Persistent problems paying bills or over
spending mean it may be time to call for help. Here are the
warning signs -- and what to do about them.
"You know you need to get help from a
money counseling when . . ."
It may sound like a drollery routine
opener, but for lots of people it's definitely not a laughing
matter. Many who are weighed down with debt & bills opt first
for self-help, trimming back on spending and keeping a close
eye on bills. 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 money counseling might help.. locate an institution to
consolidate department store card debt & bills
Your 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. For example, you
apply for another credit card and use cash advances from it to
pay an existing department store card.
You have more department store cards
than a successful gambler has poker chips
You are at or perilously near the limit
on each of your credit 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 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 charge 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.
If you have the unfortunate circumstance
of realizing you relate to the above signs don't panic you
have choices. Speak with a credit counseling or debt advisor,
most will give you a free consultation and a quote. locate an
institution to consolidate card bills
