Debt – How much do you have?

In today’s world, it is difficult to find a person without debt. Most of us are dealing with some kind of debt or other – student loans, mortgages, auto loans, medical bills, credit card debt, etc. Taking out loans is not bad if you are capable enough to pay off the debts on time every month. But again, it should also be noted that if you incur too much of debt, then it will play havoc on your life. The balance of your financial life will be destroyed. In order to manage your debts, it is very important to note how much debt you owe to others.

Calculating how much debt you have

In order to be in a better position to pay off your debts, it is very important to know how much debt you have. One of the best ways to calculate your debt load is to estimate your debt to income ratio. This is a ratio which will help you know about your debt payments in comparison to your monthly income. While calculating your debt to income ratio, you may include your good debts as well as bad debts. However, if you wish, then you can exclude your good debts like your mortgage payments and student loans. Experts opine that in order to gauge your debt situation better, it will be good if you could only take into account your bad debts. However, taking into account both good and bad debt will give you the total picture of your debt situation.

Be true to yourself and your family

While you decide to track your debts, it is very important to be true to yourself and your family. Unless you are true to yourself, you will never be able to gauge your debt situation and take steps to get out of it. Do not ignore any debt considering it to be too small. With time, a small debt can turn out to be a big headache for you. Also, make sure that your family, especially, your spouse knows about your debt situation. He or she can play a great role in helping you managing your debt and coming out of it. Also, once you track down your debts, you should diligently follow a proper plan to pay off the debts. You should not avoid your debt payments for any other thing. All expenses can be kept at bay in order to pay off the debts. A good support from your family will make things easier for you.

Managing too much debt

Once you find that you have too much debt, you should set up a proper plan to pay it off. You can set up a plan on your own or you can take help of professional services in this regard. For unsecured debts like credit cards, medical bills, personal loans, etc., you can check out the option of debt consolidation or debt settlement. You can find a number of financial organizations offering such services. As far as your secured debts like mortgage and auto loans are concerned, you can speak to lenders directly and sort out the matter. They will offer you different options to pay off the loans.

Once you calculate your debts, it will be easier for you to manage it!