Monday, October 13, 2014

The Way To Be Debt Free For Life

By Estelle Larsen


Many people are living with debts today due to the economic situation worldwide. This burden affects every aspect of their lives and even their health can take a knock due to the stress over finances. They often have no idea of how to go about changing this. Some sound financial advice is usually necessary for those who wish to be debt free for life.

The first step to take towards this goal is to admit to the problem. Many people live in denial but stuffing unopened bills away in a drawer is not going to solve anything. If you have debts and yet you are driving a fancy car or eating out regularly at restaurants, you have not yet faced the issue. You have to live on less than you make and be able to put money aside for emergencies, buying a house or retirement.

In facing up to the problem, the first step is to make a list of every amount owed. Most people have credit card payments, mortgage loans, car payments and student loans to pay every month. No matter how small the amount owed, it must be added to the list. You also have to start paying attention to details, such as checking statements.

Once the list is made, it is worthwhile to consult a financial adviser. He will usually offer a way to consolidate the debts so that a more manageable single payment can be made on a monthly basis and better interest rates may be offered. This can go a long way towards relieving the stress.

Paying off debts with higher interest rates needs to happen as speedily as possible. This high interest means that the amount keeps growing and it becomes difficult to get out from underneath it. It is worth asking the creditor if the interest rate can be reduced if possible.

It is very important to communicate with your creditors. Ignoring them is the worst option and they are often understanding if this communication takes place. A payment plan can be drawn up for settling outstanding amounts.

Every little action taken to save can end up making a difference. Use coupons, buy cheaper brands, look for specials and sales. Do not buy on impulse but rather consider carefully if what is being purchased is really necessary. Save on utility bills by watching water use, switching off unused lights and putting timers on geysers. Save petrol by doing a number of errands together.

Once you have changed your way of thinking, it is possible to climb out from under what appears to be an immense burden. You may even find yourself in a position where you can start to put away some savings. Once you have started to do this, you can think about learning more about investing. Before you know it, you are on a sound path financially.




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