Credit Card Debt Blog

When you are overwhelmed with debt, debt consolidation may seem like a very good way to get ahead. In many cases, debt consolidation is a viable way to rid yourself of debt and get your credit back on track. However, there are some situations where it is actually more costly than paying off the debt through a payment plan. This is due to the nature of debt consolidation programs which are currently available. In a nutshell, debt consolidation loans are simply larger loans used to pay off other smaller loans such as credit cards, payday loans and other unsecured loans. A debt consolidation loan is typically secured, meaning that it requires collateral such as the person's home or a cosigner as a guarantee. Sometimes the loan can be unsecured, but these are more difficult to acquire.

There are many debt consolidation programs that are available to consumers. Most are reliable and honest, but some are scams and you should avoid these at all costs. The four primary places in which you can find a debt consolidation loan program are as follows:

• Local Credit Union or Bank – If you have a checking or savings account then you're probably familiar with your local credit union or bank. These financial institutions are on just about every street corner and pride themselves on providing their clients with a wide range of financial options, including checking and savings accounts, investment options, and loans. If you're considering consolidating your debts, you may want to consider acquiring your loan from your local bank or credit union. First of all, you already have an existing relationship with them and they will likely give you a fair deal to keep your business. You may find, however, that credit unions typically give better interest rates than banks because of their structure.

• Other Banks or Credit Unions – These banks and credit unions are typically the ones that are not located in your immediate area. In fact, there are many internet based banks and credit unions that offer great rates, which may be better than the rates offered by your existing local credit union or bank. Make sure that you check out these options, as well, but be careful to thoroughly evaluate any payment terms and reputations before you sign up for a loan with them.

• Mailers Advertising Debt Consolidation Programs - These lenders are directly soliciting you, indicating that you fit into their profile in some manner. They may be non-profit or for-profit organizations that are offering you their consolidation services. The benefit of these organizations is that they specialize in debt consolidation programs and have much experience helping customers like you. The drawback, however, is that there may be some unscrupulous companies vying for your business, as well, so be careful.

• Internet Search for Debt Consolidation - These programs exist entirely on the internet, so just about any business you do with them is done exclusively online. While this way is fast and easy, it is also fast and easy to get scammed. Before you proceed with any debt consolidation program that is not a bank or a well known lender, check them out with the Better Business Bureau and through any governing agencies, which vary from state to state.

The thing to keep in mind when deciding to go with a debt consolidation program is that, if you are not careful, the interest that you pay on your consolidation loan may leave you paying more in the long run than if you had negotiated a debt repayment plan with your creditors. This is particularly true if you stretch your payments over a longer time period, which will increase your interest rates.

The risks involved in using a debt consolidation program include the possibility of losing your home if you are unable to keep up with the payment schedule. Credit card companies and payday loan services cannot take your home if you do not pay. However, if you use your home as collateral in a debt consolidation program, you could conceivably lose it.

Debt consolidation programs can help you get out of debt or at least decrease the size of your debt, but they are not for everyone. You need to weigh all of the factors and review other options before taking the plunge.