topic Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt in Debt management

Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

MariP — Wed, 21 Nov 2018 19:17:12 GMT

Our Turbo blog recently published an article highlighting the top reasons why people are in debt along with suggested fixes and next steps.

The five categories include:

Not using a budget or trying to track spending
Lacking an emergency fund
Borrowing money for college
Using credit cards as a clutch
Incoming is lower than expenses

Can you relate and have you gone into debt for any of these reasons?

If so, where are you on your debt journey?

People go into debt everyday for a number of different reasons and whether you’re looking for advice or you’ve been through it yourself, we would love to hear from you.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Carl — Sat, 08 Sep 2018 22:43:25 GMT

If I may contribute to this thread:

Getting out of debt, regardless of just how deep in debt you may be, is a six step process. I've also included 3 additional steps for building wealth, once the first five steps are completed. Basically, steps 7, 8 and 9 are done pretty much in unison with each other.

Step 1 - STOP DIGGING! If you really want to get out of debt, then the absolute first thing you must do is stop digging that debt hole deeper by acquiring more debt. That means cut up all the credits cards. All of them. No exceptions. Now keep the debit cards, as they won't work for you if you don't have the cash in the account they are tied to. But the credit cards have to go.

Step 2 - List all of your debts smallest to largest. Ignore interest rates. They flat out don't matter really, for what you're doing to reach the desired end goal. Do not include your mortgage in this list. However, if you have an "equity loan" commonly referred to as a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) then do include that in your list.

Step 3 - Put into a savings account, a $1000 "emergency fund". What's the definition of an emergency fund? Simple. If not using that $1000 means that you will be eating your next meal out of the dumpster behind the neighborhood McDonalds, and sleeping that night in a cardboard box behind that dumpster, then you have a valid emergency. Anything less is not an emergency.

Step 4 - Stop ALL contributions to any and all retirement accounts. Understand that this is not forever. It's only for the short term so you can use that money to pay off your debt.

Step 5 -Take a look at that list you made in step 2. You start with the smallest debt first. Make the absolute minimum payments on all other debts, then throw every single remaining penny you can scrape together at that smallest debt. Once that debt is paid off, the second smallest debt now becomes the 1st smallest debt.

Now that the first debt is paid off and that payment doesn't exist anymore, you have even more money to throw at your "new" smallest debt, thus paying it off sooner than you may have thought possible.

Now there is one exception for step 5 here. If you owe the IRS back taxes, I don't care where they may fall in your list of smallest to largest. You pay off the IRS *first*, no matter what. You don't need that monkey on your back, as if the IRS comes after you, they will not give up - even after you die they'll go after any assets you have, and they *will* get their money before your heirs get anything.

Step 6 - Build your $1000 emergency fund to 3 to 6 months of living expenses. Just exactly how much you need, depends on your situation. But at a minimum you should have at least 3 months of living expenses in a savings account or other investment that you or your family can get to "quickly" should anything happen to you and you are unable to work.

Step 7 - Reestablish contributions to your retirement account(s). For most, they reach this step within 5 years of starting this process.

Step 8 - If you have kids or believe you will in the future, time to start the college fund.

Step 9 - Use all excess money to pay off the house, if you have a mortgage. Generally when a family/person who owns a house reaches this step, if they have a 30 year mortgage they have on average, 22 years left on that mortgage. Simply doubling your house payment means that on average, you will pay off that mortgage in 7 years, give or take depending on the interest rate. I've known some who paid off their mortgage in less than 3 years.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Will — Mon, 10 Sep 2018 21:18:39 GMT

I strongly agree with the first challenge it has been a poor habit on my part

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

MariP — Fri, 14 Sep 2018 17:18:43 GMT

Hi ,

Would love to hear more about your journey. When you mentioned the first challenge in your message, are you referring to 's suggestion to stop digging?

Cutting back on spending can be tough for a number of different reasons. Anything specific that you feel has been tough for you to stick to that habit?

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Carl — Fri, 14 Sep 2018 17:41:21 GMT

I strongly agree with the first challenge...

It's not a challenge really. It's the first step. If you look at it as a "challenge", chances are fairly high you will lose that challenge. Instead of calling it a challenge, call it what it really is.... a commitment.

If you can't commit to step 1, everything after is a waste of time and a moot point.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Cob — Sat, 03 Nov 2018 12:58:41 GMT

Soo... Dave Ramsey's Total Money Makeover? I'm not saying it doesn't work, but give credit where credit is due.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Carl — Sun, 04 Nov 2018 00:43:39 GMT

Cob,

Worked for me, and for several friends of mine I referred as long as 5 years ago while I was on my journey to being debt free. For me, it was well worth 3-5 years of sacrifice for a lifetime of what I refer to as "financial peace". If I were to die today, my wife's standard of living will continue on with the only change being that I'm no longer in it. For me, that's real peace.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

wiredjack — Sat, 17 Nov 2018 16:58:22 GMT

My Family debt freedom journey started Jan 2016. 116k in debt and a 1 year old . Student loans, credit cards, personal loans from past attempts. As of today, no new debt gained outside the cost of home births, and one major medical event. We are great at not taking on new debt. Even paid off one of two cars. Our struggle is not sticking to a budget but finding numbers for our now family of 3 kids and 2 adults that are practical to our situation. I mentioned a paid off car. We wanted 33% of that now gone car payment for a class and the rest for our debt plan. We are a single income family and I make 95k per year and have always gone up about 3% a year. We stopped the 401k. The value of our home in 2016 was 140k. Today with no actions of our own it's now at 216k on Zillow. I still owe 102k on my home and 50k to student loans a personal loan and one car. Change nothing and surly will be debt free in 2020. Get serious and I bet we could pay off our debt in 1 year leaving mortgage as the only debt. Could also try and sell our home now (houses in my hood last 1-2 months when up for sale) and have no debt and I'm guessing about 10k in the bank to get started. We do have a mix of 401k, Roth, Roth/IRA worth about 45k. My wife and I are 31 and 35. Our kids are 4 months, 2 year 6 months and 4 year 5 month old. We crave a vacation and financial freedom but oddly enough as far as we have come still can't operate a frugal budget.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Gloria45 — Wed, 21 Nov 2018 10:53:03 GMT

Credit cards

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

CourtCourtGO — Thu, 29 Nov 2018 19:38:08 GMT

Hey ! Great post! thanks for the transparency! I resonate with where you are in life as I am in a similar situation. In fact, seeing how old you are, with kids and what your debt range is gives me the ability to really trust where you are coming from as I am 35 and have two kids and a mortage. Do you think this would be helpful knowledge to have as you look for advice from others?

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

candco02 — Tue, 04 Dec 2018 01:40:54 GMT

Incoming is lower than expenses

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Dileep — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 14:16:59 GMT

You should plan accordingly try to use this formula Income -Investment= Expenses..

When you get an income you must first invest and then remaining amount you can you it for your expenses.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

sjsharksgirl86 — Mon, 17 Dec 2018 09:51:42 GMT

On this list,

I am currently in school and therefore have student loans. I can't make any payments as I am in school phase but I try to make interest payments here and there.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

vlg1957 — Tue, 18 Dec 2018 04:47:49 GMT

How can i get control over my debt. how to make it go away. Where can I put all my payments into one payment...

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

55555 — Mon, 07 Jan 2019 13:10:26 GMT

good

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

55555 — Mon, 07 Jan 2019 13:10:46 GMT

not in debt

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

7827 — Tue, 15 Jan 2019 01:24:08 GMT

I am a college student -- I am also on SSDI -- disability. I am also 63 years old. I will start working from home when I finish college in 2 years at a job that pays me quite well because of my degree -- a much better income than before Disability. And in addition, I will be able to still collect $1,050.00 in Social Security Benefits -- as I will be of retirement age when I graduate. But I will also have student loans to pay back. That's the reason I am in debt. Also, I am an artist Digital Media Artist / Animator / Game Development Major who had to first study 2 years of Graphic Art & Design. A field of study that costs a lot in supplies. I have thousands of dollars worth of Art Supplies and equipment from my classes. I get reimbursed by the government at tax time but only by a fraction of what I actually spent/spend each semester. That is why I'm in debt. In this country, --- being in debt -- it is a necessary part of being a student who wasn't born wealthy.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

TD4045 — Tue, 22 Jan 2019 20:52:29 GMT

Great info! Question: I was told if something was already listed on your credit report, to let it go and do not pay it. What are your thoughts or experience with that?

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Cybill63 — Mon, 28 Jan 2019 17:17:19 GMT

I am bi polar and although I am on meds I still go through manic stages where I shop on

line. I don't do it because I need the stuff because most of the time I don't. I just can't stop myself. I am in debt because of it. I have maxed most of my credit cards and use my debit card until the money is gone. I need help.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Chrisp — Tue, 29 Jan 2019 00:21:03 GMT

Is a debt consolidation loan better than a Debt Settlement Program or vise versa? Which is better and why. They both have pros & cons

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

RO — Wed, 30 Jan 2019 02:46:45 GMT

GOOD

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

MontanezC — Sat, 02 Feb 2019 21:00:46 GMT

I have gone into debt because I have not tracked or used a budget when spending my income

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Blizzyard — Sat, 02 Feb 2019 22:16:09 GMT

Help in debt,paying off cards one at a time .Is this a good way???.Any other suggestions

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Blizzyard — Sat, 02 Feb 2019 22:22:34 GMT

That is everything I have started to do.IA that everything you suggest or is there more that I can do.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

veron77 — Mon, 04 Feb 2019 16:40:06 GMT

Thank you

Re: Featured Disctussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

veron77 — Mon, 04 Feb 2019 16:42:18 GMT

Thank you

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Adewey7141 — Tue, 05 Feb 2019 23:13:24 GMT

I would like to know what my debt is showing up on my credit report. Can you please help?

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

marykthomas — Wed, 06 Feb 2019 19:07:22 GMT

Thanks for the information..very helpful

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

CW2 — Thu, 07 Feb 2019 03:17:17 GMT

School debt is my life long burden. No other debt; only regular living expenses. Been without credit cards for nearly 8 years. I'm 61 and in the education field so have never had high income. As a single parent, I put 2 kids through college and am nearly done paying off the part of that parent debt that I was responsible for. However, my own school debt (also went back late in life) has blown up since in deferment while paying for my kids and now forbearance while I figure out how to make giant payments that are half my take home pay each month. It is a nightmare! I will go to my grave with this debt. I truly question the value of a college education because the cost is high in so many more ways than just the dollars and cents of it. It is constant stress over the loans, which started out small and have grown like monsters on steroids.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

brixoxo — Thu, 07 Feb 2019 07:03:45 GMT

I wish it was this easy!

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Charllottereynolds — Thu, 07 Feb 2019 20:48:29 GMT

I have recently gone in debt do to leaving my job about a year ago it was a unhealthy work enviroment. I found out my employer had been stealing my social security taxes off my paychecks since 2013. And now I still haven't been able to find another job. I'm fighting an uphill battle.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

coopermic — Fri, 08 Feb 2019 21:24:00 GMT

I have started doing it and it it working great for me

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Mendorod — Sat, 09 Feb 2019 03:43:37 GMT

Thank You

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

AK3 — Thu, 14 Feb 2019 01:52:56 GMT

I have Two Credit cards that total $4,500 respectively,(My only negative debt) .I was doing excellent in paying my monthly payments, But because of a drop in my income, my payments became irregular to the point I could not keep up and had no choice but to stop all together, The whole process became worrisome for me, because it is my obligation and I can't continue. My cards are Locked and no longer used.(One acct. is closed by Creditor)

My rent pyt went up, my Utility pyt went up as well as my Car insurance. This has put a dent in my monthly income. I'm a senior citizen who lives on Social Security Benefits and Alimony. I'm retired/Single/Live alone.

When I access "Overview" it shows my total Debt Amount, but then when I access the TOTAL DEBT Link it shows my Total Debt as $0. This I do not understand.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Lachesis — Thu, 14 Feb 2019 16:16:39 GMT

I'm not married, but have a long-time Significant Other. We were struggling each month to pay bills on time, and wasting a lot of money too. I knew in my head that we were making enough money to live off, as well as being able to afford a car payment, it just wasn't working out in reality.

My solution was to make a list of all the fixed bills each month - tv, internet, insurance, rent, etc. and came up with a grand total. I divided that by 4 and came up with a dollar amount needed each week to pay the basic bills. Then I took my SO to the bank and we opened up a joint checking account for bills only. We both direct deposit enough money each week from our checks to cover those bills, with the balance going into our own individual checking accounts. The money in those accounts goes for gas, groceries, savings, impulse spending.

It's surprising how easy it's been to stay on track this way. The evening before payday, I see how much is left in my individual account, and allocate half of it to erasing past debt, and the other half into my emergency savings account. We've gone from being behind every month, to caught up and saving money every month now!

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

johnpaulbrennan — Thu, 14 Feb 2019 17:57:25 GMT

how can I reinstall Turbo tax 2018

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

anthanyjmayle — Fri, 15 Feb 2019 04:42:12 GMT

gteat

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

AK3 — Fri, 15 Feb 2019 23:29:53 GMT

Hello Read this discussion,(From Visitor) regarding "Common Reasons why you May Be in Debt", and the "plan" which was set forth, After your Direct Deposit,you and your SO to pay just Bills, and with the remaining balance going into both "Individual" checking accounts, Are you also "Splitting" the Available Balance. ? Half goes in one acct and half goes in other acct?

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

AK3 — Fri, 15 Feb 2019 23:45:48 GMT

Again, I keep reading your post to see if it would work for me, And I do find it interesting to open a stand alone acct just for bills. But the last part "About "Money Left over" right before payday add it to your balance that's negative" for myself" whatever I have left after paying bills, keeps me going until maybe a day or two before payday. There is never "Money" leftover.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Kellbach — Sat, 16 Feb 2019 16:03:32 GMT

Helping family. No emergency fund

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

ddee — Tue, 19 Feb 2019 02:27:51 GMT

I currently owe about 73,000 on mortgage but have about 40,000 in cc debt, unsecured loans through my credit union and a few medical bills. Our house is valued at 230,000. Should I refi and pay off all debt? My interest rate would probably go up from the rate it is now which is 3.87% and we have about 11 years left on mortgage. Thanks

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Carl — Tue, 19 Feb 2019 05:32:55 GMT

This is my opinion, and my opinion only. I'm not saying it's best for you. I'm saying it's what I would do were I in your situation and decided at that point I wanted to get out of debt. (I've been debt free for about 10 years now.)

Lets say your CU loans and medical bills are $25K just for the purposes of "my opinion". 🙂

With $73K owed on the house, $40K in CC debt and $25K for the other stuff, that comes to $138K. I'd look at a few numbers first.

Whats the total of all my payments each month, including the house? Y0u need that "magic number" which you can get quite easily.

Once I've got that number then I'd want to look at doing a refi on the house for "no more" than $140K and I would require of myself that it be a 15 year mortgage at the absolute longest. The shorter period on the mortgage will get me a lower rate than a 30 year mortgage will. Additionally, payments on a $140K mortgage at 15 years will be damn close to (maybe less? maybe a bit more?) than my current payments on the 30 year mortgage I now how. But I'm not looking at "just" the mortgage payment I'm making now. I'm looking at the total of all payments I make each month; mortgage, CC payments, CU loan payments, medical bill payments; the whole nine yards.

Now I did a bit of work with the intrate excel program.

If I refi the house for $140K for 15 years with a 4.5% fixed interest rate, my payments (not including escrow) will be $1,070.99 a month. When you figure in escrow for the property taxes and insurance, where I live that would be about another $200 a month, absolute tops. My last property tax bill was $1,100 and my last insurance bill for the year was $857. So that's roughly $2K for the year. Figure that into escrow for 12 equal payments a month and that comes to an additional $163.10 a month added to the payment for escrow. So I'd be looking at monthly mortgage payments of $1234.09 per month. I'll play it safe and round it up to $1300 a month, since my intrate excel spreadsheet isn't perfect with a margin of error of less than 1% (which adds up fast on longer loan terms). Then knowing that property taxes do get adjusted every year, I can pretty much figure I'll have the house paid off (or close to it) before the taxes and insurance would cause my escrow payments to rise above $200 a month.

So I've got my figure of $1300 a month which is the "highest" I would expect to pay over the 15 year loan term. Now lets look at the total of all the payments I'm making now. If it's more than $1300 a month, I'm gonna do the refi with the intention of "never" getting myself into this kind of crap again. Not. Ever.

Once the re-fi is done and all the debts are paid, I'm going to spend however long it takes to use my "savings" realized from lower payments on all that debt I paid off, to build myself an emergency fund of no less than three months of living expenses. Generally though, I recommend anywhere between 3 and 6 months of living expenses. That way, if you lose your job or end up unable to work for "any" reason, you've got a bit of breathing room while you seek other sources of income.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Tjkrista1 — Sun, 24 Feb 2019 21:45:52 GMT

Looking for software to help budget bills and improve credit score

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Negg13 — Mon, 25 Feb 2019 00:58:10 GMT

I am a firm believer of using a common composition book in which I create 4 columns to track my budget. I use the margin to list incoming finances, tithes/offering, savings, auto debited “bills” then leave a few spaces and list the manually debited ones.

Within the 1st column are the absolute necessities ie.. mortgage, electric, gas, water, sewage, care note, credit card, savings, household shopping/groceries ...
2nd column miscellaneous items ie. fast food, movies, traveling beyond work (extra gas expense), cleaners, extra grocery store trips), gifts...
3rd column I carry over the total of unnecessary money that was spent for accountability and awareness...know where it went to and why...
4th column for my other account that I use for the kids college/allowance, mother, family, car insurance, credit card...

I do have two credit cards but I have my sons in one since they are in Grad school and undergrad school for consolidation of their exspenses then I may deduct it from their college fund in which we still put into each month or make payments on the card which builds their credit as well; but it’s only for their schooling, travel, car repairs if they need it.

My other card is for my truck repairs, medical items/bills, and travels so that I don’t deplete my savings but never shopping.

Accountability and responsibility is necessary when having credit cards but they aren’t the devil...use wisely and account for your money 🙏🏽🙌🏽💞

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Negg13 — Tue, 26 Feb 2019 00:46:51 GMT

, in reading your post it seemed to relay your frustrations. You and your wife seem to be in a financially blessed position with the one income. I am in a position where a recent medical event has unemployed my husband who was also the spender of the house. I am more disciplined and it has put me in a great position to take care of every financial need with MY oldest in Graduate school and MY youngest son in College. Yes mine, because with or without my spouse me and their father are the responsible party.

I implore you to “write the vision and make it plain.” I do it every month with a .50 composition book and I cringe when I see how much money is/has been misused...I get back on track and create moments until the vacation is a reality. I wish you all well and you have the discipline to reign it in...🙏🏽🙌🏽👍🏽

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

ldw2nd — Tue, 26 Feb 2019 17:44:14 GMT

I can soooo relate! I'm a dancer & musician/music producer that also has a visual art background.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Bakerman1 — Fri, 01 Mar 2019 16:51:16 GMT

Started using common sense and took all priorities and put them in order and the end of the list was eliminated and paying off debt became a big priority. Started living below my means. Once debt was paid off stayed out of debt and made the priority to save.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Texan1 — Fri, 01 Mar 2019 17:56:55 GMT

This may not be the way for everyone, but it worked for me.

We were over $95K in credit card debt, and life was not good.

I purchased a tape program explaining how to get out from under the card debt, and I followed it to the letter.

I quit paying the cards.

Approx. 90-120 days later the calls started coming.

I told not to call after 8 PM, and I was always polite (they're just doing their jobs), but I made sure they didn't harass me.

After a while they started to make offers of reduced payoffs. I made counter offers (I was very lucky that I had someone that I could turn to that fronted me the money at no interest), and it was amazing what cc companies would accept or the collection agencies.

In the end, I paid off all debt for less than $40K.

Our credit score went down to 500-600, and credit reports were dinged for almost seven years.

We changed our lifestyle, our credit reports are super clean, and our scores are 820+.

Recommend that you do this yourself since companies would rather deal with you than an outside source that will charge the hell out you to do what you can do.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

anwrak — Fri, 01 Mar 2019 18:56:18 GMT

When my wife and I were first becoming established as adults we had racked a decent amount of student loan debt. As time when on neither of us had well paying jobs and we found ourselves relying on credit cards and credit lines from our credit union to make ends meet. Of course we often found that we couldn't make all these payments as scheduled and took many dings on our credit reports because of 30/60/90 day late pays. In 2010 my wife and I decided we were had progressed in our careers far enough we could afford a house payment.

We visited with a mortgage company and were denied because of bad credit, both of us being in the 500s, mostly because of high usage on credit cards and late pays. Armed with this information we made a concerted effort to pay all of our credit payments on time and to not use our credit cards. In a year we had successfully payed our balances down enough to get us into approval range.

Around the time we bought our first house we still had quite a lot of credit card, student loan, and auto loan debt and struggled to keep track of where our money was going. I stumbled across Mint, signed up, and added all my accounts. Armed with this holistic view of our finances we were able to make smarter decisions about what we buy and even started budgeting to a certain extent. I will admit that we still don't budget as well but I've been trying to utilize what's available in Mint for budgeting with some success.

Because of the better overall view of our finances we were finally able to start saving some money and over the next several years had a pretty decent nest egg in a saving account earning little to no interest. In 2016 I read a blog posting by Dave Ramsey about his "7 Baby Steps" to reducing debt. Again, I'll admit I don't follow them to the T, but we used the bulk of our saving to pay off our remaining student loans. This freed up several hundred dollars a month in income that had previously been loan payments. Using the "debt snowball" we made much larger payments against our existing credit debt. Because we continue to buy cars ever couple of years and it seems like something expensive is happening to a house, car, or medically, we are still debt snowballing, however even with this debt we are continuing to make headway against our debt and every year we have less and less. Additionally, because of this, we are in a much better place to make our payments and both of us now have 800+ credit scores.

In summary, watch what you are spending and reduce unneeded expenses. Track your incoming and outgoing income with something like Mint. Budgeting was hard for me because I like buying expensive electronics but I realized that we were overspending on thing we didn't need. When you can, using Dave Ramsey's baby steps are a great guideline for paying down existing debt. Finally, don't expect changes overnight, we've been working on it for 8 years at this point. I'm an impatient person so this was one of the hardest parts. Things started off really slow but the changes are incremental and good habits will eventually pay off.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Anderson503s — Fri, 01 Mar 2019 20:01:39 GMT

I chose to go into debt with a vehicle loan to buy a vehicle I absolutely love. Otherwise it's careful planning and budgeting and hope I don't forget something in the process!

I do have some money squirreled away as a last resort and emergency. My 401K and Vested Benefits also are a priority. One step at a time. I'll get there!

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

MoMasha — Sat, 02 Mar 2019 00:40:44 GMT

I got my first credit card very young. I had no direction or guidance and with new responsibilities comes brand new consequences. Being older and needing good credit has been a struggle because I now have to answer to those mistakes I made as a young adult.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Oreo — Sat, 02 Mar 2019 01:06:09 GMT

I am in debt and can’t get out - it’s so hard. My income wasn’t the greatest until recently and house repairs and purchases sometimes groceries went on credit cards - I took a few loans to pay some off but didn’t budget correctly because I didn’t have enough to live on - it is a horrible cycle and I hope I can get sometime soon.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Bren — Sat, 02 Mar 2019 16:29:56 GMT

Hello everyone! I made a decision to be debt free at the end of 2018. I made it! After having been in the hospital 2 times in 2014 with a costs to us of $11,500. and remodeling a house we were really in debt at the cost of $27000. We also had to charge appliances, auto repair, etc. that we just didn't have cash for. A lot of people do not in this day and age. I decided this had to stop. I have always had some sort of budget. I would put whatever I had left from my check in the back of my checkbook. I could use this for a much needed mini va-ca.

I really just stopped charging!!!!! I would pay a small one off and take that money each month and put it towards another one. I sure did use a lot of money in the last 6 months of 2018. I started using my SS to help pay them off. It was hard, I could see other things I wanted to buy, but I didn't. It was like a heavy burden lifted from me. I have charged a couple of hundred since. Paying them off as they come in. Such a relief. Now, if I keep working and need to buy another car, I will be able to do that. Hang in there! If I can do it, so can you!!

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

JS81 — Sun, 03 Mar 2019 01:22:35 GMT

I work to pay my bills. I am widowed as of 2014. I was able to get out of debt and had credit cards after my spouse passed away, but once I no longer had roommates I had to pay for everything on my own I realized I had been living out of a reasonable amount of debt. Since then my credit cards and charge cards have all gone to collections. I cannot pay them off because no matter how much I budget I still struggle.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Dad-the-provider — Wed, 06 Mar 2019 15:40:04 GMT

Not using a budget and not having an emergency fund I am just now starting

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

charlotte 1 — Fri, 08 Mar 2019 22:59:55 GMT

i am not in debt . Have owned my home free and clear for 25 years. Pay crd card in full monthly. advise to you . use common sense

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

J-weezy80 — Sun, 10 Mar 2019 05:49:07 GMT

Don't know why I keep getting rejected

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

FFPPSSLLC — Sat, 23 Mar 2019 19:11:25 GMT

We cut back bc we HAD to, then we ADAPTED. We were scammed by a “bill consolidation program” (in 2012, with government backing, non-the-less) they took all of our debt & contacts, so for 2 yrs we paid in $10k, thinking they were settling our debt, until the Sheriff came to the door. Our credit scores went from 720 to...I couldn’t even look. Not only did we lose what we paid into it, BUT the scam leaves u unable to afford to do anything about it. We cut up the credit cards, sold our home, paid cash for a foreclosed home that sat for 2 years with the proceeds, set up automatic payment programs with all the accounts in collections, still paying on 1, and did everything we could to scrape by. We never even applied for government assistance, well, bc that was the scam’s end game. The sheriff told us he delivered 5 more notices regarding the same scam that day. When I say, we did everything, I mean sold all our valuables, scrapped metal for groceries, had yard sales & worked hard, 2 jobs each. We’ve worked really hard to rebuild our credit, not having any loans or credit cards actually hurt our number. Our score went down when we paid our vehicle loan off, but I followed Turbo recommendations to build it back up. You asked, how did we cut back & this is our story. Believe me, it’s not easy, but our son has learned the true value of a dollar & every way to save one.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Parker406 — Sun, 24 Mar 2019 00:58:42 GMT

Am i able to file bankruptcy by chance?

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Rubiesuzy — Sun, 24 Mar 2019 19:11:06 GMT

I’m older now and see clearly that getting in debt is Devils claws that keep you from living a better life. Stuff will not make you happy. Debt free will.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

MathTeacher — Sun, 24 Mar 2019 22:53:33 GMT

I agree with you except when the reason you are in debt is due to emergency medical bills like trips to the emergency room, followed by emergency hernia surgery, lost time off work etc. Those are things you just can't "quit".

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Kkirton91 — Tue, 26 Mar 2019 00:55:30 GMT

Im in debt because of going in jail one year and a few years later went back to jail then straight to prison. So while I was sitting in there my bills kept reaccurring and calculating up while I had no way of contacting any body to put a hold on accounts

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

AK3 — Tue, 26 Mar 2019 05:46:32 GMT

Hello

Just finished reading your how you were scammed by an Debt Consolidation Program. I don't know that much about Debt Consolidation. I do know many years ago my ex and I did two Debt Consolidation. They paid our debt and we paid the company It was done quickly. Just one pyt each month to the (Debt C.) company The other option was we gave the Debt C. Company the name and acct number of our creditors, They wrote/fill in the checks , Then gave to us to mail or or give personally to the creditor.. Didn't your creditors contact you within that two year period that "Where's our money" Late pyts etc If they never got consolidated then I would assume they were never paid.You had to get Phone calls letters, pay up or going to a debt collector. Credit reports show balance etc. Within the 2 years if your credit report showed no activity.. I would be concerned. I'm just trying to figure out if the debt consolidation program never paid your debt why the creditors did not contact you. It only takes a short time to settle with a creditor. through debt consolidation. Also if you were not getting any updates from the Credit Consolidation company or statements regarding your account. That's a Red Flag. I just have a hard time understanding that $10,000 was put out in two years,,Did you get receipts, Did you keep a paper trail?

Yes tell your son Not only look straight ahead but look at all directions, "You never know what's going on in the background. In and around you.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

FFPPSSLLC — Wed, 27 Mar 2019 00:45:11 GMT

We didn’t get the letters of calls, when we signed up, the debt solutions company took over all contact with the creditors bc they were supposed to be renegotiating the debt, so, no I didn’t know until the Sheriff came for 1 account. They paid off little accounts in the first year, we got those receipts from the service, but they they were “trying to work with creditors to get us a reasonable settlement” I KNOW, I was incredibly stupid, but we were desperate for a solution & thought a government backed program would be best.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

FFPPSSLLC — Wed, 27 Mar 2019 00:52:34 GMT

Yes, btw we got monthly statements, they were divided up into amounts being saved per each account to be paid off. So, we paid them, they reach a settlement amount, set up a pay off amount which our payments were added to each month, but they never actually got a settlement agreement. It was a perfect scam, bc by the time creditors go to a legal route, we were to broke, credit destroyed & unable to afford a lawsuit. As soon as the Sheriff came to the door, I called them ASAP & told them, by the next day, their phone line was dead. We took a everything to 2 lawyers.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Lube 1333 — Thu, 28 Mar 2019 17:25:09 GMT

My debt on credit cards resulted from a need to seek reversal of my wife’s painful Pancreatic Cancer which lead to her death in 2005. I tried in the US & in Germany. Had to use my credit cards! Seeing her suffer was horrible. My credit score was no issue or of concern to me. Now, there r reversal methods which doctors did not share in 2005.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Lindsey_mcdonald8 — Thu, 04 Apr 2019 07:43:07 GMT

I turned 30 this year and finally paid off my only credit card. I have a couple medical bills but my debt is my student loans. About $24,000 worth. I deferred after graduation and am still able to based on income. I got a new job and I’m afraid with my income now, I will have to start paying on them. It’s not that I don’t want to, but my income increased just enough to afford health insurance, where before I wasn’t covered (thus the medical bill debt).

Is debt consolidation a thing when it comes to student loans? I’m wondering since I took out both subsidized and unsubsidized loans each year, if combining them (or at least the ones with the high interest rate) with debt consolidation company for a lower interest rate is even possible?

I’m curious as to how people pay off student loans when they are stretched so thin anyway. I have a budget I stick to very strictly and I apply to multiple jobs daily, and like I said, I’ve been able to find a job with a little higher pay, but it’s still not enough. I don’t have a car payment, I don’t have a cell phone contract, I rent a room and just pay a flat rate for board and utilities. Even if I wanted to spend my money, I work too much to go do it.

I don’t know enough about debt/student loans to know the best option for me. I will say that I do put 5% of paycheck into 401K because my company matches up to 5% and I haven’t saved at all for my retirement yet. Should I stop allocating that 5%, or half maybe?, toward 401k and redirect that money to my loans? Seems like the only solution if debt consolidation with lower monthly payment is not an option.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

MikeCopper — Sat, 06 Apr 2019 04:39:43 GMT

Super Carl - looks like you're quoting Dave Ramsey - if folks need help they should load his APP or listen to his free advise on youtube etc......

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

e7sara — Sat, 06 Apr 2019 21:42:47 GMT

Commitment may still have a negative feeling attached to it allowing you to begrudge it. Try thinking of it as an Opportunity to do something that will definitely improve the quality of your life and it's tangible. You can measure your progress as you go. Seeing positive results, even small ones, is a huge motivator for me.

Thank you for considering my thoughts. Hope someone finds this idea helpful.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Carl — Sun, 07 Apr 2019 00:07:37 GMT

I'm a big Dave Ramsey fan. First started listening to him back in 2000-2001. With the exception of mortgages, have been debt free since 2006 or so. Best friend I ever had. Prior to becoming debt free I had my primary residence and 3 rentals with a mortgage on it all. Got one of the rental mortgages paid off back in 2014 or 15 and working my next one now - smallest to largest just like Dave advises.

My biggest financial complaint now, is all the junk mail I get offering me tens of thousands in credit and loans at super-low rates. I don't need to borrow money anymore. But I'll be happy to loan money at a fair rate, provided it's secured by some kind of collateral. 🙂

A few weeks ago I got a phone call from someone claiming to be with the small business administration (I'm self-employed) and wanting to loan me money. That call didn't last long when I asked them how much they were going to pay me to use their money instead of my own. I think we both had a good laugh.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

tarheella-france — Tue, 09 Apr 2019 03:55:33 GMT

The steps work if you put forth the sincere effort. My concern and question is if I stop my retirement contributions that would raise my take home pay? What ideas do you have so that I will not owe federal and state taxes in an effort to pay off my debts? Certainly would appreciate a reply.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

JAB2019 — Tue, 09 Apr 2019 23:15:44 GMT

I didn't see listed what I think is a common reoccurring factor that another frequent reason is individuals having children way too early in there lives. There are people with kids who haven't established themselves as adults, and successfully obtained being able to self sustain. Often in these situations the bulk of the responsibility ends up landing on the grandparents. A lot of these young parents are unemployed, government assisted, and file to receive considerable returns by claiming kids that the government provided for, and done after going a whole year without contributing a single tax dollar.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

JAB2019 — Tue, 09 Apr 2019 23:37:04 GMT

Stealing your social security taxes? Has there been any legal action? I don't see how he could have hid that from the IRS. You have to pay into social security. I had a 1099 one year, because I was young, and was unaware of the fact I was going to be filed as a contracted worker. I didn't owe any federal, or state taxes, but did end up having to pay some social security tax I owed for my accrued income that wasn't taxed. I was only with the company for three months which worked to my benefit, and fortunately only ended up owing fifty something dollars for social security. My point is that if nothing else, they are going to get that from you.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Unhappy Person — Wed, 10 Apr 2019 14:54:51 GMT

Our problems are ours. How we handle them is our business.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

bellamia — Fri, 12 Apr 2019 02:42:46 GMT

I appreciate the steps that Carl shared. My question and concern about cutting up all credit cards is two-fold. One, while it would not have me sleeping in a box, if my washing machine died (for example) and I had to buy a new one, I would not have enough cash on hand to buy it. While it is not a 'sleep in a cardboard box type of emergency, having clean close to wear to my job is important. And laundromats are not cost-effective over time. It is an example of something I would feel the need to replace to keep my life on track. So keeping a card active for that kind of emergency would seem wise. Two, I've read that closing credit cards will negatively impact our credit score. And to stop using them, which will cause them to go dormant produces the same effect, I think.

I wholeheartedly agree that credit cards are one of the biggest problems contributing to our mounting debt. And, if one has spent down their savings, and using their income to pay off debt, how do we buy the necessities that are before the cardboard box and not nonessentials like a 65" screen tv or a trip to Hawaii, but things we can all live without.

looking for ideas...

Michelle

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

debbie7 — Fri, 12 Apr 2019 13:26:46 GMT

I spend and don’t keep up with what I spend

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

debbie7 — Fri, 12 Apr 2019 13:28:30 GMT

I already did

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Ice — Fri, 12 Apr 2019 16:05:57 GMT

Medical, School loans, car, savings just doesn't cover expenses!

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Lovemyrosie — Fri, 12 Apr 2019 21:29:19 GMT

Thank you

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Ap — Sat, 13 Apr 2019 01:37:21 GMT

Lifted straight off of Dave Ramsey, so please give credit where it's due.

I'd also like to include that you may want to tithe/give to charities.

Also, cut WAY back on eating out/fast-food, etc. It's soooo expensive. You can make good, cheap, and even ready-to heat meals at home for "pennies."

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

No comment — Sat, 13 Apr 2019 22:08:27 GMT

No comment

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt No comment

No comment — Sat, 13 Apr 2019 22:09:33 GMT

No comment

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Flygal — Sun, 14 Apr 2019 06:56:22 GMT

I used the app debt free. You list all your bills, ( cc, car payment, mortgage, etc) dates due, how much you owe, payment amount each month and it can generate reports on when you will be debt free! And it’s free!

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

EHD — Mon, 15 Apr 2019 07:01:18 GMT

Good ole' debt snowball!!

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Success not an accident — Tue, 16 Apr 2019 23:12:54 GMT

Carl's steps are the same a Dave Ramsey's Baby Steps. Go figure.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

MoneyMike — Fri, 19 Apr 2019 18:06:44 GMT

Sorry but you did things completely wrong. You should look up Dave Ramsey. I’ve been debt-free for almost 3 years now so trust me, I know what I’m talking about.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

AK3 — Sun, 21 Apr 2019 07:39:48 GMT

Hello

Yes, desperation can send you in different directions, It does it scary.. What you went through should have never happened. It would have better if you filed a Bankruptcy,

FYI: Call BBB...

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

RicK P — Mon, 22 Apr 2019 16:27:46 GMT

For the record, in Step 9, "doubling" your house payment/mortgage simply means paying one month's additional "principle". It doesn't mean you have to double the entire payment each month. Most loans allow you to do this. Check with your bank. If they don't allow you to do this, get a different bank! Plain and simple. It really works.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

hargisP1 — Sun, 28 Apr 2019 21:17:13 GMT

Your so called credit report has wrong information for me. It shows I have debt and a loan which is false. And Turbo Tax has screwed up my taxes three years in a row. BYE>

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Perez — Tue, 30 Apr 2019 16:10:51 GMT

OK so I do have a car payment of 430.00 and I did have the money but its not where I put it..I don't loose things often but it gone! Other than that I don't believe I have any more debts. If I do I then I will find out. This my response back on this statement..Thank You! 😉

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

dggary — Fri, 10 May 2019 23:45:39 GMT

just let me finish my return

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

dggary — Fri, 10 May 2019 23:46:46 GMT

stop

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Alison — Sat, 11 May 2019 09:26:33 GMT

Good concise reasons that everyone should be able to understand and implement.
Thanks, Turbo.

Sincerely,
Alison D. Gilbert, The Credit Card Maven
https://www.facebook.com/CreditCardMaven/

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Alison — Sat, 11 May 2019 09:28:34 GMT

Fantastic!

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Tennman — Wed, 15 May 2019 01:53:55 GMT

My credit report may be better ifTurbo Tax would return my $98.00 when an accident happened and I hit the pay before any application of monies and you denied my refund after I had to file through another co. Before the deadline.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Moshe Strugano — Fri, 07 Jun 2019 10:03:35 GMT

Well many professional, writers, bloggers discuss about it. Lots of tips and tricks are pointed out all over the place, however, its important to know the right way to get out of debt and live a happy life.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Gone81 — Tue, 08 Oct 2019 23:00:08 GMT

I did not receive my tax return

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

si55 — Fri, 25 Oct 2019 20:54:40 GMT

Get in touch with your student loan servicer and ask about an income driven payment plan.

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

si55 — Fri, 25 Oct 2019 21:01:57 GMT

While you're not working, get on an income based payment plan thru your student loan provider. You are an inspiration, 63 and going to college, plus your graphic art work!!

Re: Featured Discussion: Common Reasons You May Be in Debt

Grateful55 — Sat, 09 Nov 2019 17:48:45 GMT

We have a debt based system so we will never be outa debt in this country or in our homes