Debt Consolidation: What It Is and How It Works
Obtaining a debt consolidation loan is something to seriously consider,
if you find yourself digging an endless hole into debt. Debt
Consolidation Loans are specifically targeted to those who have drowned
themselves so badly into debt, that taking care of the situation by
oneself is impractical and not affordable. A debt consolidation loan is
a loan that combines all of the debt you owe from your creditors into
one payment, which can be significantly lower. They can be financed in
two distinct ways, the total amount of debt you owe can be financed, or
only the portion that you would like to pay off. Either way, a debt
consolidation loan can work wonders for you, as having just one monthly
payment, along with a reduced interest rate, will alleviate any and all
future headaches.
While many of those who have these types of problems have bad credit, more often than not, you will need to provide some sort of collateral. While most people may use their car or their home as collateral, it would be wise to use something that is “nice” but not necessary – a boat, an extra car, etc. – instead of risking your main needs.
Before applying for a debt consolidation loan, it is wise for you to research your financial records and determine your direction. Here are questions to ask yourself:
- Should you finance all of your debt or just some of it?
- Which creditors would you like to pay off the most?
- Would you like to just focus on credit card debt?
- Are there any debts which are more lenient than others?
- Are student loan payments driving you crazy?
- Are there any creditors keeping you from acquiring or doing something?
Answering these questions will give you a good indication as to what
your interest rate will be, how much collateral you'll need, and what
your monthly note will be. These questions will greatly aid you in
knowing what to expect, as well as help you expedite the process in
commuicating with a potential lender exaclty what loan you will need to
suit your predicament.
Before accepting ANY loan, be sure to read the fine print, and familiarize yourself with the specific terms which apply to your loan. For example, your collateral may be used to leverage the amount of your monthly bill, or your overall loan amount. These factors differ depending on the lender, so be sure to ask these questions – you don't want to dig your hole any deeper.
Depending on lender policies, many will have a cap on the amount you can borrow. Depending on how close you get to that cap will determine the amount of collateral you will need for qualification. Keep in mind that debt consolidation loans carry higher interest rates than others – do not let this discourage you. Although the interest rates are higher, it will save you money, as the individual interest rates charged by your creditors individually will be significantly higher.
Overall, the consolidation loan process will aid you in saving money,
especially with the single monthly payment for your total sum of debt.
Understanding the regulated procedures involved will greatly aid you in
understanding the approval process, and help you determine how quickly
you can get out of debt. Here are 4 tips to help you find the most
appropriate and trustworthy debt consolidation firm:
- Stay away from debt consolidation companies that call you repeatedly or send spam emails – Reputable debt consolidation companies do not advertise over aggresively, and retain a considerable level of business ethics. Those companies that engage in unethical, aggressive practices probably have ridiculous fees without a reserve to back up their transactions.
- Just because a debt consolidation company is classified as non-profit does not necessarily guarantee great service – What many people do not realize is that many non-profit debt consolidation companies charge a fee that is up to 15% on top of your total debt. It may be better for you to go with a private company, as they are regulated, have rigid corporate policies, and absolutely have to do their job and deliver good service. If you find a “free” company, they may have a nonchalant attitude towards you, as they have nothing to gain from it – and you have everything to lose if they do not abide by ethical follow up standards.
- Never give out any sensitive information about your accounts over the telephone – Most reputable companies know better than this; however, it is very unprofessional and a security risk for you if you give this information out freely, for obvious reasons. Information such as social security numbers, driver's license numbers, and birthdates etc. should been given out in a face-to-face meeting – and only in that situation if you are not completely confident with a company. As identity theft is becoming more of a problem, reputable companies would like to deal with you in person – think about it: anyone can claim to be another person over the telephone.
- If it sounds like the consolidation is too good to be true, it probably is - The old rule applies here. While a debt consolidation company may claim that they can get you out of debt in six months, it generally is impossible, and will cost you more, as the interest rate will explode and go through the roof if you fail to pay your debt off within the six months. Stay away from such companies as well – you will more than likely get burned, rather than find help for your unfortunate situation.