Step 2: Budget, Budget, Budget
It’s tough to determine how much spending is too much unless you know what you can afford to spend each month. When you create a budget, add up your monthly income, then subtract your recurring expenses, such as rent or mortgage, food, commuting costs, and, of course, regular debt payments. Remember that if you overspend what remains, it will just increase your outstanding debt balances.
Step 3: Pay Off Problem Accounts
If you have a manageable mortgage with a low interest rate, erasing that balance will not be a high priority, especially since you can deduct the interest payments on your tax return if you itemize. High-interest charge cards are another story. Your best bet is to economize enough to pump up your payments and get rid of those balances entirely. If that’s not possible, shop around for a credit card that offers a lower interest rate and aim to pay more than the minimum balance every month—without adding any additional debt. While you may be tempted to pay off a low balance first, if the interest rate on that account is reasonable, make the high interest accounts a priority.
Step 4: Dedicate Windfalls to Debt
Did you receive a tax refund this year? Or maybe you’re expecting to get a bonus at work? It’s natural to want to use some of that money for fun, so set aside a small percentage to put toward a vacation or other indulgence. Use the rest to lower your outstanding balances. In fact, whenever you find yourself with extra funds, earmark some for debt payments. Once you get in the habit, you’ll find it’s much easier to maintain smaller balances or even eliminate them completely.
Step 5: Reap the Rewards
When you pay off a big balance, give yourself a pat on the back and a nice reward. But think small—you don’t want to undo all the good work you’ve done. Plan a weekend away at a local amusement park, for example, instead of a week in the Caribbean. But do give yourself an incentive to stick with your smart spending plan.
(Your local CPA can help. Whether you’re wrestling with debt or tackling other financial issues, be sure to turn to your local CPA. He or she can offer great ideas for managing your money. To find a local CPA and learn more about using credit cards wisely visit www.picpa.org/moneyandlife.)
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