Often, it’s hard to see the forest through the trees when we don’t know what path to take.
Whatever your situation, don’t dispair as there is a solution for you. What you need to do is be wiling to take the time to learn about what debt relief options you have available and from there, make an educated decision about which one best fits your needs.

Here are 10 Indications that you may well be in financial trouble and that it’s time for you to take action:

…continue reading the article titled 10 Indications That You’ve Got Financial Problems

The American Bankers Association reported today that the percentage of credit card accounts 30 or more days past due rose to their highest levels since the association began collecting the information in 1973.

…continue reading the article titled Credit Card Debt Hits All Time High…

Hopefully, you’ll never find yourself in this situation but it’s best to be in the know about what steps to take should so that you’re fully prepared! read on…
Dee Dee Sung, www.debtfreediva.com

1. notify your insurance company to apprise them of your situation and that you’ll be making a claim.

2. make an itemized and detailed list of what you’ve lost (include pictures of belongings, if possible - in fact, good to take digital pictures of your valuable possessions beforehand) with dollar values. This is why it’s advisable to keep a home inventory in a safe place.

…continue reading the article titled Protect your Finances should disaster strike!

I write a column for The Detroit News and had the opportunity to address an interesting question that came in from one of my readers. I thought it would be valuable to share on this Debt Relief Blog! So read on…

If you have any questions you want to ask me, feel free to contact me at coach@debtfreediva.com

Q. In one of your past columns “Explore feelings, heal money woes” you mentioned Debt Settlement as one of the options of getting help with your credit card debt. Could you explain a little more about what Debt Settlement is exactly and how I would go about looking for a reputable company? What exactly does a Debt Settlement company need to be reputable and what do I need to look for in this company?

…continue reading the article titled Explaining Debt Settlement in Basic Terms

So many people write to me asking me what debt relief options are available to them for paying off and eliminating overwhelming credit card debt. There are different options available depending on if you’re behind on your payments or how severe your situation is…Read on, as I’ve listed them in an easy to understand manner. Above all, whatever route you take, make certain, the company you work with is credible and reputable and ultimately, one you trust! You can feel free to email me at coach@debtfreediva.com if you have questions or need further information on recommended companies to work with.

…continue reading the article titled Debt Relief Options Available for Paying Off Overwhelming Credit Card Debt

Debt got you down? You’re not alone. Consumer debt is at an all-time high.

What’s more, record numbers of consumers-nearly 1.5 million in 2001-are filing for bankruptcy. Whether your debt dilemma is the result of an illness, unemployment, or simply overspending, it can seem overwhelming. In your effort to get solvent, be on the alert for advertisements that offer seemingly quick fixes. While the ads pitch the promise of debt relief, they rarely say relief may be spelled b-a-n-k-r-u-p-t-c-y. And although bankruptcy is one option to deal with financial problems, it’s generally considered the option of last resort. The reason: its long-term negative impact on your creditworthiness. A bankruptcy stays on your credit report for 10 years, and can hinder your ability to get credit, a job, insurance, or even a place to live.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) cautions consumers to read between the lines when faced with ads in newspapers, magazines or even telephone directories that say:

“Consolidate your bills into one monthly payment without borrowing.”
“STOP credit harassment, foreclosures, repossessions, tax levies and garnishments,”
“Keep Your Property.”
“Wipe out your debts! Consolidate your bills! How? By using the protection and assistance provided by federal law. For once, let the law work for you!”

You’ll find out later that such phrases often involve bankruptcy proceedings, which can hurt your credit and cost you attorneys’ fees.

If you’ve been carrying a big credit card balance and suddenly need an extra $300 a month to make your minimum payments, now’s a good time to re-examine your finances. With some smart spending shifts and careful planning, virtually anyone can dig an extra 10 to 15% out of their budget.

Most credit card companies have raised minimum payments from 2% to 4% of your balance, meaning you’ll get out of debt much quicker. Here is a great article that discusses what you need to do.

PBS recently aired a documentary called “The Cement LifeRaft”. The two featured authors discussed the predatory lending practices of the mortgage and credit card industries. You can view the documentary and read the transcript here.