How can I effectively manage my debt?
Managing debt during the collection process can seem challenging, but with the right strategies and resources, you can navigate the journey with confidence. We are not be able to give financial advice, but here are some tips we have found that may help:
- Understand your debts: List and understand all your debts, including the amount, minimum repayment, and due date. This will help you get a clear picture of your financial situation.
- Seek financial advice: If you feel overwhelmed by debt, don’t rush into a quick-fix solution. Instead, consult a free financial counsellor for guidance on your options and assistance in creating a plan.
- Determine what you can pay: Evaluate your income and expenditures to understand how much you can realistically afford to pay towards your debts. This involves budgeting, identifying essential and non-essential expenses, and making necessary spending cuts to allocate money for debt repayment.
- Prioritise your debts: Prioritise your debts and bills according to their importance. High-priority payments typically include rent or mortgage, utilities, and car repayments. Use your ‘debt money’ to pay these off first. If you’re finding it difficult to make a large payment, contact your provider for a potential extension or installment plan.
- Develop a savings mindset: Once your debt is managed, focus on saving for emergencies and future goals. Start an emergency fund and a savings account, and consider strategies for growing your money to achieve bigger goals.
Source: https://moneysmart.gov.au/managing-debt/get-debt-under-control
Here are some resources that may help:
- 🇦🇺 Australia: National regional resources Debt Helpline
- 🇳🇿 New Zealand: MoneyTalks
- 🇺🇸 United States: National Foundation for Credit Counseling
- 🇨🇦 Canada: Credit Counselling Canada
- 🇬🇧 United Kingdom: National Debtline
Note: InDebted’s content, information, and services are intended for educational and informational purposes only and do not constitute professional financial advice. Our information should not be used for making financial decisions and any reliance upon it is at your own risk. We recommend seeking advice from a professional financial advisor regulated by the relevant authorities in your country (ASIC in Australia, FMA in New Zealand, SEC in the U.S, FCAC in Canada, FCA in the UK) before making financial decisions.
