Many Americans struggle with debt of some kind; credit card debt and student loan debt are the most common types. Debt can build up quickly and unexpectedly and is often a terrible burden for affected individuals and families. To minimize your debts, read the following tips: Eliminate unnecessary payments. Choose a less expensive cable plan 

Many Americans struggle with debt of some kind; credit card debt and student loan debt are the most common types. Debt can build up quickly and unexpectedly and is often a terrible burden for affected individuals and families. To minimize your debts, read the following tips:

  • Eliminate unnecessary payments. Choose a less expensive cable plan and stop paying a monthly rate for services you don’t use. Limit the amount you spend on shopping and technology upgrades. Instead of buying dinner and drinks, cook your own meals and prepare coffee at home.
  • Avoid temptations. If you know that you can’t walk past a specific ice cream store without going in and spending money, avoid that store. Don’t purposely put yourself in situations that might result in you spending money you should be saving.
  • Make a budget. Don’t make a vague plan for how you hope to spend your money; plan out exactly how all of your money will be spent. Set aside all of your necessary living expenses, and then set an amount to go towards paying off your debt.
  • Negotiate with your creditors. If your creditors will agree to settle your debt for less than the actual amount, negotiate strongly. Don’t be too pushy, or your creditors may reject any settlement offers, but try and get your debt settled for as low as possible.

For more about lowering your debt and learning proper money management, talk with a local financial advisor. If you find yourself in deep debt, a Louisville bankruptcy attorney may be able to help you negotiate with creditors.