Even in the days of the tightest credit in 2008, HELOCs [ home equity line of credit ] and home equity loans were being made.
Jean ChatzkyAfter explaining why you're in trouble, ask the creditor if the company would be willing to accept a smaller amount. Start negotiations at about 30% of the total amount due, with the end goal of paying 50%.
Jean ChatzkyGet your friends involved. Let your shopping buddies know that you're on a tight budget, and they can help you out when your willpower starts to weaken at the mall.
Jean ChatzkyIf you'd asked me a few years ago about debt settlement companies, I probably would have told you to avoid them.
Jean ChatzkyYou can have a do-over starting today. But you have to get over the feeling that it's too late
Jean ChatzkyIn about one-third of credit card consolidations, within a short period of time, the cards come back out of the wallet, and in no time at all, they're charged back up. Then you're in an even worse position, because you have the credit card debt and the consolidation loan to worry about. You're in a hole that's twice as deep - and twice as steep.
Jean Chatzky