5 Ways to Get Out of Debt Now

Many struggle with debt every day, getting the feeling of sinking deeper and deeper until you do not see any resolution.  Taking action now is the most important, and there are many ways to starting getting in front of debt.

Debt Consolidation

Depending the amount of accounts and balances, taking out a debt consolidation loan can group all of your debts together with one monthly payment made over the course of a few years, much like a personal loan or auto loan.  Interest rates will be based off your credit score and history, so if you have had troubles the rate may be high, but at least there is an end in sight, instead of just making minimum payments on credit cards with no end date.

Debt Management

If you are having trouble paying your bills, there are debt management companies, typically non-profit, that will set up payment plans and negotiate lower interest rates, although balances are not reduced, lower monthly payments are able to be made get out of debt within 3-6 years, depending on the size of debt.

Debt Settlement

With this program you are essentially telling your creditors you can no longer pay them and would like to settle the balance for a fraction of the price.  Your credit will be hurt significantly and your accounts will be closed. In these situations it pays off to use a combination of a professional debt settlement and credit repair agencies to help you out in these difficult negotiations.

Bankruptcy

While this may be the most drastic method with the most negative connotation, it actually can help in some aspects.  Chapter 13 bankruptcy can reorganize your debt and the individual makes payments to a Chapter 13 trustee, who then makes the payments to the creditors on your behalf, for a settled amount of money, over a period of 3-5 years.  Yes, your credit will be hurt, but maybe this is your only get out of debt option, and eventually you will be debt free and can start repairing your credit again.

Hard Work

This really is the most important, and a way to take responsibility and get out of debt yourself.  Much like all aspects when it comes to financial success is patience and discipline.  You will not be out of debt completely overnight, but you will need to change your behavior right away.  Saving, eliminating unnecessary spending, and paying down debt until it is gone, without creating new debt.

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