Consolidating Your Credit Card Debt
Copyright 2005 MHG Consulting
Credit cards have revolutionized the purchasing experience since Diners Club released the first credit card in the year 1950.
The Dinners Club credit card gave consumers limited credit that, at times, even surpassed...
Consolidation of Debt and Student Loans
So you have finally got the degree, but were you surprised with what came along with it? A pile of debt and student loans that need to be paid back starting very shortly after college! Whether it is a Federal PLUS Loan or a loan obtained from your...
Debt consolidation for homeowners: saving grace for inept borrowers
You cannot understand the importance of being a homeowner until you enter the loan market for debt consolidation. Debt consolidation for homeowners is a responsible way of getting out of debt. Your financial statement is overflowing with debt. Debt...
Debt Consolidation Services, Do You What To Take Advantage Of It?
Are you starting to have problems managing your debt obligations? Are you now contemplating on filing for bankruptcy? However, before you do so, bankruptcy reform bill requires applicants to undergo credit counseling before they can file their...
Seven Ways to Consolidate Your Debt
When it comes to debt consolidation the first thing you want to do is consolidate your debt, but the first thing you should consider are all of your options. There are in fact more options and help out there than you imagined and just because you...
Consolidating Debt? 5 Warning Signs Of A Shady Debt Consolidation Or Debt Management Company
Unfortunately, not all debt consolidation companies are
legitimate. To avoid the shady companies, educate yourself on
the debt consolidation process and watch out for these warning
signs.
Quote Unusually Low Monthly Payments
A debt consolidation company works with creditors to lower your
interest rates. Creditors have predetermined rates that they
will lower to, so every debt consolidation program will get you
the same rates. But since 2004, creditors no longer accept
reduced minimum monthly payments.
Companies who quote unusually low monthly payments are probably
giving you a low figure, which they will raise once you are in
the program. Instead of comparing monthly payments, request
information on their fees.
Demand All Debts Be Included
Companies who demand that all your debts be included in the debt
consolidation don't have your best interests in mind. Some
loans, such as credit union loans, are ineligible for lower
interest rates. And other types of credit, like student loans,
may already have a low interest rate.
However, by including all your bills in the monthly payment, the
company can charge you a higher fee for handling more accounts.
Before you enter a program, decide which accounts you want to
consolidate for lower rates.
Charge High Upfront Fees
The most common scam is to charge high upfront fees, up to
thousands of dollars, for services.
Sometimes companies will
promise to refund fees on completion of the program, but few
clients actually complete the program.
Legitimate non-profit companies charge a flat monthly fee for
each account handled. They are usually subsidized by financing
companies. For profit companies will charge a competitive fee
along with a flat monthly charge.
Offer Debt Settlement And Other Services
Be suspicious of those offering other services besides debt
consolidation. Debt settlement, credit repair, and other
programs are often just scams to take your money.
If you do need to make a debt settlement, you can save yourself
money by doing this yourself. You may also find that declaring
bankruptcy would be a better financial choice.
Request Account Numbers First
Be highly suspicious of any company that requests your account
numbers, social security number, or other personal information
before providing a quote. By providing this information, you
open yourself up to identify theft.
To receive an accurate quote, simply provide creditors' names,
balances, and interest rates.