Debt repair scams and how to spot them

July 20, 2011 – 6:29 am

Many individuals burdened by credit card debt find themselves desperate for a way out. They are in a vulnerable position and can be easily taken advantage of. Unfortunate though it may be, debt repair scams do exist to prey on these individuals who are seeking a way out. To protect oneself from debt repair scammers, it is important to know what to look out for and what methods to utilize to protect one from fraudulent practices.

The credit and debt repair business has increased drastically in size over time. A declining economy left many people jobless and facing payments on loans that they could no longer pay. Those seeking to avoid filing for bankruptcy turned to debt settlement companies to help repair damaged credit and to assist them with loan repayments. Although there are many reputable companies available who provide this much needed services, there are also fraudulent companies who seek to solicit personal information for their own gain.

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Tags: Debt Repair, Repair

Why wait years to pay your debts? Debt consolidation is a solution

July 12, 2011 – 10:58 am

If you have to struggle with many unsecured loans, such as medical bills and credit cards, a debt consolidation service could help you. The same programs will help you summarize the varying amounts in a single account with the lowest interest rates. You can consolidate the amount in other ways, like taking a mortgage later. When you need guidance on credit card debt management, you can opt for a method of credit counseling.

Therefore, when you will learn the technique of personal counseling you can take advantage of it and eliminate contributions quickly. Debt consolidation services are designed to help borrowers to ease the heavy burden of arrears on their shoulder. You can be free from debts, if you opt for this legitimate solution.

Before you decide whether debt consolidation is good for you, it is important to note that this is not suitable for everyone. Read full article…

Tags: debt consolidation service

Dealing With The Recession

July 5, 2011 – 8:56 am

Layoffs were huge last year, and the U.S. unemployment rate has leaped to 7.2 percent. Most of us are in danger of being forced to cut back. If you only have a three-month emergency cushion, try to raising it to six.

There’s some interesting research about having an emergency savings account, and what is does for you from a mental health point of view. It makes you feel much more comfortable, and allows you to deal with emergencies if your hours are cut down or you lose your job.

Where does the money come from? Go online to get the most from couponing. If you joined a car pool to save money when gas was $4 a gallon, do not stop now. Have cash transferred automatically to savings each time you’re paid.

Particularly on your mortgage. If your rate is 6% or more and your credit is good, you may want to refinance. It may or may not make much sense but if you have good credit and equity, lenders are willing to provide you with various choices. Read full article…

How are debt consolidation companies regulated?

July 2, 2011 – 6:47 am

Debt consolidation companies should work with the interests of their clients in mind. The purpose of these companies is to provide counseling and debt management services for their clients by negotiating favorable terms on their accounts. However not all debt consolidation companies are upstanding and some will charge excessive and unnecessary fees. Understanding how these companies are regulated and what rights are set up to protect the consumer are an essential first step for anyone considering the use of these services.

All debt consolidation companies are required to establish themselves under 501(c) non-profit status with the IRS. They must be set up under this status by law however not all of these companies use their funds in the same way. Some companies will spend the majority of their budget on employee salaries and executive perks while charging miscellaneous fees such as loan origination fees and high monthly fees directly to their customers.

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Tags: Companies, Consolidation Companies, Debt Consolidation, Debt Consolidation Companies

Old School Ways Still Save Money

June 28, 2011 – 8:48 pm

Everyone is looking for new and creative ways to save money these days.   You don’t need to devise an elaborate budget that will have your family wondering if you’ve turned into Ebenezer Scrooge overnight.  Some times the best ways to save are the same things people have been doing for years – before ‘frugal’ was a cool word. Here are 10 quick and painless ways to save some money right now:

Tags: Money