Persistent problems
paying debt or over spending mean it may be time to call for
help. Here are the warning signs -- and here's what to do.
"You know you need to
get help from a credit counseling when . . ."
It may sound like a
comedy routine opener, but for lots of people it's definitely
not a joking matter. Many who are weighed down with debt and
bills opt first for self-help, trimming back on spending and
keeping a close eye on debts. But much like dieting, some
people have the willpower to shed a few pounds on their own
while others require the help of a personal trainer. When do
you need to call in a money counseling?
Here are 15 instances
that could indicate that your balances are getting the better
of you and that credit counseling might help.. locate an
institution to consolidate credit card debt and bills
Your charge card
balances are rising while your income is decreasing.
You are only paying the
minimum amounts required on your accounts, or maybe even less
than the minimums.
You're juggling debt &
bills. For example, you apply for another card and use cash
advances from it to pay an existing charge card.
You have more cards than
a successful gambler has poker chips
You are at or perilously
near the limit on each of your credit cards.
You consistently charge
more each month than you make in payments.
You are working overtime
to keep up with your department store card payments.
You don't know how much
your balance is and really don't want to find out.
You have received phone
calls or letters about delinquent debt payments.
You are using your card
to buy necessities like food or gasoline.
Your cards are no longer
used for the sake of convenience, but because you don't have
money.
You are dipping into
savings or your IRA to pay your monthly debt.
You are hiding the true
expense of your purchases from your spouse.
You're playing the
credit card game by signing up for every department store card
that sends you an unsolicited offer.
You have just lost your
job, or are fearful that you are about to, and are concerned
about how you will pay all your debt & bills.
If you have the
unfortunate circumstance of realizing you relate to the above
signs don't panic you have options. Speak with a money
counseling or debt & bills advisor, most will give you a free
consultation and a quote. locate an institution to consolidate
charge card debt
