Archive for May, 2010

Simple Steps towards Debt Management

Thursday, May 20th, 2010

For many consumers, debt is a normal part of life. It’s something they can’t avoid as they journey through life with their family. To some of them, it may even be considered a need just to get through with their daily lives.

But although this is the case around the world, people can always see to it that they are able to manage their debts. It’s not a complicated process if only borrowers think hard about it. As long as they know their financial obligations and plan well ahead using simple steps, they can achieve their goals of reducing their debt and eventually eliminating it from their life.

In the U.S., an average household today faces a credit card debt amounting to more than $9,300. Despite news reports revealing research findings that confirm the negative effect of using the plastic, many people continue to use their credit cards owing to the great convenience it provides. It’s been found that maintaining a credit card and using it regularly for even minor purchases is a costly habit. The main reason is due to the various finance charges involved for every transaction made using the card.

A good way to start towards settling your financial obligations is to assess all your debts. Find out how much of your take home pay goes to paying your basic bills and other debts such as loans. If more than 20 to 30 percent goes to debt payment every month, it’s time to sit down and plan ways to set your budget straight. Also if you’ve been taking out loans to pay for your other loans and paying only the minimum amount due each month on your credit cards, it’s time to make some changes. These should include adjusting your spending habits and making sure that you spend only on your very important needs.

When it comes to paying debt, the best option is to pay off those with high interest rates first. This applies to credit cards, assuming you use more than one. Financial experts advise that paying a bigger amount than the minimum on the card with a high interest rate and a lower percentage on the card with lower rate can help you save hundreds of dollars in interest and pay off your balance in a shorter period.

Another tip is to transfer your debt with a higher interest rate to your credit card with a lower APR. This can already be part of a debt consolidation process which can also save you money. Consumers just need to be aware of the tricks presented by some credit card companies that offer a low interest at the start but increases its rate after a month or so of its introductory period. But then again credit card owners can take advantage of this period by paying off their entire balance or at least a big percentage of that if possible during that low interest period.

Finally, in case you need to take out a personal unsecured loan such as the cash advance and payday to pay for debts, do this only to finance valuable things. It would be better to use the loan to pay for your house or your child’s education and important appliances that you can use for the long term. At least you can be sure they’ll still be with you even after you’ve paid off your debts.

Not All Debts Can Be Solved by Settlement

Thursday, May 6th, 2010

For people drowning in deep debt, sometimes their most desired solution is joining a settlement program. They think that through this method that will enable them to pay lower amounts every month, they can easily solve their financial troubles.

But financial experts warn that not all types of debt can be settled. It is because some companies won’t agree to a settlement plan. However, consumers can try some simple strategies that may greatly help them in lessening their financial burden moving forward.

When it comes to utility bills covering electricity, telephone and water, talking directly to the company is a good start. If you often delay in your monthly payment, you can just call the company and explain your situation. Being honest is a virtue and if you know how to explain your financial situation in the most sincere and truthful way you can, you may convince the utility firm to come up with an affordable payment plan. If they agree, you can then pay your monthly bills in the amount that you can afford.

In terms of tax debts, these are also not allowed to be included in settlement plans.  So in case you’re having difficulty paying the full amount, there are other options available. Again, a simple consultation and explaining to the IRS may help you apply for an alternative way to pay your taxes over time. In this situation, it will help you if you honestly reveal to the IRS your real financial situation and then request for a solution which will allow you to pay your dues gradually.

For divorced couples specifically for the breadwinners or husbands who are required to pay child support and alimony, there is also a solution if in case you miss out on sending them to your loved ones. It’s the court that issues the order for this support so the best way to settle them is by contacting the court. You just need to provide concrete proof that you lack sufficient funds and that you’re facing financial difficulty.

Additionally, be aware that creditors normally don’t accept a settlement plan for secured debt. Remember that this type of debt involves possessions such as a home or a car with high value. When you default on your payments, these are taken away from you and then repossessed by the credit company or lender. In other words, no settlement is allowed. No ifs, no buts.

This is the reason why experts stress to prioritize your house payment more than any other debt even including your credit card debt. The house is more important because it is where you live with your family.

So what’s essential here is to learn to communicate your real situation to concerned companies and lending institutions. Instead of going for debt settlement, making a call or a personal visit can be of great help to lessening your financial burden. Honesty and sincerity are also important when communicating your issues so that you can convince company officials to take immediate action on your specific situation.