When it comes to debt, there are two types of people: those who have been in over their heads and had to scramble to get out, and those who are blissfully ignorant of the possibility that something like that could ever happen to them. For the first group, unmanageable debt is a very real and pressing problem. For the second group, it’s a nightmare scenario they hope never comes true. But the fact is, unmanageable debt can happen to anyone. If you find yourself struggling with unmanageable debt, here are some steps you can take to get back on track.
Filing For Bankruptcy
The first and most drastic step you can take if you find yourself struggling with unmanageable debt is to file for bankruptcy. This should be a last resort, as it will have a significant negative impact on your credit score and your ability to get credit in the future. But if you’re buried under a mountain of debt that you can’t see any way out of, bankruptcy may be your best option. The things you can do to improve your credit after bankruptcy are limited, but it’s not impossible to get your score back up over time.
Credit Counseling and Debt Management Plans
If you’re not quite ready to give up and file for bankruptcy, there are other options available to you. One is to enroll in a credit counseling or debt management program. These programs can help you get a handle on your debt and develop a plan to pay it off. They can also negotiate with your creditors to get them to lower your interest rates or waive late fees. However, these programs will typically require you to close all of your credit accounts, which could hurt your credit score in the short term.
Debt Settlement
Another option available to you if you’re struggling with unmanageable debt is to try to settle your debts for less than you owe. This can be a difficult process, and it’s not always successful. But if you’re able to negotiate a settlement, you may be able to get out of debt for less than you owe. This will also hurt your credit score, but it may be worth it if you’re unable to make progress on your own. And, as with bankruptcy, there are things you can do to improve your credit after a debt settlement.
Making a Budget and Cutting Expenses
If you’re not ready to take such drastic measures, there are still things you can do to get your debt under control. One is to make a budget and stick to it. This will help you see where your money is going and where you can cut back. You may be surprised how much money you can save by making small changes to your spending habits. Another option is to consolidate your debts into one monthly payment. This can make it easier to keep track of your payments and make progress on paying off your debt.
Whatever option you choose, getting out of unmanageable debt is going to take time and effort. But it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. There are resources and options available to help you get back on track. And with a little help, you can get out of debt and move on with your life.