The full brunt of the credit crisis is hitting home and more people are concerned and scared about thier financial future.  As well they should be.  If you are burdened with a big debt load heading in to a slowing economy you should be nervous.  Your chances of making it ok will go down dramatically as compared to someone that is not carrying any credit card balances.  If you have debt now, you should be focused on trying to get rid of it rather than taking on new debt or just making minimum payments.

Cut Up Your Credit Cards And Start Using Cash

Just get rid of those credit cards and just use cash.  If you like plastic then use your debt card.  Many Americans are just getting rid of credit cards altogether.  They are now seeing that using credit will not give you a great future.  I think we will see more Americans begin to return to a cash society.  Credit cards are convenient but it is more like short term pleasure and long term pain.

Cut Down On Your Expenses

You wont die if you do not go out to dinner or have a new pair of shoes each month.  You need to find out what is really important and life.  I promise you that it is not about buying more stuff.  Living a simple life can be more fulfilling than a house full of junk.  The government wont be bailing you out so you better figure out how you are going to take care of your debt.

What If You Can’t Pay Your Bills Anymore?

If you cannot pay your bills anymore you do have options.  You may want to consider a consumer credit counseling program or a debt settlement program.  If you are really having a financial hardship you may want to talk to a bankruptcy attorney.