The content is accurate at the time of publication and is subject to change.
Every problem has its roots. Before solving it, you have to be well versed on how it came to be. This principle also applies on bad credit history. Before things get out of hand, you have to discern that something is wrong.
At the beginning, credit problems not look like a big deal. But as you disregard the signs, you get into it and can`t get out of the pit. But don`t worry; it`s not the end of everything. When you have the symptoms of credit trouble you have to do the following:
1. Stop Charging. Never go beyond the limit of your card and keep your balances below half the limit. Do not open another credit account. This action is another liability in the making. Pay off debts as soon as possible to avoid interests piling up.
2. Communicate with your creditors. This will eliminate the perception that you are hiding from your lenders or creditors. Come up with an agreement or modes of payment for your debts.
3. Reduce your expenses. Set financial goals and plans. Budgeting is a key factor to do this. Cutting down on unnecessary expenses through proper budgeting is not easy and will require a proper understanding of the needs versus the wants. For example, if you want to spend on entertainment (such as a movie), it is a better idea to rent a DVD than to go out. Some expenditure busters are really common, like reducing water usage, sell extra vehicles which are otherwise parked in the garage, and many others. Your savings from cutting back expenses may not be realized at first but sooner or later you`ll see the development.
4. Pay your bills on time and pay it in full. Take note on your calendar, planner, or make a reminder of the due dates of your bills. Organize and file your bills, label them so you could easily check which ones are due.
5. Start a savings account. You can start small but as you go further, you can add up. Setting a goal in how much you want to earn gives you a psyche on where you want to go. Set aside a percentage of your income every month and put it in your savings account.
6. Transfer balances to a new line with attractive rates. Make sure you have researched first before doing this.
7. If you`re a couple with joint debt, discuss with your spouse or partner your payment terms. Work with your partner so the burden won`t fall with only one person. After coming up with the payment terms, set a financial goal for your future. This may include college tuitions, vacation plans, retirement plans, relocation plans, etc. Working with your partner or spouse also builds up your relationship and maintains transparency even with financial difficulties.
Essentially, you need to realize that you are experiencing financial trouble before you can do something about it. Once you understand that your finances can eventually affect your entire life, then your troubles are already half-solved.
