I don`t have enough debt to file for bankruptcy,only @ $500. Any alternatives?

Have you tried coming to some agreement with your creditors? Perhaps they would freeze interest payments and allow you to pay off what you owe in small amounts.

It will cost you more than the $500 you owe. Contact the places you owe it to and offer to pay something towards the amount each month even if it's only $5 to each place until the $500 is paid off. Bankruptcy is not a debt eliminator if you just don't feel like paying the money.

Exile:

It sounds to me like you just need some help setting up a budget and learning to live within your means. Access the following website (www.nfcc.org) and see a counselor. There is no charge and they should be able to help you.

You may also want to visit Clark Howard's website (www.clarkhoward.com). He is an Atlanta consumer advocate who has helped thousands get their financial house in order. You may be able to listen to him on a local AM radio station, as his talk show is now syndicated nation-wide. At the very minimum, you can listen to his show over the web.

Hope this helps!

Atlanta Tax Expert