COLORADO...Drowning in debt, and have equity in your home?
Hey, Colorado! Do you have high interest credit cards, and can not seem to get ahead? Wish there was something you could do to get out of debt, but your credit is so bad you think there is no hope? THINK AGAIN! MONEYTREE is devoted to helping people...
Debt Reduction: Which debts do you pay off first?
If you've gotten yourself into some debt problems and are trying to drag yourself out, how do you prioritize your debts in terms of repayment? This can be the toughest decision you face - it will make a huge difference in how fast you're able to pay...
Eliminate Your Personal Debt By Debt Consolidation
If you have personal debt, then debt consolidation or credit counselling are probably the best ways there are to reduce or even eliminate your debt. This is a quick solution to a problem that could potentially last for years, even decades. In fact,...
Risks Associated with Secured Debt Consolidation
Consolidating many small debts into one large debt is well known
to be a good first step in getting out of debt, but that's not
to say that it comes without risk.
The main reason for this risk is that in order to secure a lower
interest rate...
Stop Debt Collectors Cold and get Back on Your Financial Feet
As a consumer law attorney who counsels people with debt problems, I’ve heard my share of horror stories about debt collectors. For example, a college student client was threatened that she’d be arrested if she did not pay a credit card debt, and...
Debt Elimination Program - Comparing Debt Programs
Debt elimination programs help to reduce your debt and improve your financial situation. But not all programs offer the same benefits or risks. Depending on your situation, some programs will be better than others.
Debt Management Plans – Programs To Handle Accounts
Debt management plans (DMP) handle your unsecured loans. You make one monthly payment to the company, and they handle the rest. A debt management company also works with creditors to lower your rates, helping you to pay off most accounts in five years. Creditors have predetermined rates, so all debt management companies will get you the same reduced rate on your accounts.
Not all loan rates can be lowered, for instance car and student loans. Your credit may also be frozen for a year or more. However, as you establish regular payments and a lower debt to income ratio, you will soon qualify with conventional lenders.
Debt Negotiation – Programs To Reduce Debt
Debt negotiation programs reduce part of your debt. Most companies boast that for a fee, they can reduce accounts from 10% to 50%. With a lower principal balance, your monthly payments will be lower, allowing you to pay off the rest of your account.
A reduction of your loan balances
will have a long term affect on your credit history. While you may qualify for subprime lending, most conventional lenders won’t handle your application for at least two years. Reduced debt also has to be reported as income for tax purposes.
Credit Counseling – Programs To Develop A Plan
Credit counseling programs create a personalized financial plan. A certified counselor discusses your situation in a private meeting, either in person or over the phone. They may suggest loan consolidation, DMP, or debt negotiation. They can also help you plan for your future goals, such as purchasing a home or retiring.
When you are comparing programs, be sure to compare the affect on your credit score, not just fees and tempting lower payments. The slower approach of a DMP can save you thousands in interest costs on future loans. However, there are cases when debt negotiation is the better option, especially to avoid bankruptcy.
About the Author: View our recommended companies for Debt Elimination.