[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#e7dff3″ custom_padding=”0px||90px|||” bottom_divider_style=”ramp2″ bottom_divider_color=”#ffffff” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ header_2_font_size=”30px” custom_padding=”||16px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
by Kelly Gabriel<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row module_class=”custom_row” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ module_class=”vertical-align second-on-mobile” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]After months of stress from a growing pile of credit card statements and a continuous stream of aggressive collections calls and letters, maybe you\u2019ve decided that <\/a> is your best option for turning over a new leaf.<\/p>\n Lumping all the money you owe into a single debt through debt consolidation may feel like a big relief. After all, you don\u2019t need to stay on top of multiple creditors, you aren\u2019t missing payment due dates or deadlines, and there isn\u2019t the fear of steep interest rates going up even more.<\/p>\n But you aren\u2019t in the clear yet \u2014 a debt consolidation loan is only the first step in the process of getting your personal finances under control and getting out of debt. You still have major strides to make in your journey to become debt-free. While it\u2019s tempting to relax once you\u2019ve taken the steps to consolidate your credit card or other debt, if you aren\u2019t careful you could end up worse off than before you consolidated.<\/p>\n Here are 4 common debt consolidation mistakes to beware of and what to do instead:[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#ffffff” custom_padding=”||120px|||” bottom_divider_style=”curve2″ bottom_divider_color=”#e4f8e0″ da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||0px||true|” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.22.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||23px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Even if you get out of debt<\/a>, if you don\u2019t understand and learn from how you got into it in the first place, then you risk making the same mistakes in the future.<\/p>\n Debt consolidation can be a Band-Aid solution because you simply deal with the one monthly payment and keep trucking on with your spending. If you don\u2019t carefully consider how you ended up with a mountain of debt that you couldn\u2019t manage, you might never change the habits that got you into this situation.<\/p>\n Most debt consolidations cover at least $10,000-$15,000. It not only took time to get into that much debt, but it also took time to realize you were struggling to pay it back. That\u2019s why when you consolidate debt, you need to acknowledge the severity of the situation and take a closer look at how you got there.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/nomoredebts.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/avoid-debt-consolidation-mistakes_2colm.jpg” alt=”Avoid Debt Consolidation Mistakes” title_text=”avoid-debt-consolidation-mistakes” _builder_version=”4.22.0″ _module_preset=”default” border_radii=”off|200px|20px|200px|20px” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.22.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Debt consolidation is a good time to clean up your finances and reflect on how you manage your money. Recognize how you got into this position, what it\u2019ll take to get you out of it, and how to ensure it won\u2019t happen again.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#e4f8e0″ custom_padding=”||125px|||” bottom_divider_style=”curve2″ bottom_divider_color=”#ffffff” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.22.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n There\u2019s no single, one-size-fits-all way to consolidate your debts. There are plenty of consolidation options for you to choose from. These can range from moving all your credit card debts onto a single card in a balance transfer, putting them onto a line of credit, or applying for a secured or unsecured loan with the bank.<\/p>\n Because so many people struggle with debt, other lesser-known debt assistance options<\/strong> are also available that don\u2019t involve applying for more credit<\/em>. These include a\u00a0Debt Management Program<\/a>, a debt relief option which consolidates the payments of all of your unsecured debt into one affordable monthly payment, and a\u00a0Consumer Proposal<\/a>,\u00a0which consolidates and reduces your debt. While a Debt Management Program is a private and confidential option for people who are struggling with their debt, a Consumer Proposal is a legal process and form of insolvency that should only be used after other options have been explored first.<\/p>\n When you\u2019re looking for a debt consolidation loan and debt relief options, it’s very helpful to first meet with one of our non-profit credit counsellors<\/a> to ensure you know everything you need to about your debt. A credit counsellor will also help you put together a realistic budget to make sure your spending stays within your income, help you explore options and solutions to get out of debt<\/a>, and give you a plan to deal with your debt within a reasonable time frame.<\/p>\n Unfortunately, many people don\u2019t become debt-free quickly with consolidation loans. Without making changes to their spending, it\u2019s normal for them to continue spending more than they earn and build up more debt at the same time they\u2019re trying to pay down their consolidation loan. Working out a realistic budget with a credit counsellor and sticking to their plan to get out of debt<\/a> helps people avoid this common problem.<\/p>\n When consolidating debts, some people are too eager to set the wheels in motion with the first debt relief option that appeals to them, but it\u2019s worth looking at all the routes you can take and weighing their pros and cons.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/nomoredebts.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/debt-consolidation-meaning_feature_blog.jpg” alt=”Debt-consolidation” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.22.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Balance transfers, for example, could come with incredibly low interest rates at the start. However, the fine print can reveal pricey upfront fees, conditions to meet, and how long the promotional interest rate will apply. You must pay off all your consolidated debt before the promotional period is up to take advantage of the low interest rate. This is completely unrealistic for most people.<\/p>\n It’s important to do your homework and crunch every number before settling on the best choice for you and your finances. Carefully consider the longer-term effects of your decision as well, since some options can leave you with bad credit for many years after you\u2019ve paid back your debts. You can always ask a professional credit counsellor about the pros and cons of any options you\u2019re considering.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Choose the Right Debt Consolidation Plan for You<\/a><\/p>\n Figure out what you need to consolidate by listing your outstanding debts and their interest rates. You might find that some of your debts don\u2019t actually need to be consolidated and should remain separate. Examples include a loan at a very low interest rate or a government student loan where the interest can be offset on your income taxes. It\u2019s better to pay off credit cards or utility bills with small balances owing than consolidating them.<\/p>\n It\u2019s okay to feel overwhelmed with the idea of doing all of this. Whenever you need help, contact us<\/a> and a credit counsellor will guide you through the process.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#ffffff” custom_padding=”||120px|||” bottom_divider_style=”ramp2″ bottom_divider_color=”#e7dff3″ da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n If debt consolidation isn\u2019t done right, it can backfire. Let\u2019s use credit card consolidation<\/a><\/strong> as an example. When you pile all your credit card debt onto a single card or another loan, you effectively free up thousands of dollars in your wallet. If you\u2019re a spender, there\u2019s a chance you could turn to your cards again, causing the problem to start anew.<\/p>\n However, if you want to turn over a new leaf, it would be wise to limit your access to credit and limit your temptation to spend. If you tend to use your line of credit instead of your chequing account, ask your lender to change your credit line to \u201cdeposit only\u201d status. This allows you to make payments but not spend the available credit.<\/p>\n You can close and cut up any credit cards you don’t need if you think that’s the discipline you need, or you can put your credit cards on ice – literally freeze them in a big block of ice in your freezer. Then when you get the urge to use them, you’ll have time to think twice about your decision while the ice thaws.<\/p>\n Closing credit accounts will lower your credit score temporarily but maintaining a poor payment pattern will do worse damage. A little short-term pain can be worth a long-term gain. Your best bet is to keep a single card open, typically the one with the best and longest credit history. Hang onto this card for emergencies, but call the credit card company and lower its limit if you\u2019re worried that you\u2019ll start spending again.<\/p>\n How Credit Scores Are Calculated in Canada<\/a><\/p>\n While it’s true that closing many credit accounts at once may take a toll on your credit score, that\u2019s better than keeping the door open to excessive spending. Bad credit doesn\u2019t last forever if you don\u2019t let it. Your credit will naturally improve as you pay down your debt, and you can always apply for another credit card or loan once your financial situation has improved.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#e7dff3″ custom_padding=”||120px|||” bottom_divider_style=”curve2″ bottom_divider_color=”#ffffff” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Depending on which debt consolidation option you chose, you could find yourself only making minimum payments every month. This might be part of what got you into debt in the first place, so you don\u2019t want to spend forever trying to become debt-free. And if you add on more debt, then the journey will only get harder.<\/p>\n With some types of debt, there are defined deadlines. When debt repayment plans are carved out by credit counsellors, for example, the consumer and creditors agree that the debt will be repaid within 3-5 years. If your financial institution approves you for a debt consolidation loan, each payment brings you closer to a zero balance.<\/p>\n But balance transfers or lines of credit are handled on your own. You need to manage your budget in a way that allows you to diligently make payments to bring your balance owning down. When budgeting, figure out how much money you can realistically repay every month and automate that payment through your online banking.<\/p>\n Where to Find Money to Save and Pay Towards Debt Each Month<\/a><\/p>\n Stay accountable throughout the process and set checkpoints so you can see how you\u2019re doing. You might even learn you\u2019re ahead of schedule or decide that you want to pay off your debt consolidation faster, with a refund from your tax return, for example, or a tweak to your budget to increase your payments.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#ffffff” custom_padding=”||130px|||” bottom_divider_style=”ramp2″ bottom_divider_color=”#5b25af” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n While the point of debt consolidation is to simplify your debts and make repaying them easier and cheaper, choosing the right strategy can be complicated and expensive if mistakes are made. That\u2019s why we\u2019re here to help. Our credit counsellors are experts at guiding Canadians through their debt problems and towards the right solutions. Reach out to us toll-free at 1-888-527-8999<\/a>, send us an\u00a0email<\/a>, or\u00a0chat with us anonymously online<\/a>. Our appointments are free, confidential, and don\u2019t obligate you to anything further \u2013 you\u2019ve got nothing to lose but your debt.<\/p>\n Last Updated on October 18, 2024 <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" While debt consolidation might be your best option when you\u2019re struggling with multiple debts and want a fresh start, here are 4 common mistakes to avoid.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":15817,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","_lmt_disableupdate":"no","_lmt_disable":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[18],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-14355","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-debt-consolidation"],"yoast_head":"\nNot Fully Understanding How You Got Into Debt
Mistake 1<\/span><\/h2>\nThe Fix: Improve Your Money Management System<\/h3>\n
\n
Not Considering All Your Consolidation Options
Mistake 2<\/span><\/h2>\nWhere to Get Help to Consider All Your Debt Relief Options<\/h3>\n
The Fix: Weigh the Pros and Cons of Each Debt Consolidation Option<\/h3>\n
Not Changing How You Use Credit
Mistake 3<\/span><\/h2>\nThe Fix: Think Long-term with Your Credit Score<\/h3>\n
Not Having a Specific Pay-Off Date for the Debt Consolidation
Mistake 4<\/span><\/h2>\nWorried About Debt Consolidation Mistakes You Can’t Afford?
We’re Here to Help<\/span><\/h2>\n