[jigz1311]

Things have been really stressful lately, we have 3 credit cards that need to be paid off, about $2,000 - and 4 years worth of student loans plus our rent and other bills! We have pushed our wedding date back and year and basiclly stopped spending to we can try and ger back on track... are there any suggestions out there about where to start or maybe just some words of encouragement!?

[Fr_Chuck]

First of course why push wedding back ? Can I assume you live together anyway. 100 at the court house and a minster at your home with a few friends and family cost almost nothing. ( what most of my weddings are)
Budget, budget and budget. Pay off highest interest debts off first with any extra money

[grammadidi]

First, cut up the credit cards (or at the very least hide them away so that you aren't tempted to use them). Okay, now... call each credit card company and explain your situation. Ask them if they would waive fees if you make regular payments and don't charge any more on them until after they are paid off. If they say no, then ask if they can give you a lower interest rate or offer any other suggestions. You may be pleasantly surprised! Always pay more than the monthly minimums if you are able. Also, if they won't lower their interest rates then look for another card that will. Sometimes if you call a credit card company and tell them you are rate hunting because your present credit card interest rates are too high they will offer you 3 to 12 months interest free to switch your account.

Now, call your phone company and ask if they have any suggestions as to ways you can reduce your monthly bills. Do the same with your internet provider, cell phone provider, etc. Where I live they offer a discount for 'bundling' your services. You can save $20 a month on that alone. I called regarding my cell phone bills and they found me a cheaper way to work that. I called regarding my long distance and they offered me 1000 minutes a month anywhere in North America for $5.00 a month! Every penny you can save with these little ways you should apply to the loan/credit card with the highest interest rate. Eat dinner by candlelight (how romantic!) and play a game of cards or go for a walk in the evenings instead of watching TV or playing on the computer.

You might also want to consider credit counselling. They are really quite helpful! To make you more aware of your spending habits begin recording every penny you spend. It will really open your eyes as to where you can cut back. Don't get discouraged! Create a realistic budget then stick to it. It will help you to set up envelopes for your regular expenses, food, entertainment, etc.. Record on the envelope the date, the amount added. Every time you spend money from it record the date, amount and reason. You may NEVER spend more than the budgeted amount, and if you spend less, apply it to the loan/credit card with the highest interest rate.

It may seem like you are only making a small dent in things for awhile, but gradually you will see meaningful differences. Do you have any items you can sell? A garage sale once the nicer weather comes can make you some quick cash.

Learn ways to save money. If you need something check out Cheapcycle or Freecycle groups on the web. You will help the environment as well as save a few dollars. Make gifts and cards instead of purchasing them. I am also a firm believer in paying yourself first. Budget an amount to save and put it into a tax deductible retirement plan and/or savings. Again, it doesn't have to be a lot, but do it!

Hope some of these tips work. Good luck!

Didi

[gazelleintense]

Also check out daveramsey.com

For help with debt. :)