Persistent problems paying debt & 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 debt counseling when . . ."
It may sound like a comedy routine
opener, but for lots of people it's definitely not a laughing
matter. Many who are weighed down with 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 debt counseling might help.. locate an institution to
consolidate charge card bills
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 bills. For example, you
apply for another card and use cash advances from it to pay an
existing credit card.
You have more credit cards than a
successful gambler has poker chips
You are at or perilously near the limit
on each of your department store cards.
You systematically charge more each
month than you make in payments.
You are working overtime to keep up with
your charge 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 debt & bills payments.
You are using your credit card to buy
necessities like food or gasoline.
Your charge 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 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 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 bills.
If you have the unfortunate circumstance
of realizing you relate to the above signs don't panic you
have choices. Speak with a money counseling or bills advisor,
most will give you a free consultation and a quote. locate an
institution to consolidate credit card debt and bills
