Limit Credit Cards
If you are unable or unwilling to get rid of your credit cards, at least stop using them for things that will depreciate in value, such as clothes, meals out and vehicles. Go shopping with cash instead of cards to avoid overspending on impulse buys.
Part-Time Job
If the circumstances are right, you may be able to get a part-time job and use those checks to pay towards your debt. Part-time at minimum wage may not sound like much, but when you can chip away at debt a few hundred at a time, it will certainly make a difference.
Shopping Addiction
Some people become addicted to overspending and accumulate large amounts of debt. If you think you may have a spending problem and are considering filing bankruptcy to eliminate your debt, examine your motives to ensure, you won’t find yourself in the same situation after the bankruptcy.
Debtors Anonymous has a questionnaire to help you determine if you have a problem with debt. If you answer “yes” to at least 8 of the questions, you may be a compulsive spender.
- Are your debts making your home unhappy?
- Does the pressure of your debts distract you from your daily work?
- Are your debts affecting your reputation?
- Do your debts cause you to think less of yourself?
- Have you ever given false information in order to obtain credit?
- Have you ever made unrealistic promises to your creditors?
- Does the pressure of your debts make you careless when it comes to the welfare of your family?
- Do you ever fear that your employer, family or friends will learn the extent of your total indebtedness?
- When faced with a difficult financial situation, does the prospect of borrowing give you an inordinate feeling of relief?
- Does the pressure of your debts cause you to have difficulty sleeping?
- Has the pressure of your debts caused you to consider getting drunk?
- Have you ever borrowed money without giving adequate consideration of the rate of interest you are required to pay?
- Do you usually expect a negative response when your subject to a credit investigation?
- Have you ever developed a strict regimen for paying off your debts, only to break it under pressure?
- Do you justify your debts by telling yourself that you are superior to the “other” people and when you get your “break” you’ll be out of debt?
Debtors Anonymous
To find a support group in your area, check out the Debtors Anonymous website. You can also find information on handling your debt on the site.
If you are dealing with overwhelming debt and need a fresh start, contact a McAllen bankruptcy attorney to find out what can be done to help you in your situation.