Persistent problems paying debt and
bills 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 look for help from
a money counseling when . . ."
It may sound like a clowning routine
opener, but for lots of people it's definitely not a laughing
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 losing weight, 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 fifteen instances that could
indicate that your balances are getting the better of you and
that credit counseling might help.. locate an institution to
consolidate card debt
Your credit 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 and bills. For
example, you apply for another department store card and use
cash advances from it to pay an existing credit card.
You have more charge cards than a
successful gambler has poker chips
You are at or perilously near the limit
on each of your cards.
You systematically charge more each
month than you make in payments.
You are working overtime to keep up with
your card payments.
You don't know how much your ballance is
and really don't want to find out.
You have received phone calls or letters
about delinquent bills payments.
You are using your credit card to buy
necessities like food or gasoline.
Your credit 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 and bills.
You are hiding the true expense of your
purchases from your spouse.
You're playing the credit card game by
signing up for every charge 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 realting to this don't panic you have options. Speak with a
credit counseling or debt & bills advisor, most will give you
a free consultation and a quote. locate an institution to
consolidate department store card bills
