If you’re burdened with debt, you may be wondering what options are available in Kenora. Debt consolidation is one way many people have found a way out of their debt problems.
Debt consolidation basically involves taking out one larger loan to pay off all your smaller debts. Then, instead of making multiple high-interest payments each month, you make just one. Debt consolidation is beneficial for many people because it makes it easier to pay down your debt. These loans usually offer lower interest than most credit cards, so it offers savings as well.
However, there are potential drawbacks. If you’re considering consolidating your debts, here are three things you need to understand about debt consolidation:
#1: Debt consolidation requires good credit.
Debt consolidation loans almost always require a good credit score. If you’re struggling with too much debt, have multiple late payments, or don’t have a steady income, you probably won’t qualify. Most debt consolidation loans also require that you have collateral to secure the loan, usually your home. If you don’t have anything to secure your loan, you probably won’t qualify.
#2: Defaulting has serious consequences.
Debt consolidation loans are usually secured debts, which means you must have something to secure the loan if you can’t make your payments. This is often your home, as many debt consolidation loans are home equity lines of credit. If you default on a debt consolidation loan, you could lose your home.
#3: It doesn’t address the root of the problem.
While debt consolidation may pay off your debts, it doesn’t fix the real problem of why you got into debt problems in the first place. If you have poor money management skills, a debt consolidation loan won’t help you manage your credit. In fact, it may even make things worse, especially if you continue to run up credit cards even after you’ve paid them off.
If you’re struggling with debt but don’t qualify for debt consolidation, you still have options. A visit to a licensed insolvency trustee can help you learn more about getting out of debt. The trustee will sit down with you, look over your financial situation, and discuss your options with you.
In Kenora, debt consolidation is a popular option for saving money on high interest credit. However, it isn’t always the best option. Before taking on a debt consolidation loan, consider whether you can qualify for it and whether you can comfortably make your payments.
Free Consultation!
Contact us for a free consultation to see how we can help you get out of debt.
Photo Credit: frankieLeon