Archive for November 5th, 2009

Debt Consolidation Loans

There are many arguments for or against obtaining a debit consolidation loan. To aid a person wondering about whether or not to make their decision, in order to help them make an informed decision, there are many resources available. As you consider this important decision, you need to take advantage of the many resources available about debt consolidation loans.

The most obvious place to go to for information is the one you’re probably already using if you’re reading this article: the internet. Our ancestors would consider us incredibly fortunate and spoiled, given how much information is freely available online. All it takes is a little determination to use those search engines and click those links until you find what you need. Since the internet is a platform that tends to provide information as there is a demand for it, and many people have trouble understanding financial matters, debt consolidation information is one of many finance-related topics with a vast network of helpful online informants.

When looking to the Internet, keep in mind that many companies that offer these types of loans maintain websites to advise you. Keep in mind, however, that these websites are written and maintained by the companies that are vying for you business, and may offer you an online application form somewhere in their informative materials.

If you’d rather not trust the marketplace, you can also try a government source. The government has better reasons than most organizations to want people to be educated about how to use financial services properly, after all! You may find the presentation a bit dry, but government sources can be very thorough and informative, utilizing databases and other kinds of information not readily available to ordinary financial companies.

But let’s say you’re intimidated by the internet and would rather take a hands on approach to learning about debt consolidation. Fair enough! You can buy educational books, cds, and dvds on the subject at many major stores. Or for a more personal touch, you could try attending a seminar, which educates people on the finer points of debt consolidation for a minor attendance fee.

One thing to keep in mind though, is that there are traveling road show types of seminars. They may not charge a fee for your attendance, but there could be some hidden charges. These could include the required purchase of materials and study aids for the seminar. Make sure you understand what the seminar entails before you get involved with such a debt consolidation loan seminar.

Once you have that information, it will last you the rest of your life. Your debts will probably seem less severe, once you’ve acquired the knowledge of how to deal with them effectively through consolidation. But it’s up to you to take that first step, every time.

Susan Reynolds is the webmaster for a leading South African Debt Consolidation Portal. For more information visit: http://www.debtconsolidation123.co.za/

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Debt Settlement Good or Bad Versus Other Options.

There are two types of bankruptcies that most consumers file. A chapter 7 or a chapter 13.

A chapter 7 is the wipe out that most people associate with filing a personal BK. The laws changed in 2005 and it is now more difficult to qualify.

A chapter 13 is a 3-5 year repayment plan where the courts will determine how much you can pay (based on a calculated discretionary income) YOU MAY HAVE TO PAY OFF ALL OF YOUR DEBT. Only save interest and late fees.

Debt Consolidation is a program where you make one monthly payment to a company and they disburse it to your creditors. They typically lower your interest rate and the program is for an average of 7 years. “” Approximately 75% of the people who enter these type of programs never complete them. The companies who set you up in these programs earn most of their fees from the CREDIT CARD COMPANIES.

Your third option is Debt Settlement. Most companies are charging you a total cost of over 65% with no legal fees included. Click on the link and go to FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) to fully understand why they are charging outrageous fees with no legal representation. There is one program out there, which is directly with an attorney with a total cost of 55% which also includes legal fees and court appearances as required.

Bankruptcy obviously has the worst effect on your credit. It will appear on your credit report for 8 to 10 years. Debt Consolidation is also a black mark on your credit due to the fact you could not fulfill your original contractual agreement. With Debt Settlement your credit score will decrease significantly in the short term (As you will pay the Attorney instead of your creditors). Once your accounts are settled or eliminated your scores will increase. Restoring or cleaning your credit is fairly simple once your accounts are closed. Most companies do not offer this service with the settlement. WHY NOT ?

John Ames is founder and president of legally settle debt. He has an MBA in Finance and over 30 years experience in Finance, Financial Planning, Debt Settlement and Credit Repair. Legal Debt Settlement

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