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FROM RED TO BLACK. Marilyn Williams, CD, BBA, MBA, CFP UNBSJ, 1983, 1993. Managing your debt and credit. How do we end up in debt?. We want everything now We are used to using “plastic” so it is not “real” Credit is far too easy to get and in your face all the time.
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FROM RED TO BLACK Marilyn Williams, CD, BBA, MBA, CFP UNBSJ, 1983, 1993 Managingyour debt and credit
How do we end up in debt? We want everything now We are used to using “plastic” so it is not “real” Credit is far too easy to get and in your face all the time.
Credit does not give us more money to spend !You cannot spend it now and have it to spend later!
There are advantages to credit:1. Great for emergencies2. Safe and convenient3. You can buy things when you don’t have cash on hand (i.e. a sale)4. Rebates and bonuses
There are disadvantages to credit:1. Things are more expensive2. Easy to overspend3. Ties up your future income4. May lead to financial and family difficulties.
What can you do to avoid the credit trap?1. You only need ONE credit card.2. Keep the credit limit low and demand that they do not raise it.
What can you do to avoid the credit trap?3. Save the money ahead of time – it’s a great sense of accomplishment.4. Cash lets you do some bargaining.
What to do with your existing debt?1. ALWAYS make payments on time – at least make the minimum payment.2. Pay off the highest interest rate debt first.
Your Credit Rating1. A score based on how well you handle your bills.2. It affects your ability to borrow money.3. Employers also check credit ratings!!!
5 C’s of credit1. Character – your attitude toward debt2. Capacity – do you have the cash flow?3. Capital – what is your net worth4. Collateral – do you have assets to pledge?5. Conditions – the economy, your job security
So how do you avoid problems?1. Buy want you NEED not what you want.2. Save the money and pay cash3. Pay basic bills on time4. Only borrow what you absolutely need – avoid the pitfalls of “gimmicks” and “rewards”
So how do you avoid problems?5. Shop around for prices and credit cost – it is fun!6. Choose the shortest term you can afford – you will pay less in the end.7. Pay more than the minimum – that is the “never – never plan”.
What if you are in trouble?1. Talk to your creditors and try to work out a plan.2. Consolidate your debt.3. Credit Counselling.4. Trustees in bankruptcy – actually a better deal for you.5. Full blown bankruptcy