Warning Signs of Debt

The first step to overcoming a debt problem is recognizing it. If worries about your credit cards and loans are keeping you awake at night, you probably already know that you’re in over your head.

But if you’ve been cruising along, juggling credit cards and happily spending, you may not yet realize that you’re on a dangerous path. If you find yourself in any of these situations, think seriously about addressing your debt.

• You routinely spend more than you earn.
• You make only the minimum payment required on your credit cards.
• Your credit limit is maxed on most of your cards.
• You’re unsure about how much you owe or what may be on your credit report.
• You skip payments on some bills in order to pay others, or use cash advances on one credit card to pay off another.
• You use credit cards for day-to-day purchases like groceries, movie tickets or fast food.
• You find yourself arguing with your spouse about money. Or, you’re are afraid to talk to your spouse about money at all.
• You’ve recently been turned down for credit or a loan.
• You panic when faced with an unexpected expense, such as a car repair.
• You owe more on your car than it’s worth.
• Creditors are calling you about overdue bills.
• You’re thinking about filing for bankruptcy.