live below your means. This may sound too simple, but it’s the truth.
8. Look for extra ways to make money. With the internet, for example, there are now numerous online sites that will provide extra income. Avoid any sites that cost money to join. There are dozens of sites that provide free help. It won’t make you rich, but it will help make some non-aggressive funds that may help.
9. Do not borrow any more money whether it’s a personal loan or bank related. This may be the reason you are in trouble in the first place. You want to get out of debt without creating more.
10. Check your credit. There are three credit reporting agencies, Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. Check with these companies throughout the process. Mistakes are continually made by creditors and unfortunately must be patrolled by you to make sure your credit is absolutely correct.