You'll get much better results by being upfront, answering creditors calls, and responding to their letters. Delaying the inevitable only digs a deeper hole.

After 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%.

Rolling all of your debts into a single loan is a good idea - in theory. In fact, it can be a great idea.

When you default on a secured debt, the creditor takes the asset that backs up that debt. When you convert credit card debt to mortgage debt, you are securing that credit card debt with your home. That's a risky proposition.

No company can promise an end date, but if you have multiple debts, the first one should be settled within a year.

By definition, saving - for anything - requires us to not get things now so that we can get bigger ones later.

A little personality goes a long way.