We have all been there. We work hard day in and day out but never feel like we can get ahead of our bills and keep control of our finances. Consumer credit card debt can feel crippling and unending. No matter how bad of a financial mess you’re in, here are five ideas about how to work towards a debt-free future and rebuild your credit:
Consider Borrowing Money
ne quick and easy way to start your journey to financial freedom is to consider low interest loans. These are especially useful if you are living paycheck to paycheck. With a low-interest loan, you are able to take out the money you need to get ahead for the next month. Having a low-interest rate on this loan allows you to pay off the loan over time without accruing a mound of interest. Always make sure you research the loan company. Often, they can offer you deals based on your income or situation.
Schedule an Appointment with a Financial Advisor
Before taking out a loan to get you back on track though, you want to take a solid and honest look at your finances. You can do this on your own, or, if you so choose, you can include the help of a financial advisor. Many advisors deal solely with debt management and can help you find all your debt and put it into a manageable state. Either way, you should be honest about what you have accrued and don’t hold anything back because of shame. Debt management companies abound, so be sure to research which companies have the best reputation.
Contact Your Creditors
After you have been honest with yourself about the damage that has been done on your finances, it is time to come up with a plan. If you have elected to use the services of a debt management company, they will work on your behalf to negotiate settlements from your creditors and consolidate payments. If you have elected to not use a company, it is your responsibility to call your creditors.
You can always ask for a reduction of fees, interest rates, or even a different settlement amount if you can pay in one lump sum. The most important thing is to make contact with everyone you owe.
Create a Financial Plan
Creating a budget for you and your family is the next step in moving through your financial stress. Make a list of anything extra that is not essential to your everyday functionality. Then, stop spending on those things. Another good place to cut costs is with your daily necessities. Can you afford to move to a smaller, less expensive place? Can you cut back on electric and water usage? How big is your grocery budget and is it negotiable? You can always find places to cut costs and then all you have to do is follow-through.
Review Your Income Streams
After you have gone through all of the planning and budgeting, you may still find yourself in a deficit. The most extreme and possibly the most rewarding step can be taking a look at your income. How much are you making? Is there a way for you to ask for a raise at your current job to help increase income? Or, do you need to find a way to take on a second job or side hustle? You may also find that moving jobs completely may be your best bet.
When you decide to take charge of your financial life, it can seem daunting. However, with the right guidance and proper planning, you can make it happen.