Going Debt Free

Sometimes you are struggling under such a mountain of debt that you find it impossible to know how to go Debt Free. But you can start becoming debt free through tackling your debts, such as by:

1: Knowing Your Debts – The first step on the road to going debt free is facing how much debt you actually have. It can be easy to sweep debts under the carpet so you don’t truly know your level of debt.

Work out exactly who your creditors are and how much you owe then and also understand what the interest rates are on each of the debts. Now you can work out how long it will take you to complete your goal of going debt free is, if you paid off a certain amount each month.

2: Having a Debt Free Goal – Once you understand your debts it is important that you set yourself achievable goals, so you can feel more in control as you watch your debt levels decrease.

The right goal for you is dependant on your level of debt. For example, you might want to be debt free in 60 months through an IVA or you might aim to pay more than the minimum amount off your credit card debt.

Whatever your debt free goal is, make sure that going debt free is achievable and you stick to it.

3: Control your outgoings – Aiming towards a debt free lifestyle does not mean that you have to cut out all of life’s luxuries. But you should also remember that the daily treats soon add up; think about the £6 a day you spend on lunch when you could make the same for £1. This simple change could save you £115 a month (based on 23 working days). Using this extra cash to pay off your credit card debt or loans could mean that you are debt free much quicker than you think.

4: Are you entitled to more? – According to recent figures, millions of pounds worth of Government benefits money go unclaimed each year. It is worth finding out if you are entitled to additional benefits.

Even as an employee you should be aware of company benefits, as you could be entitled to a cheaper or free eye test.

5: Plan ahead – Generally saving money whilst you are in debt is not a good idea, as the amount of interest you earn on your savings will not cover the amount of interest being added to your debt.

However, if you plan ahead then you could save yourself money. For example, keeping money aside for Christmas means that you won’t have to get yourself into more debt because you cannot afford presents, and booking train tickets in advance could also save you money.

6: Don’t be afraid of Debt Advice – There is debt advice out there which is designed as a way to help you to become Debt Free. No matter what your level of debt, chances are there is a debt solution out there which could help you by reducing your minimum creditor payments.Seeking debt advice is in important step in going debt free.

Note: Advice is free, but fees are charaged should we provide you with a debt solution.