

The question of the day is? “How am I going to get out of debt?” I am barely able to maintain my monthly mortgage and car payments along my other monthly obligations.
People are faced with every increasing pressure to get out of debt and is now more willing to consider a debt settlement program. The average consumer wants to pay off their credit card obligations, but the lenders are not willing to work with the consumer.
Therefore, the consumer is let with no choice but to consider either bankruptcy or a debt settlement program. Yes, there are other options available, a home equity loan or a debt consolidation loan from a lender. However, because of consumer’s financial situation these options are usually not available to them.
The debt settlement program is a better option than bankruptcy for most consumers. If a consumer is considering bankruptcy they should consult an attorney before taking this step. Whereas a debt settlement program will allow a third party to negotiate on behalf of the consumer for a settlement of up to 50 percent off their current outstanding balances.
This is not a quick fix or easy step for the consumer. This program can take been 12 to 48 months depending on the consumer’s obligations. Basically, the program requires the consumer to place a set dollar amount aside each month into a “trust/escrow” account. Once there is at least half of your lowest credit card balance, then the debt settlement expert will start to negotiate with your lender. The key to this program is that the lenders are more likely to accept some monies from the consumer than receiving nothing from the consumer if they file bankruptcy. Under bankruptcy, normally the secured lenders receive their monies first and in most cases the unsecured lenders receive up to little or nothing. By receiving nothing, the lenders have to write this off as a loss or bad debt on their financial statements.
So call today and learn more about Debt Settlement.
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Posted in Consumer Information
So what is the debt settlement option? Debt settlement is a method by which a third party negotiations on behalf of the consumer with their lenders to reduce their outstanding balances. Typically, this program works only for unsecured credit cards but may include any other types of unsecured debt like medical bills.
Today’s consumer is asking themselves, “How am I going to get out of debt?” The answer to that question is to consider a debt settlement program as a method to resolve their current financial situation. Consumers have not faced this type of financial climate since the Great Depression and in that situation; they were not overburden by unsecured credit card debt. Consumers are riding a roller coaster of emotions because of their financial situation. This along with the fact they are facing financial hardships because of a lost of job, reduced salary, divorce, death or medical emergency.
The consumer needs to select an experienced debt settlement company. This company should be able to provide answers to all the consumer’s questions in a way that the consumer clearly understands how the program works. The consumer should ask for the following:
- Upfront copy of all documents along with fee and cost schedules
- A company profile
- List of accreditations or afflictions, i.e., Better Business Bureau and associations
With any program, there are pros and cons when considering a course of action. It is the consumers responsible to ask questions and do their research on the debt settlement company they select.
The con’s are:
· Tax ramifications – consumer will need to report any amount of forgiven debt that exceeds $600. This means an increase to your tax bill.
· Credit score will drop
Some of the pro’s are:
- One single monthly payment
- Avoiding bankruptcy as an option. Always consult with an attorney about this step.
- Stopping collection calls
- Possible elimination of lawsuits and other legal action
- Stop any extra charges to the credit card
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Posted in Debt Coaching Corner
The majority of consumers want to payoff their obligation either monthly or in full. However they are having a hard time of making ends meet in today economic climate. The consumer is on an emotional roller coaster and is seeking ways to make ends meet.
Today’s consumers are overwhelmed with unsecured credit card debt. They are unable to maintain making the monthly minimum payments on their credit cards. The reason why the consumer is seeking some type of debt relief is because they have incurred a recent financial hardship.
One of the options that consumers are considering is using a debt settlement company. A debt settlement company is a third party which will negotiate with the lenders on behalf of the consumer. In most cases, a debt settlement company is able to reduce the consumer’s outstanding balances by up to 40% to 50%. So considering that a consumer may have more than $10,000 in unsecured credit cards this debt might be cut in half. The savings to the consumer is monthly interest on their cards and the debt reduced from $10,000 to $5,000.
The consumer is asking, “Why would a lender accept half of the obligation due to them.” The answer is simple. If the consumer files for bankruptcy, historically there is no money available for the unsecured lenders. In other words, the lenders are willing to take something rather than receive nothing on the obligation. If a consumer does file bankruptcy then the lender has to write-off as a bad debt this obligation which affects their bottom line.
Using a debt settlement program is not a quick fix or an overnight solution to the consumer’s situation. However what it does is allow the consumer to save monies into a “trust/escrow” account over a period of time. Normally, this amount is less than what their combined monthly minimum payments are on the debt. The debt settlement company begins negotiation with the lender when at least half the monies are saved against the lowest outstanding debt.
Debt settlement is an option for many consumers today. Therefore, call your debt settlement expert today to discuss how they can help you.
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Posted in Debt Coaching Corner
The definition of debt settlement is a third party who negotiates with lenders on behalf of the consumer. Debt settlement is a method of getting out of debt for the consumer’s who have fallen on hard times.
Debt settlement is one of the methods used by consumers when they fall behind on their unsecured debt obligations. A debt settlement company may be able to reduce the consumer’s outstanding balances. The consumer may be asking why use a debt settlement company instead of trying to negotiate with the lenders themselves. As a consumer you can take this approach, however one of the drawbacks is you will be working with multiple lenders. These lenders would want the agreed amount money upfront in order to settle your account.
By using a debt settlement program, they will negotiate on your behalf and notice the lenders of your indications of using a settlement program. The debt settlement program will set up a “trust/escrow account” for the consumer. Each month the consumer is deposit an agreed to amount in order to start saving. Once the account has reach at least half of the lowest outstanding balance of one your credit cards, the company will begin negotiations with the lender.
The consumer will now be making only one monthly payment instead of multiple payments over a set period of time. It may take between 12 to 48 months to complete the cycle of reducing the consumer’s unsecured debt.
So start today and contact a representative so they can answer all your questions so you can start living debt free!!
Tags: alternative to bankruptcy, alternatives to bankruptcy, avoid foreclosure, bankruptcy alternatives, bk, collection accounts, collection agency, consumer credit counseling, credit card debt, credit card debt negotiation, credit card debt settlement, Debt Settlement Articles, debt settlement companies, how to get out of debt, mortgage modification, pay off collections
Posted in Debt Coaching Corner
The biggest problem facing today’s consumer is unsecure debt. When facing this financial challenge the consumer may want to consider a debt settlement program. They want to paid off their credit cards but have been struggling because of possible job loss or reduced salary or a medical emergency.
Let’s take a quick review of what it’s costing the consumer on their unsecured credit cards. For example:
· Credit Card debt of $30,000
· 3 years of interest at 19% is $17,100
· 5 years of interest at 19% is $28,500
The above interest figures do not calculate any principal reduction on the $30,000 outstanding. So you can see that you are not making any headway on reducing your debt only adding to your financial situation.
If you have faced a financial hardship, then consider using the debt settlement method. Under a debt settlement program, a third party will negotiate with the lenders to reduce you debt possible up 50%. This would mean you would cut your outstanding balances in half and would save up to $17,100 or $28,500 over the next three to five years.
Debt settlement may not be the right program for everyone. However as a consumer, you need to call a consultant today to discuss a program that is right for you and your family.
Tags: alternative to bankruptcy, alternatives to bankruptcy, debt advice, debt consoladation, debt consolidation, debt free, debt help, debt management, debt negotiation, Debt Settlement Articles, get out of debt, how to get out of debt, late fees
Posted in Debt Settlement Articles
Today consumers are facing a hardship that has been caused by not only the economic climate of losing their jobs or reduced hours to part-time but also by a medical emergency. Perhaps only making the monthly minimum payments on their credit cards but they were able to meet their monthly mortgage and car payments on time.
So during these trying economic times, the consumer is not only stressed out because of their job lost but their inability to meet their obligations. The consumer must decide what is best for them and their family. Because of the emotional toll it is taking on them.
After the consumer, has reviewed the various options such as, debt consolidation, debt consulting, bankruptcy, do nothing or debt settlement. They will see that a debt settlement option may be their best method to unburden themselves.
As what is debt settlement? Debt settlement is a managed approach used by a third party company. This company will negotiate on behalf of the consumer to reduce their debt by up to 50% of the outstanding current balance. Basically, the consumer places a set amount of money each month into a “trust account” until approximately half of what is owe on their lowest credit card balance. It is when the debt settlement company will start to negotiate with the lenders. The lenders are more willing to take something on the balances than have the consumer file bankruptcy on them. In a bankruptcy case, depending on the assets of the consumer, normally secured lenders get repaid first then the unsecured lenders. In most cases, the unsecured lenders receive no money from the consumer.
The consumer wants to do the right thing not only for themselves but their families. A debt settlement program can take from 12 months to 48 months to complete based upon the outstanding credit card balances. This program may cost the consumer less than their current monthly minimum payments. It is not a quick fix program but a program that will allow the consumer the ability to repay their debt and repair their credit score.
Tags: alternatives to bankruptcy, avoid foreclosure, bankruptcy alternatives, credit card debt, credit card debt negotiation, credit card debt settlement, credit cards, credit counseling, debt consolidation, debt free, debt help, debt management, Debt Settlement Articles, debt settlement companies, debt settlement company, debt settlement program, how to get out of debt
Posted in Consumer Information
Credit card debt is almost a way of life in today’s economical time’s. It’s so very easy to take out our credit cards and purchase everything from groceries to our utility bills on plastic. Some of the time people can pay these off the next month and they do not carry a balance moving forward . However, for others – this is just a way of life.
Which leads us to the question of what if the unthinkable happens? I’ve been living paycheck to paycheck and living beyond my means. Of course this will lead to a degree of worry, anxiety, fear and perhaps to denial of the severity of your financial situation. Because you don’t have a reserve or back up plans. So, y ou have become obsessed with your money problems of missed payments, bill collectors calling and possible litigation.
Needless to say, it’s common for the consumer to avoid the collection calls which further adds fuel to the fire because the collectors just become more aggressive in their tactics. You begin to experience depression but you need to get back to reality and deal with the situation head on!!!
In visiting Dave Ramsey’s website I came upon this comment….”Laziness is a character flaw. You need to be willing to work and sacrifice in order to fix the situations that you created with your own irresponsibility. If you are not willing, then you cannot be helped.” I agree with this statement 100 percent.
The consumer needs to toll up his sleeves and get ready to work hard. You need to rip up the credit cards and start by being honest with yourself and your creditors. It’s time to get proactive and deal with your situation today.
Contact a consultant who can answer your questions and put you on a path of financial freedom!
Tags: consumer credit counseling, credit card debt, credit card debt negotiation, credit card debt settlement, dave ramsey, Dave Ramsey says, debt consolidation, debt free, debt negotiation, Debt Settlement Articles, how to get out of debt
Posted in Consumer Information
Today’s consumer is overwhelmed with both secured and unsecured debt. This debt burden is causing not only a financial crisis but an emotional crisis within the consumer’s family. When a family is overloaded with debt and trying to keep their head above water several things need to occur to assist with this situation.
The consumer needs to step off the financial and emotional treadmill they have built for themselves. There are several ways to approach the problem. The consumer need to investigate the solutions that are currently available for them and their particular financial situation.
The most common methods are:
· Bankruptcy – This is the most serious of solutions to your problems. Please consult an attorney.
· Debt management/debt counseling – Basically, this program works to get the interest rate lower but the balance is not reduced. These type of programs are reflected on your credit report.
· Debt settlement – A third party works on your behalf to negotiate with your lenders to cut your balance from 40 to 50%.
· Home equity loan – This is 2nd mortgage against your home if you have any equity in the property. This is normally an interest only loan with the rate floating at prime rate plus some percentage above prime.
· Do nothing – This is not a good way to fix the problem.
This is not an overnight solution for the consumer. If you select debt settlement, you will need to understand all the steps involved in the process. However, it is a method to reclaim your finances and relieve yourselves from the pressure of the mounting debt burden.
According to debt expert Gerri Detweiler, author of “The Ultimate Credit Handbook”, “It’s a little-know fact that when you fall further and further behind on your payments, creditors would much rather agree to settle your debts than have you file bankruptcy and not get paid at all.”
So call an expert today to find a solid solution for your problem.
Tags: Debt Expert Gerri Detweiler, Debt Settlement Articles, debt settlement companies, Gerri Detweiler, Gerri Detweiler author, how do I get out of debt, how to get out of debt, mounting debt, The Ultimate Credit Handbook, who do I call to get out of debt
Posted in Consumer Information
What is debt settlement? The consumer has been bombard with unsolicited mailers and advertisements on television about debt settlement. So, with that being said what do I need to know before moving forward?
Is Debt Settlement a good alternative to get out of debt? Debt settlement is when a third party company negotiates on the behalf of the consumer to reduce outstanding unsecured debts. The consumer needs to be aware of all the steps involved in using a debt settlement company. Before deciding on a debt settlement company, the consumer needs to ask themselves the following questions:
- Does the consumer understand have their credit score will be effected
- What has caused my financial situation, i.e. lost job, medical emergency
- What are my alternatives, debt consolidation, debt counseling, bankruptcy
- Is the consumer ready to work their way out of debt
When selecting a debt settlement company, the most important issue is having a clear understanding of how debt settlement program works. Here are a few steps to determine if a debt settlement program will work for the consumer:
- List all of your unsecured debt. Is it more than $10,000?
- What is the total of your current monthly minimum payments.
- What can you afford to pay monthly?
- Are you currently late on your unsecured credit cards?
- Are you committed to establishing a budget and living within you current means?
If you have answered yes to any of the above questions then you are a candidate for debt settlement. The key to completing a debt settlement program is knowing 1) you can make the new established programs monthly minimum payment, 2) know that the debt settlement company will start to negotiate with the lenders when you have approximately half of your lowest balances in an trust account, 3) know your credit score will be effected in the beginning, and 4) know you maybe subject to taxes on the unpaid balances.
It’s time for you to move forward and speak with a representative today!
Tags: credit card debt, credit card debt negotiation, debt advice, debt coaching, debt consoladation, debt consolidation, debt free, debt management, Debt Settlement Articles, debt settlement companies, debt settlement company, debt settlement program, debt settlement usa, how to get out of debt
Posted in Consumer Information
Has your monthly spending continued to outgrow your earnings? Have you suffered an medical emergency or lost your job? This is very typical of our economics in today’s reality and if this is your situation then a debt settlement company may be the solution.
Debt settlement is a method by which a third party negotiates with your lenders to reduce your unsecured credit card debt. With that said – it’s important for the consumer to have an understanding of their options and various alternative that may solve their finances.
The alternatives available to the consumer are: debt consolidation, debt counseling, equity loan on home, bankruptcy or debt settlement.
So a quick review of these alternatives:
· Home equity loan – This allows the consumer to borrow against their personal residence. There may or may not be enough equity in their residence to qualify for this loan.
· Bankruptcy – This is a major step for the consumer. The consumer needs to discuss with their attorney.
· Debt consolidation – This approach allows the consumer to pick and choose which debts to consolidation into a term loan with a lender. A term loan is normally secured by collateral from your lender and can try up to 5 years to repay.
· Debt counseling – The consumer meets with a counselor to determine an set budget to pay off your debt to the lenders. The consumer is still required to pay off their entire balances.
· Debt settlement – The debt settlement company establishes a monthly repayment plan. After at least half of your lowest outstanding unsecured credit card balance is achieved. The third party will negotiate with your lender to reduce your debt. This negotiation can be from 40 to 50% of the balance. This process can take between 12 to 48 months depending upon your debt burden.
When compared against the other alternatives it appears to be a better method in changing your financial situation. If is important for the consumer to understand all the step involved in a debt settlement. Call today to speak with a representative!
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Posted in Debt Coaching Corner
As a consumer you have been bombarded with ways to get out of debt. If you have unsecured debt of more than $10,000 and you have been receiving letters from various companies or attorney’s for debt settlement companies. But as a consumer you need to determine if debt settlement will work for you and your family.
As a consumer you need to know the steps involved in this process and if it is the solution for you and your family. Debt settlement is a way to approach your outstanding unsecured credit card debt. The debt settlement company is a third party company who on your behalf will negotiate with your various lenders.
Here are a few of the steps of that process:
· Consumer stop using their credit cards
· Consumer stops making monthly payment to the lenders
· Consumer starts making a set dollar amount each month into a “trust account”
· When this account reaches approximately half of the outstanding balance of your lowest balance debt ( owe $4,000 and $2,000 in account)
· Debt settlement company starts to negotiate with lender
· This process is repeat until all of your debts are settled
· Establish a financial budget for the future
You must ask the questions of your debt settlement company and understand their answers. You need to be clear on what the steps are and how this process will affect you and your family during this financial crisis.
Debt settlement is an alternative to the other options available to the consumer. If the following options like debt consolidation, debt counseling or bankruptcy do not appear to be the right approach for you. Then consider a good debt settlement company as a way out of your current financial situation.
Tags: alternatives to bankruptcy, credit card debt, credit card debt negotiation, credit card debt settlement, debt advice, debt coaching, debt consoladation, debt consolidation, debt management, Debt Settlement Articles, debt settlement companies, debt settlement company, debt settlement program, debt settlement usa, how to get out of debt
Posted in Consumer Information
Debt settlement is one option available to the consumer as a way out of their financial hardship. Debt settlement deals with unsecured credit. This unsecured credit can take the form of credit cards, medical bills and any other unsecured debt the consumer has incurred.
The consumer needs to realize there are two types of credit available to them. Secured credit means debt has some type of collateral backing - your home, your car or in some cases, cash secured loans. The other form of credit is unsecured which is normally credit cards from lenders or retailers.
The unsecured credit is where the consumer has caused the majority of their financial problems. The consumer has used credit card to purchase daily expenses, like their groceries, gas, airline tickets, and on-line retail shopping. The credit card companies would offer points to the consumer to purchase items and give them reward points or points toward travel. In addition, the credit card companies would offer us new credit from higher interest rate cards to lower interest rate cards, if we transferred the balances. It was like a shell game, moving balances from one card to other which allows us to have more credit.
The one way to get out of debt is to look for a debt settlement company. Debt settlement may not be for everyone. It requires the consumer to start saving money monthly until enough monies are available on the lowest outstanding balance credit card before the debt settlement company to begin negotiations.
Yes, there are drawbacks to this approach as there is to other options. This is not an overnight fix it may take anywhere from 12 to 48 months. However, the first step is to discuss with a debt settlement company the ways in which they may be able to assist you out of debt. But if the consumer is really wanting to do something and get out of this financial hardship, call us today to discuss your options.
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Posted in Debt Settlement Info
The old saying is you can’t take it with you. But, does that apply to credit card debt? A number of factors including the state you reside in, who applied for the card can radically alter the situation. Unfortunately, there is no cut and dry answer.
Here is the simple scenario – if the card was yours alone, with no joint account holders the debt is yours alone too. When you die, your estate is responsible for paying off the balance. If your estate goes through probate your executor will take a look at your assets and debts and be guided by the law to determine in what order the bills should be paid. If your estate or assets don’t cover the bills – the credit card companies will be notified and the debt is written off.
Another scenario however in which someone else could end up with the debt is if you share the account. If though, the second cardholder is merely an authorized user – didn’t sign the application, just has charging privileges they are not responsible. If a spouse or family member signed the credit card application as a co-signer then that person could be liable for the balance on the card along with the estate.
Community property states:
· Alaska
· Arizona
· California
· Idaho
· Louisiana
· Nevada
· New Mexico
· Texas
· Washington
· Wisconsin
The above states generally are regarded as assets accumulated during a marriage are considered joint property and in some cases so are debts. Please keep in mind that all states have variations so you need to ask more questions. If you late spouse has a separate account and has a debt it possible the debt could pass to the spouse.
Finally, the executor should notify the credit card companies that the account holder has died. You will need to send in a certified copy of the death certificate. Also, keep a copy for your records as proof of what was sent and when.
Tags: am I responsible for credit cards after death, community property states, credit card debt, credit card debt negotiation, dealing with credit cards after death, debt free, debt help, how to deal with credit card debt after death, how to deal with credit cards after death, how to get out of debt
Posted in Consumer Information
You receive an offer in the mail for a credit card. You send in back and within weeks you have a credit card at your disposal. It becomes the perfect recipe for a financial disaster. It seems as though many people are living beyond their means. While convenience is wonderful with regards to your credit card it also comes with a price.
Even fast food retailers know that consumers will be more likely to spend more on plastic than with cash. Needless to say, they are racing to make it easy that every outlet is now card friendly. The last thing you would want to do is purchase that hamburger on a credit card. Especially, if you’re buying it on credit, paying it off slowly or worse, finding out that your credit card company has increased its interest rates.
You need to read those little booklets that often come in the mail. Do not discard the material – if you have questions call your credit card company.
Finally, if you find yourself in doubt – pay the minimum payment on time. Big payments do not impress lenders: timely payments do. For example – if you make a late payment your lender may waive the late fee however your other credit card company’s can raise the interest rate even if you made no late payments to them. How can they do this? It’s called “universal default”. The basics of universal default are simple – if you’re more than 30 days late on a payment to anyone the interest rate on any card with a universal default clause can increase your interest rate.
With that being said – don’t take anything for granted. read the small print and if you have any questions – give your card carrier a call. Be proactive not reactive to the situation at hand.
Tags: credit card debt, credit card debt negotiation, credit card debt settlement, credit cards, credit counseling, credit score, debt advice, debt coaching, how to get out of debt, universal default rate, what is universal default
Posted in Credit Card Articles
Getting out of debt is something that as a consumer needs to be done for you and your family. This can be accomplished through a variety of plans and programs. However, every consumer needs to explore their options before selecting a plan or program. Here are some of your options……
- Debt Consolidation
- Bankruptcy either Chapter 7 or 11
- Debt Settlement
- Do nothing approach
Before selecting a plan, the consumer needs to understand how and why they are in this current financial situation. This debt was caused by:
- Unable to payoff full balances on credit cards
- Making minimum monthly payments , charging more expenses which increased limits along with the growing interest payments
- Used credit cards to purchase goods and services
- Take on more credit cards to payoff old credit cards
A debt settlement program is a better alternative to the above referenced programs. The reason for using a debt settlement company is they will negotiate on your behalf. They will deal with the credit card companies and work to achieve a settlement of up to half of your current balance. This is not any easy program for the consumer. It requires financial discipline and an understanding of the program. It may take anywhere from 12 to 48 months to be complete free of the consumer debt burden under a structured debt settlement program.
Here are a few items which you will need to address when entering into a debt settlement program: 1) be aware that your credit score will take a hit but it probably already is low due to high balances, minimum monthly payments or late payments, 2) as debt is be negotiated your credit score can begin to rise, and 3) there maybe tax ramifications upon final negotiations with the credit card company.
Debt settlement companies work because creditors often except settlements because if they don’t the consumer most likely will file for bankruptcy. In most cases, this eliminates the any funds to the unsecured creditors.
Contact us today to discuss a debt settlement program that is right for you and your family.
Tags: Add new tag, alternative to bankruptcy, alternatives to bankruptcy, credit card debt, credit card debt negotiation, credit card debt settlement, credit cards, credit counseling, Debt Settlement Articles, Debt Settlement Articles, debt settlement companies, debt settlement company, debt settlement program, debt settlement usa, how to get out of debt, how to negotiate credit card debt, pay off collections, tax ramifications
Posted in Debt Settlement Company News
Consumer’s today are buried under a mountain of unsecured debt and their largest asset, their home is losing value. One of the goals for consumer’s in today’s economic climate is to improve their financial condition.
So what does the consumer need to did to get back on track?
Here are five options to consider:
One option is to continue to pay the minimum monthly payments to your creditor for the next 10 to 15 years. This does not eliminate the debt it will continue to climb depending on your interest rate.
The second option is debt consolidation loan which is another way of dealing with your debt by consolidating into one monthly payment. But this does not eliminate your debt it only adds to your problem.
The third option is Bankruptcy. But this is not a pretty way to go for the consumer. As the law’s have changed over the years, it’s not as easy as it once was. You need to contact a lawyer to discuss the differences between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13.
The fourth option is credit counseling / debt management. This is a program offered through non-profit credit counseling agencies. Basically they work out a plan with your creditor in which you pay a specific amount each month and the monies are divided between your creditors. Again, this is not eliminating debt just adding more interest to your debt.
The last option to consider is debt settlement. This is a program in which a third party acts on your behalf to negotiate with your creditors. Each month you set aside a certain dollar amount as that amount grows, the third party starts negotiating to settle your debt. This process can in some cases eliminate up to 50% of your outstanding debt.
Debt settlement is the option that many consumers are taking to eliminate credit card debt.
Tags: credit card solutions, credit debt consolidation, debt settlement options, debt settlement programs, debt settlement reduction, eliminate debt, get out of debt, how to get out of debt, Negotiate Credit card debt, reduce redit card debt
Posted in Consumer Information
Due to unfortunate circumstances in our nation as well as around the world, many of us are struggling to make ends meet. We have rising prices in the cost of heating and cooling our homes and maintaining our cars. Shoppers are shocked at cost increases in groceries, clothing and other miscellaneous items. How do we manage to deal with these expenses? Those with adjusted ARM home mortgages, car and credit card payments in addition to normal costs of living often just can’t stretch their available income to cover everything and sometimes the house mortgage is one of those left unpaid.
Do Not Give In To Collectors
We frequently receive unwanted and unnecessary threatening phone calls from collection agencies for our past-due credit cards. When faced with choices of which bills to delay a month, we give into the pressure and make the minimum credit card payment. These collection agencies are quite skilled in intimidation and scare-tactics and sometimes that’s the best method for these collectors to get overdue payments as the debtors just want to get rid of the harassment.
Meet Your Living Expenses Before Paying Credit Card Debt
Although it’s not proper to neglect to pay your just debts when money is limited, decisions need to be made as to importance of the bills you are facing. Being on limited income and continuously facing higher costs of living, it’s a necessity to decide on what takes priority for payment and what can take a “backseat” for a month or two. Housing, car payments, utilities and food costs must be met. Also, to be considered are insurance premiums. In some communities, medical needs will not be met unless one carries insurance, although the cost of these premiums can increase budget costs. State laws require car insurance, because should you not carry liability coverage and are involved in a car
accident, serious legal consequences will follow.
Prioritize Your Bills
After planning your budget and paying the most necessary bills, then should you have money remaining, make those credit card minimum payments. If left without any money, then don’t be stressed out over the unpaid credit card bill(s). It is not likely your wages will be garnished. You will probably receive more unpleasant phone calls from credit card collectors, so calmly explain you’ve paid your main housing/living expenses and have depleted your funds. If bill collectors get nasty, lose their temper or start being obnoxious, you could lay phone down without hanging up and walk into another room. Losing your “cool” and responding to their verbal abuse lets them “win” which is their real motive or intention.
Catch Up Later On Credit Card Debt
After your financial circumstances improve, plan on catching up on all your overdue bills especially clearing up your credit card indebtedness. Try to pay off the least amount owed first, and then apply that amount to the next higher bill. Eventually, you’ll be able to get yourself out of debt. But be careful that, after doing so, you use wisdom by using credit cards only when absolutely necessary, and if possible by paying the entire balance off each month. Remember though that the most important issue is in keeping current on your house payments and normal living expenses. If you want more information on negotiating with bill collectors Negotiating with Collection Agencies, Bill Collectors, and Debt Collectors – 10 Tips.
Debt Free Dave has been in the mortgage and consumer finance business for over 10 years. He has a Finance and Real Estate degree from the University of Arizona. This Article is designed to be of general interest and should not be considered legal advice. The specific information discussed may not apply to you. Before acting on any matter contained herein, you should consult with your personal legal adviser.
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Posted in Consumer Information
Many debtors will wake up one day and ask the question, how did this happen to me. How did I get in this much debt? The truth is that it does not happen all at once. Debt is a consequence of a series of decisions that are usually lies to yourself. You may tell yourself that you will pay the bill in full when you get it, only to pay the minimum payments. There may be emotional triggers that push you to buy things that you really do not even want. You may be trying to fill up that empty hole inside of you. Unfortunately it is short term pleasure and long term pain. The joy of a purchase may only last a few minutes or even a few seconds but the reality of paying of a credit card purchase can last for years or even decades.
What Is The Long Term Cost Of Being In Debt? Continue Reading »
Tags: advice about debt, debt, debt advice, debt coaching, debt help, get out of debt, how do I get out of debt, how to get out of debt, i need debt advice, the psychology of debt, where do I get debt advice
Posted in Debt Coaching Corner
What to look for when selecting a debt negotiation company. When picking a debt settlement company, deciding on what company to have settle your debt can be confusing. You are probably already under stress and trying to make a decision that will impact you for years can be daunting. So what questions do you really need to ask.
How Big Is Your Debt Settlement Company? Continue Reading »
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Posted in Debt Settlement Articles
Being in debt can be like being trapped in a vicious circle. I am not talking about money. I am talking about the conversation that you have with yourself that go on in your head. Being in serious financial crisis may trigger memories from your past. You may be dealing with times in your past where you have failed or it did not work out. This only validates you current experience of making yourself wrong or blaming others for the situation that your are in.
The Little Voice In Your Head Is Not A Cheerleader Continue Reading »
Tags: being in debt, debt coaching, financial advice, how to get out of debt, i'm suffering over my debt, mind chatter, money coach, stop suffering over debt, stop the mind chatter, stop the noise in your head, the little voice in your head, the psychology of debt, the vicious circle of debt, the vicious cycle
Posted in Debt Coaching Corner