How To Get Rid Of Debt Problems Step 2 -- How To Prepare A Financial Statement

Here is how to prepare a financial statement, for the purpose of negotiating reduced payments with your creditors.

Secured/Unsecured debts.
Before we get into the substance of this, let's ensure we are clear about the significance of secured debts.

If the debt is secured, there is a risk that the item upon which the debt is secured could be re-possessed, if payments are not maintained. One of the most common forms of secured debt is the mortgage -- which also typically represents a very large debt and therefore a potentially very large problem.

There are two important points to note concerning secured/unsecured debts and attempting to reduce payments.

1. any creditor who is owed a secured debt has no reason to accept reduced payment. The creditor, in nearly all cases, would rather re-possess the item upon which the debt is secured

2. The borrower must be aware that, in the case of a secured debt, any change in the agreed payments carries a risk that the item upon which the debt is secured could be re-possessed, unless the creditor agrees in advance to accept the change. Thus, in most cases, it is only unsecured debts which offer the chance of a potential reduction in payments.

Right, on to the financial statement.

The following are the items you should list, where applicable, in order to present your total income and expenditure. You should calculate and enter a monthly figure for these items.

You might like to copy and paste the following items into your Word Processor/Spreadsheet/Text Editor for printing out.

INCOME

Wages Salary (after all deductions)........................

Partners or second salary (after all deductions)...........
Benefits
Unemployment...............................................
Maternity..................................................
Sickness/Invalidity........................................
Child/One Parent...........................................
Retirement.................................................
Income Support.............................................
Family Credit..............................................
Contributions
Maintenance................................................
Lodger/Dependants..........................................
TOTAL........................................................

EXPENDITURE
Rent/Mortgage................................................
Rent/Mortgage Arrears........................................
Second Mortgage..............................................
Endowment/Mortgage Protection................................
Child Maintenance............................................
Life/House Insurance.........................................
Council Tax..................................................
Water Rates..................................................
Gas..........................................................
Electric.....................................................
Telephone....................................................
Clothing.....................................................
TV Licence/Rental............................................
School Meals.................................................
Meals at Work................................................
Car Tax/Insurance............................................
Travelling Expenses..........................................
Spending Money...............................................
Total .......................................................

You should ensure that this total expenditure figure is sufficient for your needs, and that no items of expenditure can be considered excessive. Obviously, total expenditure cannot be MORE than total income.

Your income figures will need to be proven by a copy of a recent payslip.

Look out for How To Get Rid Of Debt Problems Step 3, where we look at 'How To Negotiate Reduced Payments With Creditors'

Rob Hawkins is the owner of Debt Consolidation UK. His company Chiltern Debt Management UK has helped more than 50,000 people to get rid of debt problems, and won the coveted 'Debt Counsellor of the Year 2004' award.

How To Get Rid Of Debt Problems Step 1 -- How To Deal With Your Creditors

However far you are along the road of financial/debt problems, the same principles apply to dealing with your creditors.

However rude, intrusive, threatening the correspondence/telephone calls FROM your creditors, your correspondence/phone calls TO your creditors must be:

* Calm
* Brief
* Factual
* Relevant
* To the point

You must create the impression that you are efficient, knowledgeable and trustworthy. The person dealing with your correspondence is merely doing their job, which is acting on behalf of their employer -- to whom you probably owe money. This person probably has the opposite point of view from you, but it is not personal and you must not let it become so.

Just as you would, this individual will respond better to a person who appears to be calm, and believable, and know what they are doing.

How can you appear calm and believable, efficient, knowledgeable and trustworthy, when you possibly owe more than you can afford and have probably made past mistakes? The answer is that your past history is less important to the person dealing with your account than your present attitude and what that promises for the future.

That is not to say that what you have done in the past has no relevance, or that you can go on to make promises you don't keep - far from it. However, if you acknowledge your current problems, explain your past mistakes if required, and most important of all, do everything you say you will do from now on, you CAN improve your relationship and situation with your creditors.

If you react with anger, if you are agressive, if you fail to keep your promises, you will merely make your problems worse.

Be calm, be prepared, and make these all-important first steps work in your favour.

Look out for How To Get Rid Of Debt Problems Step 2, where we look at 'How To Prepare A Financial Statement'

Rob Hawkins is the owner of Debt Consolidation UK. His company Chiltern Debt Management UK has helped more than 50,000 people to get rid of debt problems, and won the coveted 'Debt Counsellor of the Year 2004' award. Read the full story here.

Money Problems?

You're not alone. Many people face a financial crisis some time in their lives. Whether the crisis is caused by personal or family illness, the loss of a job, or overspending, it can seem overwhelming. But often, it can be overcome. Your financial situation doesn't have to go from bad to worse.

Have you considered preparing a budget?

The first step toward taking control of your financial situation, is to do a realistic assessment of how much money you earn and how much money you spend. Start by listing your income from all sources. Then, list your "fixed" expenses - those that are the same each month - like mortgage payments or rent, car payments, and insurance premiums. Next, list the expenses that vary - like entertainment, recreation, and clothing. Writing down all your expenses, even those that seem insignificant, is a helpful way to track your spending patterns, identify necessary expenses, and prioritize the rest. The goal is to make sure you can make ends meet on the basics: housing, food, health care, insurance, and education. Your public library and bookstores have information about budgeting and money management techniques. In addition, computer software programs can be useful tools for developing and maintaining a budget, balancing your cheque book, and creating plans to save money and pay down your debt.

If your objective is to reduce interest rates and lower your monthly payments, avoid bankruptcy, consolidate your bills and have one monthly payment, or simply get out of debt the fastest way possible, then a debt consolidation loan could provide the answer.

Are you paying out too much every month for your credit cards, store cards and loans? Then why not replace them all with one, lower, convenient repayment through a consolidation loan?

Consolidation loans can give you a fresh start, allowing you to consolidate all of your loans into one - giving you one easy to manage payment, and in most cases, at a lower rate of interest.

Secured on your UK home, low cost, low rate, cheap, low interest debt consolidation loans can sweep away the pile of repayments to your credit and store cards, HP, loans and replace them with one, low cost, monthly payment ? one calculated to be well within your means.

With a Debt Consolidation Loan you can borrow from ?5,000 to ?75,000 and up to 125% of your property value in some cases.

A UK Debt Consolidation Loan is a low cost loan secured on your UK home. It frees up the spare capital (or equity) in your home to repay your store card and other debts.

It can reduce BOTH your interest costs AND your monthly repayments, putting you back in control of your life.

Debt Consolidation Loan rates are variable, depending on status

Monthly repayments will depend on the amount borrowed and term.

You may freely reprint this article provided the author's biography remains intact:

John Mussi is the founder of Direct Online Loans who help UK homeowners find the best available loans via the http://www.directonlineloans.co.uk website.

Burdened with Debt?

Too many debts? Having trouble paying your bills? Are you worried about losing your home or your car?

You're not alone. Many people face a financial crisis some time in their lives. Your financial situation doesn't have to go from bad to worse. If you are a homeowner why not look to release the equity tied up in your home, Why not consider a Debt Consolidation Loan to consolidate all your debts into one monthly repayment?

If your objective is to reduce interest rates and lower your monthly payments, avoid bankruptcy, consolidate your bills and have one monthly payment, or simply get out of debt the fastest way possible, then a debt consolidation loan could provide the answer.

Are you paying out too much every month for your credit cards, store cards and loans? Then why not replace them all with one, lower, convenient repayment through a consolidation loan?

Consolidation loans can give you a fresh start, allowing you to consolidate all of your loans into one - giving you one easy to manage payment, and in most cases, at a lower rate of interest.

Secured on your UK home, low cost, low rate, cheap, low interest debt consolidation loans can sweep away the pile of repayments to your credit and store cards, HP, loans and replace them with one, low cost, monthly payment ? one calculated to be well within your means.

With a Debt Consolidation Loan you can borrow from ?5,000 to ?75,000 and up to 125% of your property value in some cases.

A UK Debt Consolidation Loan is a low cost loan secured on your UK home. It frees up the spare capital (or equity) in your home to repay your store card and other debts.

It can reduce BOTH your interest costs AND your monthly repayments, putting you back in control of your life.

Debt Consolidation Loan rates are variable, depending on status

Monthly repayments will depend on the amount borrowed and term.

You may freely reprint this article provided the author's biography remains intact:

John Mussi is the founder of Direct Online Loans who help UK homeowners find the best available loans via the http://www.directonlineloans.co.uk website.

What is a Debt Consolidation Loan?

If your objective is to reduce interest rates and lower your monthly payments, avoid bankruptcy, consolidate your bills and have one monthly payment, or simply get out of debt the fastest way possible, then a debt consolidation loan could provide the answer.

Are you feeling overburdened with debt? Are you paying out too much every month for your credit cards, store cards and loans? Then why not replace them all with one, lower, convenient repayment through a consolidation loan?

Consolidation loans can give you a fresh start, allowing you to consolidate all of your loans into one - giving you one easy to manage payment, and in most cases, at a lower rate of interest.

Secured on your UK home, low cost, low rate, cheap, low interest debt consolidation loans can sweep away the pile of repayments to your credit and store cards, HP, loans and replace them with one, low cost, monthly payment ? one calculated to be well within your means.

With a Debt Consolidation Loan you can borrow from ?5,000 to ?75,000 and up to 125% of your property value in some cases.

A UK Debt Consolidation Loan is a low cost loan secured on your UK home. It frees up the spare capital (or equity) in your home to repay your store card and other debts.

It can reduce BOTH your interest costs AND your monthly repayments, putting you back in control of your life.

Debt Consolidation Loan rates are variable, depending on status.

Your monthly repayments will depend on the amount borrowed and term.

You may freely reprint this article provided the author's biography remains intact:

John Mussi is the founder of Direct Online Loans who help UK homeowners find the best available loans via the http://www.directonlineloans.co.uk website.

Private Student Loans ? Dispelling The Myths

Private Student Loans ? dispelling the myths

If savings, grants, scholarships, and federal loans don't cover the cost of your education, it's time to turn to private loans. But young college students can't qualify for a private loan, can they? Wrong! This article addresses this and other myths about student loans that you may run into.

I don't have any collateral, so I can't get a private loan.

Private loans are usually unsecured, which means no collateral is required. On the downside, this may also mean a higher interest rate.

I don't have a good credit history (or no credit history at all)

Since the government doesn't back private loans, your credit history is a consideration in being approved for a loan. If your credit history is bad or non-existent, you may be subject to a higher interest rate. And remember, you can always get a co-signer. Pay your loan off on time, and soon you will have a good credit history!

I have enough funds for tuition and fees, so I can't get a private loan

In addition to paying tuition and fees, funds from private loans can be used to cover living expenses, supplies, computers, and other everyday living needs.

I can't afford to make payments on a loan while I am still in school

For most loans, your principal and interest payments can be deferred while you are enrolled in school. Another option is to make interest payments while you are in school but defer paying off the principal. Your interest payments might even be tax-deductible!

I missed the deadline for applying for financial aid this year

You can apply for private student loans any time ? there is no deadline. Depending on the financial institution you choose, you can be pre-approved in minutes and have the money (which will be sent directly to you) within a matter of days.

I don't have a bank to apply through

Private loans are offered by thousands of banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions. Just search the internet for "private student loans" and you will find many places to apply to.

If you need the additional funds provided by private loans, don't let myths and misconceptions keep you from applying!

This article is distributed by NextStudent. At NextStudent, we believe that getting an education is the best investment you can make, and we're dedicated to helping you pursue your education dreams by making college funding as easy as possible. We invite you to learn more about Private Student Loans at http://www.NextStudent.com .

My goal is to help every student succeed - education is one of hte most important things a person can have, so I have made it my personal mission to help every student pay for their education. Aside from that, I am just a pretty average girl from SD.

Debt Relief From Debt Consolidation

If you are up to your neck in debt, there may seem like there is no relief in sight. In fact this is not necessarily the truth. There are ways to take all of your stifling bills and roll them up into one neat package by using debt consolidation in two very popular forms Home Equity Loans, Refinancing Loans, and a Consolidation Credit Card. All of these instruments provide the debtor with one thing "relief" from the current debt by shrinking it down to a single manageable debt.

Using home equity to consolidate debts

One of the popular methods of debt consolidation today is the Home Equity Loan. What happens is that the debt is extinguished using the equity from a homeowner's home. A loan is created outside of the mortgage in order to satisfy the debts. Should the homeowner default on the loan, their house is in jeopardy of being foreclosed upon if that loan is not satisfied with a specified amount of time.

Refinancing loans

People often consume the debt by rolling it into a new mortgage. This way the house costs more money to the borrower, but the debt is extinguished at close and the debt is neatly rolled away into the mortgage securely. Upon settlement of the loan, the debts are paid in full and satisfied. The clock on the mortgage is reset to day one.

Credit card consolidation

A low interest credit card is offered to the borrower to include any outstanding credit and loan balances. The interest rate is a low fixed rate for a period of up to one year, upon the year's end it will resume at its normal rate. Upon acceptance and terms the account should be closed once paid in full and payments be made directly to the new credit card provider. Some people have been able to master paying off one credit card with another to keep the debt revolving and interest rates low. Some people fail to close out the previous creditors account and run them back up again as well.

All three of these options provide solid relief for the debt and help them reconstruct and manage their debt better.

About The Author

Jakob Jelling is the founder of http://www.cashbazar.com. Visit his website for the latest on personal finance, debt elimination, budgeting, credit cards and real estate.

The Burden of Debt

Over recent years personal debt in the UK has exploded. Since 1997 the total debt including mortgages was in the region of ?940 million. Approximately 18% of that figure is unsecured credit, accounting for about ?8000 per household.

This is a staggering amount of money. With interest rates being raised several times last year, the strain of maintaining our debt is taking its toll. Sources reveal that the UK's debt "has increased every single month without fail since April 1993".

As it has been relatively cheap to borrow money over that last few years it has been very easy to get access to money. Interest rates are widely predicted to rise further adding even more to the current ?5 billion we are paying every month in interest.

According to the FSA (Financial Services Authority) one pound in every 10 we spend is borrowed money. It's very easy to shop around for good rates when borrowing money. Most of us still buy our financial products on the high street and the big Financial Institutions base the price of their products on what they think is the maximum borrowers are prepared to pay.

With the internet people are able to shop around for much better rates and this is driving the average price of borrowing money down. This does pose a catch 22 situation as the cheaper the cost of borrowing becomes the more people will feel they can borrow more. This does breed a nation of people that are living beyond their means. Debt can be very dangerous as you are effectively borrowing from your future to pay for today.

The wage rate is not growing in line with rising debts so somewhere along the line something has got to give. This may be in the form of the slightest interest rate rise which may be the straw on the proverbial camels back. One could associate it with a brick that is attached to an elastic band. You can gently pull and pull and nothing will happen, sooner or later the brick will finally budge and most of use will be walking around with a black eye.

If you do find yourself in debt then don't despair it's not the end of the world. As long as you face up to the fact that your financial position needs a makeover then you are on the right path. The first thing to is gather all you credit statements and get an exact figure of what you owe in total and what those monthly payments add up to. You need to be clear in your mind what you earn and what you owe. This sounds simple but you can't service your credit if your repayments are more than what you earn. If you find yourself in this position you need to consolidate all your loans into the lowest rate you can find. This will bring down you monthly payments and hopefully be more manageable.

If you need help on doing this then contact the National Debtline on (Freephone) 0808 808 4000 or the Consumer Credit Counselling Service on (Freephone) 0800 138 1111. These numbers are for UK residents only.

Grant Marwick is a freelance writer and owner of http://www.only-credit-cards.co.uk where you will find advice and more articles on Low interest Credit Cards and Bad Credit Credit Cards

Bad Credit Debt Consolidation Loan

Nowadays, many people can get into a bad credit situation if they do not keep track of their income and expenditure. Many young executives suddenly find that they are being offered credit cards by various companies. Those who are sensible will find a credit card that suits their needs, sign up, keep track of their purchases, pay off their credit card bills in full each month, and ignore offers from other companies.

There are others who may be dazzled by all the credit on offer and will end up with credit cards from several companies. They may easily end up making lots of purchases on credit while making the minimum payments on their cards. Then, one day they realize just how much debt they are in when they need a debt consolidation loan to get out of a bad credit situation.

At the Debt Consolidation and Debt Reduction Service, we do not give you debt consolidation loans. We help you reduce your debts by 40 percent to 60 percent and your payments by 40 percent. We see to it that you pay no interest, late fees, or penalties. We get you out of debt, and out of a bad credit situation, within three years. We ensure that you receive no more harassing phone calls from creditors by negotiating with them.

We can help you create a debt reduction plan. You begin by listing all your debts, estimating your income, and creating a workable monthly budget. You then have to find the money to pay off all your debts. We also offer credit counseling to our clients. We begin by advising our clients to stop using their credit cards-this automatically stops their debt situation from worsening. By helping you estimate your income and create a monthly budget, we ensure that you know how much you earn each month and how you spend what you earn.

You can consult us if you have debts that are over and above $5,000. You cannot hope to get out of a bad credit situation if you only pay the minimum amounts due every month-you cannot hope to get out of debt for a lifetime. If you decide to go in for debt consolidation-where the numerous payments you have to make each month are consolidated into one small sum-you can hope to get out of debt faster. If you are in a bad credit situation and need help with debt consolidation, fill out the form on our Web site. We will help you get out and stay out of debt for the rest of your life.

Jonathan Pike

Debt Consolidation and Reduction Service

Bad Credit Debt Consolidation Loan

Debt Consolidation Loan

Debt Consolidation of Different Loans

Debt consolidation refers to the restructuring of a large number of unsecured debts into one low monthly payment, while eliminating interest and reducing the total amount owed to creditors. Debt consolidation has become popular with people as they cope with increasing amounts of credit card debt, home mortgage loans, car loans, and student loans, along with low credit ratings and threatening phone calls from creditors. Debt consolidation is seen as the last option before declaring bankruptcy.

It often takes consumers a lifetime to get out of debt to credit card companies, because of the interest rates charged by the companies. Consumers often think they can pay off their credit card debts by paying the minimum amount they owe on a card, but they can remain in debt for the next 30 years while paying off this amount each month.

Many people, faced by their poor credit situation, are forced to declare bankruptcy, which adversely affects their credit rating for the next ten years, or to take another loan to pay off the money they owe. However, if you are already in debt, you do not need another loan-you need a debt management plan and some credit counseling.

We at the Debt Consolidation and Debt Reduction Service do just that. Our debt consolidation program can reduce your debt by 40 percent, and have you out of debt in three years instead of twelve. We can consolidate your debts into one low monthly payment, eliminate interest payments, penalties, and late fees, and rebuild poor credit. Unlike most other debt consolidation companies, we are not owned by a credit card company-our priority is getting you out of debt quickly and keeping you out of debt thereafter.

We can also help you deal with your creditors, by negotiating with them and seeing to it that they follow the provisions of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. This Act stipulates that they cannot call you on Sundays, or at work, if you have requested them not to do so. They can only call you between 8:00 in the morning and 9:00 in the evening, according to your time zone.

We can provide credit counseling by helping you prepare a budget, so you know where and how you spend your earnings. The first thing we do when you join our debt management program is to stop you from using your credit cards. By the time you successfully complete our debt consolidation program, you are not only free of debt but also more financially knowledgeable and capable of avoiding debt traps.

If you owe $5,000 or more in unsecured debts, to pay off credit card loans, medical bills, store and gas cards, student loans, back taxes, and utility bills, please get in touch with us and let us help you. We can get in touch with you within 24 to 48 hours, and help you get out of debt fast.

Jonathan Pike

Debt Consolidation Loan

For More Debt Consolidation Information Debt Consolidation Information

Is A Debt Consolidation Loan Your Best Option?

For many people the lure of easy credit has taken them into the forbidden zone of debt. Between debt on regular credit cards, shopping store credit cards, home equity lines of credit, mortgages and car payments it's no wonder consumers are finding themselves financially and emotionally drained as they float in a sea of debt.

At a time like this with debt continuing to mount the decision to use a debt consolidation loan may seem like the smart thing to do - or is it? Certainly the top financial priority should be to pay off all outstanding debt. Unfortunately figuring out how to do this and which debt to pay off first can be difficult at best and even lead to more financially related stress.

This dilemma is common among consumers struggling to eliminate debt in order to regain their financial sanity. A debt consolidation loan can be an easy answer to solve the current financial strain brought on by a large outstanding debt amount but it may not solve the long term issue. The reason is because many consumers obtain a debt consolidation loan and correctly use it to pay off their debt. Unfortunatly suddenly feeling good about their new found financial strength they make the mistake of using their credit cards again and again and again - essentially repeating the blunders that got them into trouble in the first place. Compound that with the fact that they now also must pay off teh debt consolidation loan they orginally got in order to relieve them of their initial financial burdens. This is a classic example of where using a debt consolidation loan could lead to more harm then good.

A better option would be to pay off their credit cards one at a time starting with the card that currently has the biggest balance while paying the minimum amount neccessary to all other cards. Any extra money should be devoted to paying off the card with the highest balance first. Once that first credit card is paid off then move onto the card with the next highest balance. Repeat this process until all credit cards are fully paid off then put all but one in a drawer for safe keeping. Only keep the one card handy for emergency purposes. Now concentrate all money that was previous earmarked as credit card payments towards paying off other bills - perhaps a car or house payment. This option will only work so long as the original credit cards are not charged back up again.

If a consumer has financial strength then a debt consolidation loan can be beneficial for a number of reasons. First it eliminates trying to juggle numerous bills in various amounts all at once and instead allows a consumer to focus on paying one large bill. This saves time, energy and helps to prevent accidently forgetting to pay one of the many prvious bills which could lead to more financial charges and stress. The second reason is that a debt consolidation loan should lower the actual amount of money paid out each month. NOTE - it may lower the monthly amount but will most likely increase the oerall amount needed to finally pay off all of teh combined bills depending on the terms of the loan contract. Finally it can provide a psychological boost by relieving an individual of many small bills in order to concentrate on one larger bill.

Ultimately the choice as the whether a debt consolidation loan is the right answer lies with the consumer. Every situation is different and must be treated as such. No matter what option a consumer takes to eliminate debt if there is no financial resolve or strength then they will again fall into the debt trap.

Timothy Gorman provides more loan information and free loan quotes that you can research in your pajamas on his website: Military Loans Online.

Reducing Credit Card Debt

One of the easiest "things" that can happen in life is the ratcheting up of a large credit card debt. For whatever reason, making purchases with credit cards seems easier than spending cash to obtain a product or service.

Maintaining high levels of credit card debt is not prudent. The interest rates associated with most credit cards is high. In fact, many people have managed to rack their card balances up so high that only the minimum payment is made each month. As a result, these people are taking years if not decades to pay down their credit card balances, all the while wasting an incredible sum of money in interest payments alone.

In this article, a number of strategies to reduce credit card debt are presented. These tips are general in nature but will provide a person with credit card debt a solid plan for reining in credit card balances.

A good overall strategy is to target the highest rates of interest. If you can, transfer the balance to another credit card, where you will achieve a zero or low interest rate for a set period. While this balance is not costing interest you can target other debts that are. Make sure you are prepared for when the offer period runs out and have another balance transfer offer ready to take over. You should look to have your credit card application a few weeks before your current offer period runs out. If you cannot transfer the balance then pay off as much as you can afford, so the balance reduces as quickly as possible.

Credit card companies are very competitive and as such there are some very good 0% balance transfers and purchase offers available. Look to take advantage of these, but make sure you have a plan in place on how to deal with the balance when the offer finishes. Remember that the debt has not gone away.

As mentioned previously in this article, credit card accounts usually have high interest rates. The combination of high interest rates and free spending patterns can result in the rapid escalation of credit card debt.

A debt consolidation loan can be an excellent tool to assist in the reduction of credit card debt. Consolidation loans carry interests rates far below those of credit cards. In the long run, a great deal of money can be conserved through the use of a debt consolidation loan.

While in many segments of society, the word "self restraint" is pass?, out of style like last year's fashions. But, in reality, the very best way of reducing credit card debt is through self restraint.

Of course, it is easy to bandy around the words "self restraint" and much, much harder to practice personal control.

Although it might seem comical on the surface, cutting up credit cards is a perfect first step to reducing credit card debt. No cards, no charging, less debt.

Many people leave the payment of their credit card accounts at the bottom of the monthly bill pile. Other primary accounts -- rent, electricity, phone, and the like -- understandably take a higher priority over credit card bills. But, oftentimes a person will spend money on incidental purchases before taking on credit card balances. In the end, the credit card account may not be paid on at all or, if so, after the deadline.

One way to ensure that credit card payments are made and one way to ensure that credit card debt is kept under some degree of control is via an automatic payment system on credit card accounts. A person's bank can arrange for the credit card account to be paid automatically each and every month.

By ensuring that at least a base payment is made on credit card accounts each and every month, accelerated interest rates and late fee penalties will be avoided.

In this article, three strategies for reducing credit card debt have been presented :- debt consolidation, self restraint, automatic payments.

By following one or all of these strategies, a person will work towards a more solid and satisfactory financial position.

Neil Brown is a freelance writer who makes regular contributions to online insurance and business finance

Pay Off Debt Now: 5 Steps To Getting Your Finances in Order

In our world of dizzying change, nothing is more true than the time honored statement that circumstances always change.

No where is this more true than with financial issues.

Have you ever borrowed money, or charged up the VISA card at Christmas, all the while telling yourself that you would pay everything off with a coming tax refund or bonus?

Sound familiar. And then what happens when the bonus money arrives?

Let me guess?.circumstances changed, the car needed brakes (or the kids needed braces, etc), and the VISA debt and interest charges keeps piling up.

Unless you have a plan, you will always be caught in the unpredictable grip of "changing circumstances."

This is a slippery slope that can very quickly become serious financial stress. Consider the fact that Americans are declaring bankruptcy at record rates. One in every 100 families is affected by a bankruptcy.

I was on this slope 10 years ago. Declaring personal bankruptcy and filing for divorce went hand in hand.

One of the most insightful moments of the process was preparing a written log for the trustee of all of our spending for the 5 years leading up to bankruptcy.

While all of the individual decisions made sense in the moments that they were made, they looked totally foolish in the context of the "bigger picture"

In other words, constantly changing circumstances drove us off our financial roadmap.

Consider this five step plan for getting on, and staying with, your financial roadmap.

Step No. 1: Make a list of what you owe & prioritize: Put all your bills in a pile. Then list your debts in order, starting with the largest balance first. Then prioritize your repayments (ie paying down the highest interest rate first).

Step No. 2: Eliminate credit cards and don't roll over balances. Once paid off, notify the company that you want to close the account.

Step No. 3: Make a spending plan. Change your free-spending ways. Track the money that's coming in and going out. Use a debit card instead of your credit card. Download your bank transactions into a computer program for easy categorizing.

Step No. 4: Be careful about the equity in your home. Billions of dollars worth of equity has been withdrawn from millions of homes in the last few years. But many people pay down credit cards only to charge them up again ? and then you don't have the safety net of the equity in your home.

Step No. 5: Get help. For some people, the problem of overspending is a psychological one. Spending can become a habit that's as difficult to kick as alcohol, drugs or gambling. Sometimes, it's due to circumstances they truly could not avoid: medical bills or divorce or loss of a job.

You can talk with a credit counselor on a private basis. It only appears on your credit report if you enter their debt repayment program.

During this holiday season, as you consider your finances, remember that Americans are now carrying $683 billion in revolving credit card debt. 47% of the people who paid less than the full amount on their credit card bills in a recent month, made only the minimum payment due.

The good news is that planning and professional help will definitely help you turn things around.

Case in point: I went from bankrupt with zero assets living in a boarding house, to gainfully employed, running my own home based business, with 2 houses and excellent re-established credit.

In other words, it can be done.

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Pay-off-debt-now.com is run by Drew Harris and is a one-stop-shop web portal for those facing crushing debt issues. Multiple pages of resources, referrals and tools. Expert advice on credit cards, loans and avoiding bankruptcy. http://tinyurl.com/4bbum

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Consolidate All Your Debt Into One Monthly Payment

Are you feeling overburdened with debt? Are you paying out too much every month for your credit cards, store cards and loans? Then why not replace them all with one, lower, convenient repayment through a consolidation loan?

Consolidation loans can give you a fresh start, allowing you to consolidate all of your loans into one - giving you one easy to manage payment, and in most cases, at a lower rate of interest.

Secured on your UK home, low cost, low rate, cheap, low interest debt consolidation loans can sweep away the pile of repayments to your credit and store cards, HP, loans and replace them with one, low cost, monthly payment ? one calculated to be well within your means.

With a Debt Consolidation Loan you can borrow from ?5,000 to ?75,000 and up to 125% of your property value in some cases.

A UK Debt Consolidation Loan is a low cost loan secured on your UK home. It frees up the spare capital (or equity) in your home to repay your store card and other debts.

It can reduce BOTH your interest costs AND your monthly repayments, putting you back in control of your life.

Debt Consolidation Loan rates are variable, depending on status Your monthly repayments will depend on the amount borrowed and term.

You may freely reprint this article provided the author's biography remains intact:

John Mussi is the founder of Direct Online Loans who help UK homeowners find the best available loans via the http://www.directonlineloans.co.uk website.

The Pros and Cons of Debt Consolidation Loans

You are swimming in debt. You have 4 credit cards maxed out, a car loan, a consumer loan, and a house payment. Simply making the minimum payments is causing your distress and certainly not getting you out of debt. What should you do?

Some people feel that debt consolidation loans are the best option. A debt consolidation loans is one loan which pays off many other loans or lines of credit.

I'm sure you've seen the advertisements of smiling people who have chosen to take a consolidation loan. They seem to have had the weight of the world lifted off their shoulders. But are debt consolidation loans a good deal? Let's explore the pros and cons of this type of debt solution.

Pros

1. One payment versus many payments: The average citizen of the USA pays 11 different creditors every month. Making one single payment is much easier than figuring out who should get paid how much and when. This makes managing your finances much easier.

2. Reduced interest rates: Since the most common type of debt consolidation loan is the home equity loan, also called a second mortgage, the interest rates will be lower than most consumer debt interest rates. Your mortgage is a secured debt. This means that they have something they can take from you if you do not make your payment. Credit cards are unsecured loans. They have nothing except your word and your history. Since this is the case, unsecured loans typically have higher interest rates.

3. Lower monthly payments: Since the interest rate is lower and because you have one payment vs many, the amount you have to pay per month is typically decreased significantly.

4. Only one creditor: With a consolidated loan, you only have one creditor to deal with. If there are any problems or issues, you will only have to make one call instead of several. Once again, this simply makes controlling your finances much easier.

5. Tax Breaks: Interest paid to a credit card is money down the drain. Interest paid to a mortgage can be used as a tax write-off.

Sounds great, doesn't it? Before you run out and get a loan, let's look at the other side of the picture ? the cons.

Cons

1. Easy to get into further debt: With an easier load to bear and more money left over at the end of the month, it might be easy to start using your credit cards again or continuing spending habits that got you into such credit card debt in the first place.

2. Longer time to pay off: Most mortgages are the 10 to 30 year variety. This means that rather than spend a couple of years getting out of credit card debt, you will be spending the length of your mortgage getting out of debt.

3. Spend more over the long haul: Even though the interest rate is less, if you take the loan out over a 30 year period, you may end up spending more than you would have if you had kept each individual loan.

4. You can lose everything: Consolidation loans are secured loans. If you didn't pay an unsecured credit card loan, it would give you a bad rating but your home would still be secure. If you do not pay a secured loan, they will take away whatever secured the loan. In most cases, this is your home.

As you can see, consolidated loans are not for everyone. Before you make a decision, you must realistically look at the pros and cons to determine if this is the right decision for you.

Wesley Atkins is the owner of http://www.credit-cards-advisor.com- which aims to get you fitted with the best credit cards to suit your situation. With numerous credit card articles and easy online credit card applications you will never choose the wrong credit card again.

Do You Believe Any of These Top 10 Myths About Debt Consolidation?

Most people facing growing debt and limited resources have probably looked around for financial solutions and heard a little bit about debt consolidation. Debt consolidation is a great financial option to overcome overwhelming debt, but it is not right for everyone. But before you can figure out if it is right for you, you have to realize that some of what you may have thought about debt consolidation ... is wrong.

Of all the financial plans available for people dealing with overwhelming debt, debt consolidation is probably the most valuable and the least understood. In fact, you may already believe some of these common myths about debt consolidation. Find out the truth!

Myth #1 Debt consolidation is the same or similar to debt management, debt settlement, and bankruptcy.

Truth Debt consolidation is nothing like those other programs. In truth, it is not so much a "program" (you can even do it on your own, if you know enough) but more of a strategic approach.

In debt consolidation, you lump all of your debts together and repackage them. Debt settlement and debt management typically involve dealing with a company or counselor and the object is to reduce the amount you owe. Bankruptcy is a legal proceeding that involves a date with a judge.

Myth #2 Debt consolidation reduces your debt.

Truth No, it doesn't. If you owe a total of $80,000 on several credit cards and loans and you consolidate that debt, you still owe $80,000.

Debt consolidation does not re-negotiate, settle, write off, or reduce any of your debt. What possible advantage is re-organizing your debt like that?

If you have a lot of loans at high interest rates, repackaging those higher-interest debts into one larger loan at a lower rate reduces your interest and the amount you have to pay. This means you can either pay less a month or (even better) pay the same amount but get the debt paid off sooner.

Myth #3 Debt consolidation will hurt my credit score.

Truth Done properly, debt consolidation will not impact your credit score or credit report negatively. In fact, debt consolidation may even improve your credit score! That's because you'll be paying off a bunch of smaller loans and any time a loan is paid in full, that helps your credit score.

Myth #4 Debt consolidation requires getting help from an outside agency or a lawyer.

Truth While there are companies that specialize in debt consolidation programs, you do not have to use them to consolidate your debt.

Of course, if you want to consolidate your debt on your own, you have to know a bit about how to do it and what the options are. But it can definitely be a do-it-yourself project for people good with money (or who are willing to learn enough to get good with money).

Debt consolidation is also not necessarily visible to outsiders. Your bank, the credit bureau, and other parties may not even be aware that you have consolidated debt.

Myth #5 Debt consolidation is something for financial losers and lightweights, not for people who know how to manage money.

Truth This is the most far-out myth about debt consolidation. Debt consolidation is a principle that is used in business and by the super-wealthy all of the time. It is a way of organizing and structuring your debts in a way that is most advantageous to you.

Myth #6 Debt consolidation is just robbing Peter to pay Paul; you're just getting more debt!

Truth Debt consolidation is indeed a way for you to pay off one debt by getting another debt. But not all debts are equal.

As an example, let's say that you owe $10,000 and the loan is set up so that you have to pay 22% interest. For example, let's suppose that I go to my credit union and work out a deal to borrow $10,000 at 12% interest. While both debts are still in the amount of $10,000, the debt at 12% interest is a better deal for me. I won't have to pay as much per month or, if I make the biggest payments I can, I can pay it off sooner.

Myth #7 Debt consolidation requires you to be a homeowner.

Truth There is a grain of truth to this, in that owning a home definitely offers an advantage to anyone who wants to consolidate debt. (It doesn't matter if your home is paid for or not, but you do need some home equity.) However, you can consolidate debt without owning a home, too.

Myth #8 Debt consolidation will make it harder for me to get future loans.

Truth In most cases, it is unlikely that anyone but a forensic accountant could figure out that you consolidated your debt (unless you go through a debt consolidation companythat might leave a paper trail).

If you borrow money in one loan and then take out another, more advantageous loan to pay off the first one, you're more likely to leave a paper trail of somebody who pays off debt responsibly. It is more likely to make you a desirable creditor.

Myth #9 People who consolidate debt just wind up digging themselves in deeper in debt!

Truth It is absolutely possible to consolidate your debt and then keep spending and get yourself in a big mess. That's why you need good information and a plan to pay off your existing debt, manage your finances now, and start planning for your financial future.

There is no reason that debt consolidation cannot work to get you out of debt for good, but you have to have a plan.

Myth #10 Debt consolidation will allow me to write off some of my debts and it will stop bill collectors from calling.

Truth Let's take these one at a time.

Unlike bankruptcy, debt consolidation will not allow you to write off any of your debtnot a penny of it. Whatever you owed as a debt before debt consolidation is the amount you'll owe after debt consolidation.

The advantage is just that you structure it in a more favorable loan. You do not get existing debts cancelled or decreased! Now it's true you can work that out in other debt management solutions (debt settlement lets you reduce debt, bankruptcy will let you write some debt off) but they come at a very high price. Both of these approaches will have a negative impact on your credit score, will make it hard for you to get future loans, and stay on your record for quite a while. Bankruptcy, in particular, is an extreme solution that involves an actual court proceeding and a judge who has the authority to make certain decisions about your financial situation (including forcing you to sell some items to pay off debts).

Debt consolidation can only stop bill collectors indirectly. Here's how: let's say you have six debts and you're getting calls all of the time. If you consolidate your six debts into one large debt consolidation loan at more favorable terms, you'll pay off all of those debts. Bye-bye, bill collectors!

However, if you don't pay off your new debt consolidaiton loan on time, the bill collectors will start calling again.

Credit Card Debt Consolidation: Finding The Right Program - Advantages And Disadvantages

You never know when and who would need help from a credit card debt consolidation program. Sometimes unexpected circumstances can lead to financial difficulties which in turn would lead you to consider debt consolidation. Some of these circumstances are loss of job, loss in business, death of an earning member and so on. If you are finding it hard to pay off your credit card loans, then it is wise to consider debt consolidation. This is much better than bankruptcy. This article will help you with steps in finding the right credit card debt consolidation program, make you aware of the advantages and disadvantages of debt consolidation so you can decide whether credit card debt consolidation is the best option for you or not.

Basics of Debt Consolidation

Debt Consolidation is a big loan that will pay off your credit card loans. There are several ways these debt consolidation programs work. The most popular way is to take one lump sum amount of money from you (the borrower) and distribute it to your credit card companies (the lenders). All your loans will be consolidated into one payment usually withdrawn directly from your bank on a fixed date every month. These programs make the card holders life easier.

As a general rule, if you have many credit cards from different companies with high interest rates, then debt consolidation can help you manage your debt with only one bill and much lower APRs. These debt consolidation companies negotiate a lower interest rate for you and this can save a lot of money in the long run. This will work out in your favor if you have credit cards with APRs of around 30% because the debt consolidation programs can reduce these interest rates to between 12% - 18%. These programs require a monthly administration fees, which is usually around and this will come off your savings. Remember if the admin fee does not come off your savings, then it is not a good idea to sign up for a debt consolidation program.

So it looks like everything about the credit card debt consolidation is positive. Well, it is not always the case. There are a few advantages and also disadvantages of debt consolidation programs. You have to find a balance between them. The fact is that credit card debt consolidation companies do help you in paying off your debt. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of these programs.

Advantages

1. Decreased payment amounts: The monthly payments will be less than what you were paying before debt consolidation because you are paying off the loan over a longer duration.

2. Simpler to manage: After you signup in the debt consolidation program, you will have a relief from reading your credit card statements, deciding how much to pay for each credit card and then making the payments one by one. Usually, the company will withdraw the money directly from the bank and you will not have to be concerned about late payments.

3. Decreased interest rates: This is one of the major advantages for many credit card owners. Some of the debt consolidation companies bring down the interest rates much lower than the current ones. This can save lots of money for you.

4. Debt Management tips: Many of the good debt consolidation give lots of free tips on managing your debt. They draw out a plan on debt management. These tips are invaluable. They even mail out booklets on debt management.

Disadvantages

1. Lower FICO scores: Many experts debate that debt consolidation does not have any effect on credit (FICO) scores the fact is that debt consolidation has a negative effect on the credit scores. Enrolling into debt consolidation will always be reflected in your credit history. Most credit repair companies mention that it is difficult to increase your credit score if you are currently working with a debt consolidation program. Your credit scores can be raised after you have paid off the loans and are not currently in any debt consolidation program. Even if you can remove one credit card from the debt consolidation program that can help you increase your credit scores.

2. Higher Payment: Since your payments are made over a longer duration of time i.e. in more number of the years, then you will end up paying more in the long run. One way to prevent this is - if your financial situation has improved, then you can pay off larger sum of money. Most of times there will be no penalty for paying off the debt sooner than the agreed number of months. Before enrolling in a credit card debt consolidation program, you can confirm if there is a penalty or not for paying off the debt sooner than the agreed number of months.

3. Credit cards inactivation: If a credit card payment is enrolled in a debt consolidation program, then that particular card account will be inactivated. i.e., that credit card can no longer be used.

4. Negative Impact on Future Loans: Once you have enrolled in a credit card debt consolidation program, this will remain in your credit history. So, all future loan requests (new credit card applications, home loan, car (automobile) loans etc.) will involve references to your debt consolidation. i.e., the lender will have knowledge about your participation in debt consolidation program. Some people are very uncomfortable about this but it is up to you decide. Your credit history is a private record and will be provided by credit score companies only on a need-to-know basis. If you apply for home loan, then the chances of getting rejected is higher and if you get accepted, then mortgage broker will ask for explanation. Again all these conversations are kept confidential.

So, the question is - when should you consider a credit card debt consolidation? If you are paying high interest rates around 30% on a credit card, you have many credit cards, you are unable to make payments or your are barely able to make just the minimum monthly payments, you are finding it difficult to manage all the payments etc., you must consider signing up for a credit card debt consolidation program. After reading through the advantages and disadvantages mentioned earlier, make decision about signing up or not signing up for credit card debt consolidation program.

How to find a good debt consolidation program / company?

Signing up with the right debt consolidation program is critical for saving money and successfully consolidating your debt. There are a good number of scams in the debt consolidation business so it is in your best interest to proceed cautiously to prevent being victim of a scam. Here are some very good sources of finding the right debt consolidation program.

1. References from friends and relatives: It is best to ask your trusted friends if they have any recommendations for reliable credit card debt consolidation program i.e., if they have enrolled in one of these or know of anyone who enrolled in one and is satisfied. As mentioned before, there are many scams and so with this option, you can feel safe. This should be your first option.

2. Television advertisements: Most of big and established companies run advertisements on TV. These are companies that have a lot of experience and have been successful with debt consolidation. But it is a wise thing to research the company. Look for their website and check for their standing in Better Business Bureau (BBB) and must have been in existence for a few years. Also, search http://ripoffreport.com website for this company - this website where victims of scams post their experiences.

3. Mails: When you are unable to payoff debt on time, you will receive mails from some companies that will offer help with debt consolidation. These companies have permission to access some of your basic information. The good thing here is that your fit their profile of enrollees and that is why you received a mail with their credit card debt consolidation services. As mentioned earlier, research these companies using the same methods described above.

4. Telemarketing phone calls: Typically, telemarketing phone calls that you get is because your debt situation is such that it fits the requirement of their enrollees. If you receive a phone call, remember to never enroll in the first phone call. Note down all the details of this company such as the websites, contact person and phone number to call. Research the company extensively as mentioned above.

5. Online Research: Research the internet for good credit card debt consolidation companies both non profit and profit companies. Once you create a list of possible companies, research the companies extensively. Talk to these companies until you are comfortable about enrolling with them.

For a few months or years, if you can handle the disadvantages of credit card debt consolidation programs, then enroll in a program. Debt consolidation can get you out of your current debt problems and save you a lot of money by lowering your interest rates but if you do not spend judiciously, then you will be back into the same debt problems and this cycle will never end. So the long term solution to debt problems is to change your spending habits and live slightly below your means. Remember you need to manage the money / debt and NOT let the money / debt manage you.

16.4% APR $5,000 Auto Loan...HELP!

Are you the victim of a high interest rate auto loan? If so, the following email discussion may help you. Read on:

DEAR LoanResources.Net:

I was very impressed with your article entitled "8 Point Checklist, Evaluating Online Lenders."

I have tried several sources to refinance my auto. I only have 2 more years to pay $245.04 a month. I owe 4,414.00 on the car loan.

This may not seem like a lot of money but I would like a lower interest rate on my car loan which is now $16.4% APR.

I want to still pay it off in 24 months but at a lower rate so that I can use the money saved to help pay off other bills.

In my internet searches, the auto refinance loans required that you borrow more money than I need. I tried to search for unsecured personal loans on your website and they also required that I borrow more money.

I have a very good credit record and I am working to get some of my bills paid off.

Is there anything you can suggest so that I can get a lower rate auto loan for under $5,000? Any assistance will be appreciated.

Thanks. Geraldine W.

DEAR Geraldine:

Sorry I have not gotten back to you sooner. I took a couple weeks off to be with family...Thanks for the compliment on the article!

Anyway, I read your email and I do indeed have a suggestion or two that I'm happy to share.

A COUPLE THINGS INITIALLY:

1. First, you're paying a very high interest rate at 16.4% APR for an auto loan! I'm going to assume that your statement as to your good credit is accurate. If that's true, then you do indeed need to fix this.

2. Since you only need $5000, with the intention of paying it off in 2 years or less, I don't think you should look for a refinance auto loan or a refinance on your home. Indeed, the bank is going to want to loan you much more money, usually at least $25,000. While a refinance or equity loan on your home does offer tax benefits, we're only talking about interest on $5,000 over the course of 2 years. I have another idea you may not have considered.

HAVE YOU CONSIDERED?

Have you considered just putting the balance of your car loan on a credit card that has a lower interest rate?

1. Credit Cards are, indeed, unsecured lines of credit with financial institutions.

2. They are the perfect financial vehicle for a $5,000 transfer of debt, with added flexibility, and you should be able to find an interest rate between 9 to 11%, and better, on average.

3. IN ADDITION! Once approved, the bank will usually give you blank checks for balance transfers (sometimes they'll just do it for you right over the phone)...,

4. AND GUESS WHAT? The majority of the time, the incentive interest rates on the balance transfers are EXTREMELY low; sometimes zero percent for up to 6 months to a year.

5. IN ADDITION! you can apply for incentive cards that provide rewards for your spending....free airline miles, cash back programs, etc. I use the American Express Blue, and I get cash back of up to 3% on everything I spend. So, for $5,000, 3% cash back, AMEX? pays me $150.

How do you like them apples? The bank pays YOU to borrow money.

RECOMMENDED PLAN OF ACTION:

So, Geraldine, here's what I recommend you do:

1. Go back to our website, and explore the credit card offers we've recommended. We've picked out what we think are the best offers, and there are a LOT of them, so think of it as a much needed shopping trip! Pay particular attention to our links for "incentive cards". We have two pages of them.

2. Apply for whatever card or cards suit your tastes and needs. There are so many great reward cards. Limit yourself to only your imagination.

3. Get approved, receive card, and receive balance transfer checks.

4. Pay off loan to 16.4% bank!

5. Pay off credit card loan (with extremely low rate and incentives), at your leisure!

?And enjoy the fact that you just made an excellent financial move, saved money, made money, and gave yourself the flexibility to manage your debt on your own schedule...

Hope this helps...Let me know how it all works out.

We've enjoyed providing this information to you, and we wish you the best of luck in your pursuits. Remember to always seek out good advice from those you trust, and never turn your back on your own common sense.

Publisher's Directions:

This article may be freely distributed so long as the copyright, author's information, disclaimer, and an active link (where possible) are included.

Disclaimer: Statements and opinions expressed in the articles, reviews and other materials herein are those of the authors. While every care has been taken in the compilation of this information and every attempt made to present up-to-date and accurate information, we cannot guarantee that inaccuracies will not occur. The author will not be held responsible for any claim, loss, damage or inconvenience caused as a result of any information within these pages or any information accessed through this site.

Copyright 2005, by LoanResources.Org , This article is available in full format at: Auto Loan Help , Tom Levine provides a solid, common sense approach to solving problems and answering questions relating to consumer loan products. His website seeks to provide free online resources for the consumer, including rate-watch, tips and articles, financial communication, news, and links to products and services.

Open the Cash Vault Inside Your Home

Believe it or not, many people do not understand equity and the power it provides.

In its purest form, equity is money. With regard to real estate (specifically, your house or other investment property), equity is measured in terms of the value of the property minus what you owe. So, if your home is valued at $100,000, and you owe $40,000 on it, you have $60,000 in equity (actual money that is available to you, under particular circumstances).

Surprisingly, many people have this type of equity and do not take advantage of it. Some people are actually in dire financial straits and fail to realize their problems can be solved very easily, by taking the equity from their home. Remember, your home is a "vault," and the money inside that vault belongs to you. Best of all, you can use that money/ equity for anything you desire, from home improvement to travel expenses to spending money.

Exactly what is a home equity line of credit or HELOC? A home equity line of credit, which lenders and mortgage brokers refer to as a HELOC, is a different kind of home loan. An equity line has different rates and terms from a conventional first mortgage. In a standard home loan, or mortgage, your monthly payments cover both the principal loan and the interest you are charged.

Most mortgage payments include escrow, or taxes and insurance. An equity line of credit payment does not reduce your principal loan amount and does not include escrow. You are borrowing the equity in your house and paying the bank an interest premium on that loan. With a HELOC, you pay only the interest on the loan and, generally, you get the money for less time than you do a standard first mortgage.

The underwriting on these loans is very simple, and in most cases, the loans are very easy to get. At close, you either get one big check, which you can deposit into your savings or checking account or you can get a check book and treat your equity line of credit as another checking account. The payment on equity lines is very enticing. Paying interest only makes for a very low payment. It's important to remember, though, when paying interest only, you are not paying down the principal loan balance.

The Power of Interest-Only Payments So, let's suppose you take an equity line for $50,000 at 4.25% interest. This interest rate is based on the Prime rate, a floating rate that can change but does not fluctuate very often. When this article was first published, the prime rate was 4.25 percent. So, on your $50,000 equity line of credit, your payment is $177.00 each month. This is an incredibly low payment on a loan of this size. This gives you a great deal of power, because you can control a large sum of money for an extremely low monthly payment. It is this low, because you are only paying the interest on the loan.

At the end of the first year, you will have paid the bank over $2,100. You will, however, still owe $50,000. This is because your monthly payment is an interest-only payment. This is where some people can get in trouble with home equity lines of credit. If you use all the equity in your home and never pay down the balance, then decide to sell your house, you won't make anything on the sale, because you'll owe it all to the bank.

It is also important to understand the terms on a home equity line of credit (HELOC). When talking to mortgage professionals about home equity lines of credit, be sure you understand the terms, as lenders vary on what they'll offer. Like conventional mortgages, which have terms of 30 years, 15 years, 10 years, etc., home equity lines also have various terms, but not all lenders offer them. Don't let this confuse you. Just find your trustworthy mortgage broker, and tell him or her exactly what you want.

Unlike mortgage payments, which include complicated yearly amortization of the principal loan amount, interest-only payments are calculated very easily. You can do it in two simple steps. To find out your payment, first learn what rate of interest you'll be charged. If you are using 80 percent or less of the equity available and you have an A credit rating, you'll be able to get the best rate available, which is the prime rate.

Now, let's assume you have $40,000 in equity in your house, but you only need $20,000 (taking less than 100% of the equity is important). You take $20,000 and multiply it by 4.25%, which gives you 850. This is what you'll pay each year to borrow $20,000. Next, divide the 850 by 12 for a monthly, interest-only payment. Your payment for your $20,000 home equity line of credit is $70.83.

This is a very powerful loan. Imagine paying less than 71 dollars for the ability to control $20,000. Some people pay more for cable TV or their monthly cell phone bill. Some people even take the equity in their home and invest it elsewhere. You're probably figuring out how much equity you have right now, and what you can do with that money!

To learn how you can turn your equity into a never-ending money cycle that will fill your bank account year after year, read Winning the Mortgage Game. Whatever you decide, open the cash vault inside your home, and make use of your equity today.

Mark Barnes is author of the wealth-building system, Winning the Mortgage Game and other investment real estate books. He is also a suspense novelist, and his new novel, The League, will thrill both suspense and sports fans. Learn about Mark's wealth-building system and get his free home loan course at http://www.winningthemortgagegame.com. Learn more about The League and read an excerpt at http://www.sportsnovels.com

Credit Cards Debt Consolidation

Consolidating credit card debt is never easy. Too often people run up their debts without even realizing it until it is too late. If you are one of these people, don't feel bad or trapped, or that there is something wrong with you. Credit cards are the hardest bills to consolidate because the interest rates are so high. But not any more. We are here to help you get your monthly payments to a bear minimum.

Most often, credit card debts get so high because people feel trapped within their payments. More often than not, you will find yourself using one credit card to make payments on another. You think to yourself, "at least I'm making the payments on time", when in actuality, you are simply substituting one payment for another. Right now you probably have up to five different payments to make. Let our professional team convert your five payments into one affordable payment. We'll help you sleep a lot easier.

Written by Risto - Webmaster of credit cards comparison site http://www.credit-cards-info.com

Types of Loans That Can be Part of Student Loan Consolidation Plans

As you are aware there can be several types of student loan consolidation for you.  Broadly however there can be two categories.  These are Federal Student Loan Consolidation Plan and Private Student Loan Consolidation plan for you.  Consolidation is made applicable to both types of loans. 

Stafford loans, private and federal, subsidized or not are prime subjects for such student loan consolidation.  You can also consolidate the HEAL, HPSL and Parent PLUS loans availed.  The PLUS loan includes the federal direct loans, consolidation loans, and direct loans.  Other loans that could be consolidated are Perkins Loans and Nursing Schools Loans.

About the federal and private loan consolidation processes

Federal loans as well as the direct consolidated loans cannot be consolidated once again without obtaining or including additional loans.  If you have already effected the student loan consolidation in respect of your undergraduate loans you can also add the graduation loans at later dates.  Since these are additional loans such loan consolidation shall be permissible.

You may also like to consolidate the private loans you had obtained as student.  Never ever try to consolidate federal with private loans that results in private consolidated student loans.  Such consolidation will deprive you of many benefits you could obtain with federal loan consolidation process.

Drawbacks of consolidating federal with private loans

Several drawbacks occur when you try to consolidate federal loans with the private loans.  Some of them are –

•    With federal loan consolidation you can defer payments if you wish to resume your academic career.  No such facilities are available under private loan consolidation plans.

•    Forbearance despite all economic hardship is not possible in case of private loan consolidation though permissible in case of federal loan consolidation. 

•    No income tax deductions as in case of the federal loan consolidation interests are available in private consolidation plans.

•    You have chances to be forgiven in case of federal loan consolidation that is not permissible under private loan consolidation plans. 

•    Like federal loan consolidation the military services, working as trainer in the economic development zones etc may not render you for any relaxation under private plans.

•    Private loans do not die a natural death in case of your untimely demise.  Your heirs and successors in interests would be responsible for repayment.

•    Private loan consolidation rates are variable while the federal loan rates are firm and often better.

Federal student loan consolidation should be your first priority

If you are going for college loan consolidation your best bet would be to consolidate your federal loans first. The federal loan consolidation carries the best student loan consolidation rate and will be highly beneficial in financial terms compared to the private loan consolidations.  Once you carry out your federal loan consolidation successfully it will boost your credit rating.  In result you will become eligible for much better terms and conditions going for the private loan consolidation at a later stage.

Why Student Loan Consolidation?

Why Student Loan Consolidation? Due to the rising cost of higher education, a large number of students have been forced to finance their education by getting student or education loans. While student loans are easy to get and come with the cheapest rates of interest, paying them off is not so easy for the vast majority of students who find themselves facing mountains of student loan debt.

People generally find it tough to pay back student loans because the loan installments are not calculated keeping in mind other types of student loan debt. Most students also accumulate a number of other loans like huge credit card bills and car loan, which also require financing upon graduation. The best way of getting out of this kind of debt trap is to go in for student loan consolidation. A student loan consolidation program can be a lifesaver for a student and can totally turnaround a negative student loan debt situation to one of good fortune.

There is no logical reason not to seek out student loan consolidation. By finding a student loan consolidation program that meets their personal student loan debt needs, students can avoid defaulting on payments which will leave a permanent red mark on life long credit history. This would make it difficult to get any kind of financing when necessary in the future. On the other hand, by undertaking student loan consolidation, there is the opportunity to easily reduce student loan debt or in some cases eliminate the student loan debt while obviously at the same time streamlining finances and budget. Most student loan consolidation programs also offer credit counseling, which will help you in managing your finances wisely in the future.

The student loan consolidation company pays off all of the student loan debt. This means that the student loan consolidation program payment will be the only payment obligation and can be paid off in easy monthly installments. Students have the option to pay back student loan consolidation charges over a period ten to thirty years. With student loan consolidation, student loan debt has been reduced or eliminated with future obligations becoming due at a time when more earning power is likely. To apply online for student loan consolidation where student loan debt lenders compete and where students can lower their monthly student loan debt payment up to 70 %, students visit: Studentdebtconsolidationprograms.com

Student loan consolidation programs are presented with the goal of reducing student loan debt with students in mind.

California Home Equity Loans - Disadvantages of Using Your Home's Equity

Because of home equity loans homeowners have the opportunity to tap into their home's equity and acquire extra cash. Home equity loans and home equity lines of credit are very useful. For example it is the perfect way to consolidate debts make home improvements or pay for college. Yet there are certain disadvantages to using a home equity option.What are Home Equity LoansThe basic concept of home equity loans is simple. Before a homeowner can obtain a loan approval from a bank credit union etc