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Proejct DEBT-o-nation
This document summarizes tips and strategies for managing household finances and avoiding debt. It discusses signs of financial trouble, first steps to debt-proof living like creating a spending plan, and types of spending personalities. It also covers managing current debt through prioritizing payments and contacting creditors, as well as tips for attacking debt like finding extra money each month to pay down balances faster. Options for assistance programs or credit counseling are presented along with warnings about scams.
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Proejct DEBT-o-nation
- 1. Project Household Financesfor Debt-Proof Living DEBT- o-nation
- 2. Why We’re theExperts Nationwide, non-profit
- 3. Why We’re theExperts Nationwide, non-profit Headquartered in Boise, Idaho since 1996
- 4. Why We’re theExperts Nationwide, non-profit Headquartered in Boise, Idaho since 1996 Financial educators
- 5. Outline of SessionManaging Money (the “B” Word) Understanding Debt Dealing with Current Debt Avoiding & Minimizing Future Debt
- 6. Signs of FinancialTrouble No Savings
- 7. Signs of FinancialTrouble No Savings Minimum Payments
- 8. Signs of FinancialTrouble No Savings Minimum Payments Payday Loans
- 9. Signs of FinancialTrouble Minimum Payments Payday Loans Overtime
- 10. Signs of FinancialTrouble Statement? What Statement? Payday Loans Overtime
- 11. Signs of FinancialTrouble Declined Card Statement? What Statement? Overtime
- 12. Signs of FinancialTrouble Declined Card Borrow from Family Statement? What Statement?
- 13. Signs of FinancialTrouble Declined Card Borrow from Family 20%+ to Loans
- 14. Signs of FinancialTrouble Borrow from Family 20%+ to Loans Delay Doctor Visits
- 15. Signs of FinancialTrouble “ What if” Insomnia 20%+ to Loans Delay Doctor Visits
- 16. First Steps toDebt-proof Living?
- 17. First Steps toDebt-proof Living? Stop the Slide
- 18. First Steps toDebt-proof Living? Stop the Slide Spending Plan
- 19. First Steps toDebt-proof Living? Stop the Slide Spending Plan Spending Habits
- 20. Self-Affirmation Please RepeatAfter Me:
- 21. Self-Affirmation I Liveby a Budget! Please Repeat After Me:
- 22. Self-Affirmation I Liveby a Budget! Please Repeat After Me:
- 23. Self-Affirmation I Liveby a Budget! Please Repeat After Me:
- 24. We’re ALL SpendersConvenient “ I don’t have time to shop around!”
- 25. We’re ALL SpendersEntitled Convenient “ I deserve this!”
- 26. We’re ALL SpendersCompensatory Entitled Convenient “ This Is Who I Am!”
- 27. We’re ALL SpendersHabitual Compensatory Entitled Convenient “ Shopping Is Fun!”
- 28. We’re ALL SpendersImpulse Habitual Compensatory Entitled Convenient Got to Have It NOW!
- 29. We’re ALL SpendersImpulse Habitual Compensatory Entitled Convenient Sales “ But it’s 75% off!
- 30. We’re ALL SpendersImpulse Habitual Compensatory Entitled Convenient DISCIPLINED Sales I’m in control of my money
- 31. Managing Debt Regardlessof the reason… … Debt Happens!
- 32. Managing Debt MajorEvent-Causes of Debt:
- 33. Managing Debt JobLoss or Income Reduction Major Event-Causes of Debt:
- 34. Managing Debt JobLoss or Income Reduction Medical Bills Major Event-Causes of Debt:
- 35. Managing Debt JobLoss or Income Reduction Medical Bills Divorce Major Event-Causes of Debt:
- 36. Managing Debt JobLoss or Income Reduction Medical Bills Divorce Death of a Spouse Major Event-Causes of Debt:
- 37. Managing Debt JobLoss or Income Reduction Medical Bills Divorce Death of a Spouse Car Repair Major Event-Causes of Debt:
- 38. Managing Debt JobLoss or Income Reduction Medical Bills Divorce Death of a Spouse Car Repair Law suit Major Event-Causes of Debt:
- 39. Managing Debt JobLoss or Income Reduction Medical Bills Divorce Death of a Spouse Car Repair Law suit Gambling/Addiction Major Event-Causes of Debt:
- 40. Managing Debt MajorMentality-Causes of Debt:
- 41. Managing Debt Impatient: We Overspend Major Mentality-Causes of Debt:
- 42. Managing Debt Impatient: We Overspend Overconfident : We Use Credit Cards Unwisely Major Mentality-Causes of Debt:
- 43. Managing Debt Impatient: We Overspend Overconfident : We Use Credit Cards Unwisely Negligent : We Don’t Manage Our Money Major Mentality-Causes of Debt:
- 44. Managing Debt Impatient: We Overspend Overconfident : We Use Credit Cards Unwisely Negligent : We Don’t Manage Our Money Complacent : We Have No Emergency Savings Major Mentality-Causes of Debt:
- 45. Managing Debt Married?Work on $$$ Together! Don’t argue! Agree on Common Goals!
- 46. Managing Debt Prioritizeyour Debts Home & Auto Repossession & Foreclosure Work in “good faith” Contact HUD counselor
- 47. Managing Debt ContactYour Creditors BEFORE they send you to collections. Modified Payment Plan.
- 48. Self Help IsSometimes Best Change credit cards due dates to coincide with paydays Use online banking service and pay bills online.
- 49. Self Help IsSometimes Best Consider major changes BEFORE they are forced upon you.
- 50. Tips for Attackingthe Debt More $ You Send Sooner You Pay Off Less You Pay
- 51. Tips for Attackingthe Debt Finding “FREE Money” 20% unaccounted for
- 52. Tips for Attackingthe Debt 10% of controllable expenses. Possibly $50-$100. Send off EVERY month! “ Snowball” into other payments until you’re DEBT FREE!!! PowerCash Early Payoff and/or Big Savings
- 53. For a creditcard balance of $15,000 at 14% here’s the difference: What Difference Can $50 Make?
- 54. For a creditcard balance of $15,000 at 14% here’s the difference: What Difference Can $50 Make? 20 Years & $10,000 in Interest!!!
- 55. For a creditcard balance of $15,000 at 14% here’s the difference: What Difference Can $50 Make? $481/mo Paid off in 3 yrs $123K+ in Savings
- 56. For a creditcard balance of $15,000 at 14% here’s the difference: What Difference Can $50 Make? $481/mo Paid off in 3 yrs $170K+ in Bonds
- 57. For a creditcard balance of $15,000 at 14% here’s the difference: What Difference Can $50 Make? $481/mo Paid off in 3 yrs $230K+ in Stocks
- 58. For a creditcard balance of $15,000 at 14% here’s the difference: What Difference Can $50 Make? Over 17 Years… You CONTRIBUTE $98K Your Money GENERATES $25,000-$135,000+ Additional !!!
- 59. Tips for Attackingthe Debt Different Repayment Methods for Different Individuals, by…
- 60. Importance of DebtTips for Attacking the Debt Different Repayment Methods for Different Individuals, by…
- 61. Importance of DebtInterest Rate (highest first) Tips for Attacking the Debt Different Repayment Methods for Different Individuals, by…
- 62. Importance of DebtInterest Rate (highest first) Size of Debt (smallest first) Tips for Attacking the Debt Different Repayment Methods for Different Individuals, by…
- 63. Debt Repayment PlanEnter information Prioritize: Property, APR, or Balance Creditor Current Balance APR Years to Payoff Minimum Monthly Payment Total Payout Gas $500 19.9% 3¼ yrs $25 $670 Visa $5,000 15.9% 19¾ yrs $125 $10,220 Store $1,500 24.9% 6¾ yrs $75 $2,440 Car $15,000 9.9% 5 yrs $318 $19,080 TOTALS $22,000 19¾ yrs $543 $32,410
- 64. Debt Repayment PlanEnter information Prioritize: Property , APR, or Balance Gas $500 19.9% 3¼ yrs $25 $670 Car $15,000 9.9% 5 yrs $318 $19,080 Store $1,500 24.9% 6¾ yrs $75 $2,440 Visa $5,000 15.9% 19¾ yrs $125 $10,220 TOTALS $22,000 19¾ yrs $543 $32,485 Creditor Current Balance APR Years to Payoff Minimum Monthly Payment Total Payout
- 65. Debt Repayment PlanAdvantage: Protection Enter information Prioritize: Property , APR, or Balance Gas $500 19.9% 3¼ yrs $25 $670 Car $15,000 9.9% 5 yrs $318 $19,080 Store $1,500 24.9% 6¾ yrs $75 $2,440 Visa $5,000 15.9% 19¾ yrs $125 $10,220 TOTALS $22,000 19¾ yrs $543 $32,485 Creditor Current Balance APR Years to Payoff Minimum Monthly Payment Total Payout
- 66. Debt Repayment PlanStore $1,500 24.9% $75 Gas $500 19.9% $25 Enter information Prioritize: Property , APR , or Balance Visa $5,000 15.9% $125 Car $15,000 9.9% $318 +$50 PowerCash 1.1 Yr 1¼ Yr 2.6 Yrs 3.8 Yrs $125 Creditor Current Balance APR Years to Payoff Minimum Monthly Payment Total Payout
- 67. Debt Repayment PlanStore $1,500 24.9% $75 Gas $500 19.9% $25 Advantage: Save Time & $$$ Enter information Prioritize: Property , APR , or Balance Visa $5,000 15.9% $125 Car $15,000 9.9% $318 You’ll Spend This Much Less: $5,070 1.1 Yr 1¼ Yr 2.6 Yrs 3.8 Yrs $125 Creditor Current Balance APR Years to Payoff Minimum Monthly Payment Total Payout
- 68. Debt Repayment PlanVisa $5,000 15.9% $125 Gas $500 19.9% $25 Enter information Prioritize: Property , APR, or Balance Store $1,500 24.9% $75 Car $15,000 9.9% $318 +$50 PowerCash ½ Yr 1¼ Yr 2.6 Yrs 3.8 Yrs $75 Creditor Current Balance APR Years to Payoff Minimum Monthly Payment Total Payout
- 69. Debt Repayment PlanVisa $5,000 15.9% $125 Gas $500 19.9% $25 Advantage: See It Sooner - Stick to It Enter information Prioritize: Property , APR, or Balance Store $1,500 24.9% $75 Car $15,000 9.9% $318 $5,046 LESS than Minimums & Just $24 MORE than APR ½ Yr 1¼ Yr 2.6 Yrs 3.8 Yrs $75 Creditor Current Balance APR Years to Payoff Minimum Monthly Payment Total Payout
- 70. What if Ineed “outside” help? Several options: Look for… Reputation Established (not “fly by night”) Better Business Bureau history Audited and accredited Written contracts & agreements Discloses all fees
- 71. Isn’t Credit CounselingDamaging? Disclaimer: I am a credit counselor
- 72. Isn’t Credit CounselingDamaging? Disclaimer: I am a credit counselor Clearing Up Misconceptions: Repay debt “ $-4-$ ” DON’T Settle Amounts NOT a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy TEMPORARY Credit Notation Prohibits credit cards for NOW No direct FICO impact
- 73. Financial Danger ZoneQuick & Easy=Expensive
- 74. Financial Danger ZoneQuick & Easy=Expensive TITLE RENT TO OWN PAYDAY
- 75. Financial Danger ZoneOther Damaging Options
- 76. Financial Danger ZoneOther Damaging Options BANK-RUPTCY IGNORING DEBT DEBT SETTLE-MENT
- 77. Scams & Rip-OffsCredit Increase Calls Asks for Card # or Soc Sec Ask for Card’s Security #
- 78. Scams & Rip-OffsCollections & Cards Shift Debt to Credit Card Credit Increase Calls Asks for Card # or Soc Sec Ask for Card’s Security #
- 79. Scams & Rip-OffsCollections & Cards Craig’s List Low Low Price eBay Motors PrePay & Lose $$$ Shift Debt to Credit Card Calls Asks for Card # or Soc Sec Ask for Card’s Security # Credit Increase
- 80. Scams & Rip-OffsCredit Increase Collections & Cards Craig’s List Other Low Low Price eBay Motors PrePay & Lose $$$ Shift Debt to Credit Card Too Good to Be True? IT IS!!! Calls Asks for Card # or Soc Sec Ask for Card’s Security #
- 81. Staying Out ofDebt Budget, budget, budget, budget, budget , budget , budget , budget , budget , budget …
- 82. Staying Out ofDebt Spend LESS and Earn MORE
- 83. Staying Out ofDebt Save for a rainy day
- 84. Staying Out ofDebt Trusted outside help
- 85. Thank You forBeing Here! National Headquarters 6213 N Cloverdale Rd Ste 100 Boise, ID 83713 (877) 688-3328
Editor's Notes
- #2 Opener: How’s everyone feeling? Any of the following? Night sweats Insomnia Lethargy Apathy Stomach Pains Shortness of Breath Dementia Forgetfulness You may, like many, be suffering from acute symptoms of Uptight, unwound, overburdened, financial hyperdebt’n’credititus DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
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- #7 Talking Points: Signs that there are problems and challenges in your personal finances requiring attention No Savings Account (less than $1,000 and you’re exponentially more at risk for bankruptcy) DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #8 Talking Points: Signs that there are problems and challenges in your personal finances requiring attention Minimum Payments (credit cards and how long it takes to pay off at minimum payments: 15-25 years and 3 times the original balance) DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #9 Talking Points: Signs that there are problems and challenges in your personal finances requiring attention Payday Loans (also Rent-to-Own, Title Loans, Pawn Shop, Tax Refund Anticipation Loans DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #10 Talking Points: Signs that there are problems and challenges in your personal finances requiring attention Working overtime “to cover basics” DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #11 Talking Points: Signs that there are problems and challenges in your personal finances requiring attention Not balancing checking account statement DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #12 Talking Points: Signs that there are problems and challenges in your personal finances requiring attention Declined card (or worried your card might be declined because you don’t know what the balance is or even what your credit limit is) DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #13 Talking Points: Signs that there are problems and challenges in your personal finances requiring attention Borrow from Family just to cover the basics DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #14 Talking Points: Signs that there are problems and challenges in your personal finances requiring attention 20% or more of your take home pay is going towards just the minimum payments on loans (excluding mortgage) DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #15 Talking Points: Signs that there are problems and challenges in your personal finances requiring attention If you’re putting off doctor visits because of money, your overall financial situation needs attention. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #16 Talking Points: Signs that there are problems and challenges in your personal finances requiring attention Stay awake at night worrying about finances: What if my car broke down? What if I lost my job? What ifs…? DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
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- #18 Stop the Slide! Live within means to avoid FURTHER DEBT DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #19 Create, post and live by a Spending Plan (The B-Word “Budget”) DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #20 Consider your spending habits. Change the bad ones and develop effective disciplined spending behaviors. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #21 Have the attendees repeat after you, “I Live by a Budget.” Use energy and make them “believe” it. Make them say it louder each time, just as the font grows larger. Once they’ve said it, they’ll remember telling themselves when they’re faced with a spending decision at the mall in the coming months. First time they say it loud and with energy Second time they should say it with enthusiasm, belief and emotional buy in. Last time with conviction, like no one will every talk them out of it. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #22 Have the attendees repeat after you, “I Live by a Budget.” Use energy and make them “believe” it. Make them say it louder each time, just as the font grows larger. Once they’ve said it, they’ll remember telling themselves when they’re faced with a spending decision at the mall in the coming months. First time they say it loud and with energy Second time they should say it with enthusiasm, belief and emotional buy in. Last time with conviction, like no one will every talk them out of it. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #23 Have the attendees repeat after you, “I Live by a Budget.” Use energy and make them “believe” it. Make them say it louder each time, just as the font grows larger. Once they’ve said it, they’ll remember telling themselves when they’re faced with a spending decision at the mall in the coming months. First time they say it loud and with energy Second time they should say it with enthusiasm, belief and emotional buy in. Last time with conviction, like no one will every talk them out of it. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #24 Have the attendees repeat after you, “I Live by a Budget.” Use energy and make them “believe” it. Make them say it louder each time, just as the font grows larger. Once they’ve said it, they’ll remember telling themselves when they’re faced with a spending decision at the mall in the coming months. First time they say it loud and with energy Second time they should say it with enthusiasm, belief and emotional buy in. Last time with conviction, like no one will every talk them out of it. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #25 Talking Points: Confession time: We are all “guilty” of exhibiting one or more of these poor spending behaviors. You may even consider having the participants raise their hand if they can identify with the behavior as you explain it. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #26 Talking Points: Confession time: We are all “guilty” of exhibiting one or more of these poor spending behaviors. You may even consider having the participants raise their hand if they can identify with the behavior as you explain it. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #27 Talking Points: Confession time: We are all “guilty” of exhibiting one or more of these poor spending behaviors. You may even consider having the participants raise their hand if they can identify with the behavior as you explain it. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #28 Talking Points: Confession time: We are all “guilty” of exhibiting one or more of these poor spending behaviors. You may even consider having the participants raise their hand if they can identify with the behavior as you explain it. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #29 Talking Points: Confession time: We are all “guilty” of exhibiting one or more of these poor spending behaviors. You may even consider having the participants raise their hand if they can identify with the behavior as you explain it. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #30 Talking Points: Confession time: We are all “guilty” of exhibiting one or more of these poor spending behaviors. You may even consider having the participants raise their hand if they can identify with the behavior as you explain it. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #31 Talking Points: Disciplined Spenders Spending Plan Spend time with money (balancing, projecting, planning) DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
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- #54 What kind of difference would the PowerCash method make on a $15,000 credit card debt? It would be paid off 17 years earlier Minimum Payment Option: making only the minimum payments every month, with NO PowerCash (starts at $431) PowerCash & Savings: $481/month. After paying off credit card, goes into Savings account returning average 2.5% PowerCash & Bonds: $481/month. After paying off credit card, goes into Bonds returning average 6% PowerCash & Stocks: $481/month. After paying off credit card, goes into Stocks returning average 9% (historical average annual return of S&P since it started. Even investing in Dow Jones on eve of 1929 crash earns returns positive $$$ at 30 years) DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #55 What kind of difference would the PowerCash method make on a $15,000 credit card debt? It would be paid off 17 years earlier Minimum Payment Option: making only the minimum payments every month, with NO PowerCash (starts at $431) PowerCash & Savings: $481/month. After paying off credit card, goes into Savings account returning average 2.5% PowerCash & Bonds: $481/month. After paying off credit card, goes into Bonds returning average 6% PowerCash & Stocks: $481/month. After paying off credit card, goes into Stocks returning average 9% (historical average annual return of S&P since it started. Even investing in Dow Jones on eve of 1929 crash earns returns positive $$$ at 30 years) DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #56 What kind of difference would the PowerCash method make on a $15,000 credit card debt? It would be paid off 17 years earlier Minimum Payment Option: making only the minimum payments every month, with NO PowerCash (starts at $431) PowerCash & Savings: $481/month. After paying off credit card, goes into Savings account returning average 2.5% PowerCash & Bonds: $481/month. After paying off credit card, goes into Bonds returning average 6% PowerCash & Stocks: $481/month. After paying off credit card, goes into Stocks returning average 9% (historical average annual return of S&P since it started. Even investing in Dow Jones on eve of 1929 crash earns returns positive $$$ at 30 years) DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #57 What kind of difference would the PowerCash method make on a $15,000 credit card debt? It would be paid off 17 years earlier Minimum Payment Option: making only the minimum payments every month, with NO PowerCash (starts at $431) PowerCash & Savings: $481/month. After paying off credit card, goes into Savings account returning average 2.5% PowerCash & Bonds: $481/month. After paying off credit card, goes into Bonds returning average 6% PowerCash & Stocks: $481/month. After paying off credit card, goes into Stocks returning average 9% (historical average annual return of S&P since it started. Even investing in Dow Jones on eve of 1929 crash earns returns positive $$$ at 30 years) DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #58 What kind of difference would the PowerCash method make on a $15,000 credit card debt? It would be paid off 17 years earlier Minimum Payment Option: making only the minimum payments every month, with NO PowerCash (starts at $431) PowerCash & Savings: $481/month. After paying off credit card, goes into Savings account returning average 2.5% PowerCash & Bonds: $481/month. After paying off credit card, goes into Bonds returning average 6% PowerCash & Stocks: $481/month. After paying off credit card, goes into Stocks returning average 9% (historical average annual return of S&P since it started. Even investing in Dow Jones on eve of 1929 crash earns returns positive $$$ at 30 years) DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #59 What kind of difference would the PowerCash method make on a $15,000 credit card debt? It would be paid off 17 years earlier Minimum Payment Option: making only the minimum payments every month, with NO PowerCash (starts at $431) PowerCash & Savings: $481/month. After paying off credit card, goes into Savings account returning average 2.5% PowerCash & Bonds: $481/month. After paying off credit card, goes into Bonds returning average 6% PowerCash & Stocks: $481/month. After paying off credit card, goes into Stocks returning average 9% (historical average annual return of S&P since it started. Even investing in Dow Jones on eve of 1929 crash earns returns positive $$$ at 30 years) DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #60 No one gets into debt in the exact same way. Likewise, there’s no ONE way of getting out of debt. Discuss the different approaches before getting into examples. Prioritizing by “Importance” refers to covering repayment of “secured” debts first. This protects property from being repossessed or foreclosed on (cars and homes are most common “secured” debts). Interest rates (highest first) – this is generally the preferred method of many “debt experts” because it obviously saves the most in interest charges. Repaying the smallest debt first, though, is likely the best option for most people, not because it saves them money but because they see progress sooner and stay motivated to get through all the accounts. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #61 No one gets into debt in the exact same way. Likewise, there’s no ONE way of getting out of debt. Discuss the different approaches before getting into examples. Prioritizing by “Importance” refers to covering repayment of “secured” debts first. This protects property from being repossessed or foreclosed on (cars and homes are most common “secured” debts). Interest rates (highest first) – this is generally the preferred method of many “debt experts” because it obviously saves the most in interest charges. Repaying the smallest debt first, though, is likely the best option for most people, not because it saves them money but because they see progress sooner and stay motivated to get through all the accounts. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #62 No one gets into debt in the exact same way. Likewise, there’s no ONE way of getting out of debt. Discuss the different approaches before getting into examples. Prioritizing by “Importance” refers to covering repayment of “secured” debts first. This protects property from being repossessed or foreclosed on (cars and homes are most common “secured” debts). Interest rates (highest first) – this is generally the preferred method of many “debt experts” because it obviously saves the most in interest charges. Repaying the smallest debt first, though, is likely the best option for most people, not because it saves them money but because they see progress sooner and stay motivated to get through all the accounts. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #63 No one gets into debt in the exact same way. Likewise, there’s no ONE way of getting out of debt. Discuss the different approaches before getting into examples. Prioritizing by “Importance” refers to covering repayment of “secured” debts first. This protects property from being repossessed or foreclosed on (cars and homes are most common “secured” debts). Interest rates (highest first) – this is generally the preferred method of many “debt experts” because it obviously saves the most in interest charges. Repaying the smallest debt first, though, is likely the best option for most people, not because it saves them money but because they see progress sooner and stay motivated to get through all the accounts. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #64 Example situation. Total Payout is based on making only the minimum payments on each account. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #65 Example of dealing with debt on a “Property” basis. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #66 Example of dealing with debt on a “Property” basis. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #67 Animated example of dealing with debt on the highest “APR” (interest rate): Make minimum payment to property debt on top above all else. Add $50 PowerCash to next debt on list till paid off. Rather than approximately $32,400, total paid is about $27,340 ($5,070 saved) First debt (Retail Store Card) is paid off in just over one year. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #68 Animated example of dealing with debt on the highest “APR” (interest rate): Make minimum payment to property debt on top above all else. Add $50 PowerCash to next debt on list till paid off. Rather than approximately $32,400, total paid is about $27,340 ($5,070 saved) First debt (Retail Store Card) is paid off in just over one year. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #69 Animated example of dealing with debt on the lowest “Balance” basis. Again, add the $50 PowerCash to the debt payment at the top of the list First debt (Gas Card) is paid off in just 7 months (the 7 th payment is just $9) The debts are all repaid in the same amount of time as the highest APR, but you pay an additional ($24). That’s a small price to pay for the motivation to stick with the debt repayment program. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #70 Animated example of dealing with debt on the lowest “Balance” basis. Again, add the $50 PowerCash to the debt payment at the top of the list First debt (Gas Card) is paid off in just 7 months (the 7 th payment is just $9) The debts are all repaid in the same amount of time as the highest APR, but you pay an additional ($24). That’s a small price to pay for the motivation to stick with the debt repayment program. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #71 Discuss importance of these issues when dealing with third party professionals. Is reputable Is well established (not a “fly by night”). Has a Better Business Bureau history. Is audited and accredited by an independent third-party. Offers all contracts & agreements in writing. Discloses all initial and ongoing fees up front. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #72 If presenting at a conference or as a guest speaker, please give a disclaimer that we are a nonprofit credit counseling agency, that we’re not making a sales pitch, but understanding what credit counseling is can be an invaluable step to getting out of debt. From the US Congress to the Executive Office of the United States Trustees, credit counseling is recognized as a legitimate resource for individuals overwhelmed with debt. Possible wording in addition to the above type of disclaimer could be, “If you’re not interested in credit counseling, please cover your ears or feel free to daydream for a moment. I’ll bring you back in just 60 seconds.” Major misconceptions, from Joe and Jane Public to Mortgage Lenders and Underwriters: Confused with Debt Negotiations or Settlements (more details in a moment) Clients repay $4$ their debt. NOT the same as Chapter 13 Bankruptcy (“wage earners”) Notation on credit keeps clients from getting further unsecured debt (credit cards). Comes off at end of program with no lasting indication of participation. That’s a POSITIVE!!! FICO score does NOT take it into account. (if you have time and if it is appropriate, you can get into the discussion of how closing accounts on a DMP may temporarily affect the Balance-to-Limit ratio of a credit score that can account for up to 30% of the total score. However, with 3-5 years of on-time payments through the DMP, and the elimination of the balances, credit scores would most likely end up much better than before). DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #73 If presenting at a conference or as a guest speaker, please give a disclaimer that we are a nonprofit credit counseling agency, that we’re not making a sales pitch, but understanding what credit counseling is can be an invaluable step to getting out of debt. From the US Congress to the Executive Office of the United States Trustees, credit counseling is recognized as a legitimate resource for individuals overwhelmed with debt. Possible wording in addition to the above type of disclaimer could be, “If you’re not interested in credit counseling, please cover your ears or feel free to daydream for a moment. I’ll bring you back in just 60 seconds.” Major misconceptions, from Joe and Jane Public to Mortgage Lenders and Underwriters: Confused with Debt Negotiations or Settlements (more details in a moment) Clients repay $4$ their debt. NOT the same as Chapter 13 Bankruptcy (“wage earners”) Notation on credit keeps clients from getting further unsecured debt (credit cards). Comes off at end of program with no lasting indication of participation. That’s a POSITIVE!!! FICO score does NOT take it into account. (if you have time and if it is appropriate, you can get into the discussion of how closing accounts on a DMP may temporarily affect the Balance-to-Limit ratio of a credit score that can account for up to 30% of the total score. However, with 3-5 years of on-time payments through the DMP, and the elimination of the balances, credit scores would most likely end up much better than before). DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #74 Talking Points: If the lender touts “quick and easy,” read that to mean, “expensive” Payday Loans 350%+ annualized interest rates From a report, the average first time payday loan borrower will have 8 payday loans within a year From same report, they target women more than men Title Loans Quick loan against the value of your vehicle (pink slip) APR usually starts around 200% Can generally only borrow about 30-50% of what the LENDER SAYS the car is worth Usually one lump payment due after short period (usually a month or so) Be aware of rolling over the loan and paying additional fees Will lose your car if you don’t pay as agreed Known in some states as “Sales and Leasebacks” or “Car Pawns” Rent to Own Total payments work out to be 1½ to 7 times the retail cost. That means that if you were to be patient for one year, putting those same payments in your savings, you could buy several of the items plus have earned some interest. Advertised payments are often weekly payments If even one payment is missed, the store can take back the household goods and you lose the value of all of the payments Tax Refund Anticipation Loan Some who set up shop in discount retailers will offer a Tax RAL, saying that you can walk out of the store TODAY with 50% of your loan and the balance tomorrow. Balance is the other 50% minus hefty fees, ranging from about 40-700% APR Pawn Loans Works out to around 100% APR Usually loans are for 30 days. Pawn Loans average $70-100 though can be for as little as $20 or several thousand depending upon item. Overdraft Protection Going into overdraft might trigger a flat fee or a daily fee until the overdraft is repaid. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #75 Talking Points: If the lender touts “quick and easy,” read that to mean, “expensive” Payday Loans 350%+ annualized interest rates From a report, the average first time payday loan borrower will have 8 payday loans within a year From same report, they target women more than men Title Loans Quick loan against the value of your vehicle (pink slip) APR usually starts around 200% Can generally only borrow about 30-50% of what the LENDER SAYS the car is worth Usually one lump payment due after short period (usually a month or so) Be aware of rolling over the loan and paying additional fees Will lose your car if you don’t pay as agreed Known in some states as “Sales and Leasebacks” or “Car Pawns” Rent to Own Total payments work out to be 1½ to 7 times the retail cost. That means that if you were to be patient for one year, putting those same payments in your savings, you could buy several of the items plus have earned some interest. Advertised payments are often weekly payments If even one payment is missed, the store can take back the household goods and you lose the value of all of the payments Tax Refund Anticipation Loan Some who set up shop in discount retailers will offer a Tax RAL, saying that you can walk out of the store TODAY with 50% of your loan and the balance tomorrow. Balance is the other 50% minus hefty fees, ranging from about 40-700% APR Pawn Loans Works out to around 100% APR Usually loans are for 30 days. Pawn Loans average $70-100 though can be for as little as $20 or several thousand depending upon item. Overdraft Protection Going into overdraft might trigger a flat fee or a daily fee until the overdraft is repaid. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #76 Talking Points: Disclaimer, again: we are NOT bankruptcy attorneys and do not give legal advice regarding individual situations where bankruptcy might be an option. Settlement/Negotiation Charge Offs damage credit for 7 years May still be sued in the future May have to pay taxes on amount forgiven Settlement company takes a heft % For some people who already have trashed credit, settlement might buy additional time, but bankruptcy might be a better option as it eliminates much of the individual’s legal liability to repay debts, whereas settlements often don’t. The savings are NOT always as clear as settlement companies make them out to be: here’s an example of fees and costs of a $10,000 debt settled at 60% for $6,000: Settlement Company’s Fee: $1,000 (25% of written off debt) Possible taxes on forgiven debt: $1,000 (25% tax bracket) Total Out of Pocket: $8,000 Total Savings: $2,000, but your credit is trashed for 7 years, you may still quite likely be sued by the credit, and you’re very likely to receive collection calls day and night throughout the process. Bankruptcy On credit report for 10 years Requires credit counseling & educational course Ignoring Debt Leads to court and judgments, wage garnishments, repossessions, foreclosure DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #77 Talking Points: Disclaimer, again: we are NOT bankruptcy attorneys and do not give legal advice regarding individual situations where bankruptcy might be an option. Settlement/Negotiation Charge Offs damage credit for 7 years May still be sued in the future May have to pay taxes on amount forgiven Settlement company takes a heft % For some people who already have trashed credit, settlement might buy additional time, but bankruptcy might be a better option as it eliminates much of the individual’s legal liability to repay debts, whereas settlements often don’t. The savings are NOT always as clear as settlement companies make them out to be: here’s an example of fees and costs of a $10,000 debt settled at 60% for $6,000: Settlement Company’s Fee: $1,000 (25% of written off debt) Possible taxes on forgiven debt: $1,000 (25% tax bracket) Total Out of Pocket: $8,000 Total Savings: $2,000, but your credit is trashed for 7 years, you may still quite likely be sued by the credit, and you’re very likely to receive collection calls day and night throughout the process. Bankruptcy On credit report for 10 years Requires credit counseling & educational course Ignoring Debt Leads to court and judgments, wage garnishments, repossessions, foreclosure DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #78 Talking Points: Discuss types of scams and rip-offs going around. Credit Increase: Caller informs you that your credit limit has been increased and asks for your card number and/or other identifying information to “confirm” the card. They may even have the card number and just ask for the 3-4 digit security code. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #79 Talking Points: Discuss types of scams and rip-offs going around. Collections and Cards: Collection agencies may offer a card to which you can transfer the balance due. Usually it will have more fees. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #80 Talking Points: Discuss types of scams and rip-offs going around. Craig’s List: Be very careful of people who send you links that look like they belong to legitimate businesses but actually link you to their own. eBay Motors has been used in this way a lot for the sale of nonexistent cars. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #81 Talking Points: Discuss types of scams and rip-offs going around. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #82 These tips may be simple but they’re not easy. It will take commitment. Budget, budget, budget, budget, budget , budget , budget , budget , budget , budget … Spend LESS and Earn MORE Save for a rainy day (everyone gets sick, most will be “between” jobs at some point) 3-6 months of monthly priority expenses (housing, food, transportation, utilities, bills, etc) available in emergency funds. “ BEFORE YOU LOSE YOUR MARBLES,” for outside help, turn to a trusted, established, and accredited business that will address the real issue. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #83 These tips may be simple but they’re not easy. It will take commitment. Budget, budget, budget, budget, budget , budget , budget , budget , budget , budget … Spend LESS and Earn MORE Save for a rainy day (everyone gets sick, most will be “between” jobs at some point) 3-6 months of monthly priority expenses (housing, food, transportation, utilities, bills, etc) available in emergency funds. “ BEFORE YOU LOSE YOUR MARBLES,” for outside help, turn to a trusted, established, and accredited business that will address the real issue. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #84 These tips may be simple but they’re not easy. It will take commitment. Budget, budget, budget, budget, budget , budget , budget , budget , budget , budget … Spend LESS and Earn MORE Save for a rainy day (everyone gets sick, most will be “between” jobs at some point) 3-6 months of monthly priority expenses (housing, food, transportation, utilities, bills, etc) available in emergency funds. “ BEFORE YOU LOSE YOUR MARBLES,” for outside help, turn to a trusted, established, and accredited business that will address the real issue. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #85 These tips may be simple but they’re not easy. It will take commitment. Budget, budget, budget, budget, budget , budget , budget , budget , budget , budget … Spend LESS and Earn MORE Save for a rainy day (everyone gets sick, most will be “between” jobs at some point) 3-6 months of monthly priority expenses (housing, food, transportation, utilities, bills, etc) available in emergency funds. “ BEFORE YOU LOSE YOUR MARBLES,” for outside help, turn to a trusted, established, and accredited business that will address the real issue. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09
- #86 Try to be available for 10-15 minutes to answer questions and address individual concerns. DC:19785 Rev: 0 1.21.09