Debt can be overwhelming to many. Whether it’s consumer debt, student loans or medical bills, debt can loom over you and really devastate your finances if not properly addressed. Consolidating your debt is the first step to dealing with your debt and hopefully, taking action to reduce your payment amounts and interest rates to begin paying down your debt.
Below are eight ideas for consolidating your debt.
Credit Card balance transfers: Consolidate credit card debt first and foremost. Many companies offer very low rates for up to 12 months. If you have several credit cards, consider the benefits to consolidate credit card debt .
Consolidation loan: Most major banks offer a loan that you can roll all your debt into. This will give you a great advantage in that you will have 1 single payment with one set interest rate.
Retirement fund loan: Most companies allow you to borrow from your retirement fund. Generally, you have five years to pay it back before incurring penalties.
Home Equity loan: Borrow money against the equity in your home. This can be done through most banks and normally offers a much lower interest rate than you would be paying with credit card interest.
Life Insurance policy loan: Most life insurance policies allow you to borrow against the value of the policy. This may be a good short-term idea to consolidate debt.
Family loan: Borrow the money you need to consolidate your debt from a family member. Be sure to have a signed contract with the interest rate and payment amount clearly stated, to avoid hurting a family relationship.
Borrow from a friend: Borrowing money from a friend can prove to be a win/win situation. They get their money back plus interest and you are able to consolidate your debt.
Credit Union loan: Consolidate your debt into a Credit Union loan. Credit Unions are owned by the people so the interest rates are often lower than a traditional bank rate.