Paying debt can be one of the biggest challenges. Be it a small amount or huge amount, managing debt plays an important role in order to balance the payments so that it doesn’t get out of control. Whether personal loans, mortgages, credit cards, etc whatever it is, additional efforts have to be put while paying off your debts.
Here are the managerial tips for juggling payments on your debts:
Few Tips to Manage your Debt:
Know your debts
It is more important to know to whom you owe the debt. If you have multiple debts then you will have to list the lenders and organize these lenders list based on the importance of debt and include the name of the creditor, the total amount of the debt, monthly payment, and due date. In this way, you will get a clear understanding of the total debts.
You can also refer and update the list from time to time.
Prioritize your debts
Once you prepare a list, you will have all the details on the list. Utilize your debt list to rank and prioritize your debts in the order of payment. High-interest debts will take most of your monthly income. Check for options to clear the high-interest debts.
Monthly payment of installments
You will have to pay installments on time every month. If you delay the payments continuously you will have to deal with extra interest rates and other financial charges in addition to the negative remarks on the credit report. You can set a reminder on your computer/smartphone 5-10 days before the due date. So, that you will have an idea about your monthly bills. Allot your monthly budget for bills based on the priority order where unsecured can be given a bit higher priority compared to the secured ones.
Expenses planned based on the monthly budget
Monthly expenses can be covered by keeping a budget. Plan well in advance to take necessary actions if it seems like you will run short of money this month or next. A proper budget plan will help you identify the leftover money, which will, in turn, help you to pay your debts faster.
Debt consolidation
At times it can be difficult to pay the debts, in such cases, you can consider options like debt settlement, debt consolidation. Several banks offer debt consolidation loans. You will have to choose the available options properly since all these have both advantages and disadvantages. It is recommended to get some expert advice before you consolidate your existing debts.
Check: Best ways to manage your Personal Finance
Emergency Fund
Always save money beforehand, you may not know when you require. If you have an emergency fund you can manage to pay your debts in the critical period like losing a job, medical emergencies, household repairs, etc. This fund can stop you from initiating new debts and help you repay your existing debts to meet your expenses in the case of urgency.
Part-time employment
Consider taking up an additional part-time job to repay the debt. This way you can also increase your income and clear off your debts are as early as possible.
Spending life with debts is tough which leads you to adjust to financial goals. So, you will have to manage your debt wisely and get a good credit counselling. Managing debt will enhance financial freedom. Plan to stay out of debt in the future.
About the author
Anala is a young and spunky guru on financial matters, who tells you like it is; everything from managing debt to managing savings accounts. While books and movies keep her brain ticking, Anala pursues swimming and dancing to keep fit. A lifelong explorer and learner, Anala believes in giving back, and volunteers with the Bright Spark Education program at the NGO Youngistaan Foundation, where she opens up children's minds to the innumerable possibilities of a happy and successful life!
