To reduce your debt with a poor credit history, you have several options. While none will solve your credit problems overnight, they can help you get on better financial ground. A debt cosolidation loan can help you reduce your monthly payments, while lowering interest rates. A debt cosolidation program services your debt and negotiates lower interest rates. The final option of debt settlement or bankruptcy pose longer credit repercussions.
Debt cosolidation Loan
A debt cosolidation loan is either a home equity loan or a personal loan which is used to pay off your bills and unsecured debt, including credit cards. A home equity loan allows you to deduct your interest from your taxes.
With both types of loans, you can negotiate terms for smaller payments over a longer period. However, remember that you will be paying more in interest this way. You also want to make sure that your debt cosolidation loan has lower interest rates than what you are currently paying.
Debt cosolidation Program
Debt cosolidation programs service your debt by negotiating lower fees with your creditors and administering payments. All debt cosolidation companies will get you the same low interest rate on bills since this is predetermined by the creditors. The difference between companies comes from the amount they charge for fees and their customer service for following through with accounts.
By using a debt cosolidation program, you prove to creditors that you are committed to paying back your debts. Within a couple of years, you can have improved your credit to the point of being able to apply for new credit, even a mortgage loan.
Debt Settlement And Bankruptcy
If you are several months behind on payments or can’t afford debt cosolidation fees, you may want to consider debt settlement or bankruptcy. With both options, part or all of your debts are reduced. This is not a choice to be considered lightly. Your credit will suffer for several years by using either option. However, if you find yourself in dire financial difficulties, know you can use these options.
To decide which option is best for you, take a hard look at your finances. Ideally, you want to pay back your bills and loans to minimize any damage to your credit. A debt cosolidation loan will usually have the least impact, followed by using a debt cosolidation program. Using debt settlement or bankruptcy will stay on your credit history for seven to ten years.
To view our list of recommended debt cosolidation companies online, visit this page: Recommended Sources for Debt cosolidation Online.
Carrie Reeder is the owner of ABC Loan Guide, an informational website about various types of loans.