| Debt Consolidation &
Debt Counseling
Choosing who to pay each
month and writing all those checks can be a nuisance or even a
problem. Sometimes people choose to consolidate all or some of
their debts into a single loan or debt. Often this is done to
reduce interest, level out payments and other reasons including
tax benefits.
Sometimes its used as a
technique to pay off old debts and even improve your credit
rating.
This is called debt
consolidation or loan consolidation and can offer many benefits
and some risks depending on your situation and needs.
Traditionally loan companies
offer this service. Its made somewhat easier on the internet as
you can apply once and get multiple offers.
If you own your own home you
can get a home equity loan and (1) save on interest (2) the
interest may be tax deductible.
Unsecured consolidation loans
are available, (usually for higher interest) but your new loan
often will need to be secured by your car, house or whatever
collateral you have to offer.
Some of your loans may be
older and have high interest rates. Others may be credit cards
with very high interest rates.
Some companies offer debt
counseling with or without debt consolidation services.
As in any financial
transaction, always check out the legitimacy of the company you
choose to deal with.
Also you may wish to review
these Consumer Protection articles from the
U.S. Government
and get legal counseling
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