If debt problems have just begun....

[DebtDr]

Just starting to hit those debt problems?

Acting sooner rather than later is the key to taking
control of your debts particularly if you are running
out of money before the end of every month and
creditors are missing payments that are due to them.
There are 6 steps to managing your debts which are
available by e-mailing me. In conjunction with the
6 steps to debt help and advice there may be some
other options:
• The Ebay phenomena means that you can easily
   sell unwanted items
• Get a part-time job to suit your lifestyle
• Get a lodger
• Reduce your expenditure
• Ask your boss for a raise

Sell unwanted items
Everybody has stuff they don't need or use. Ebay is a
great way to sell those items and make a little more
money. Will a few of those items be enough to get
you back on top of your bills? Don't like internet selling?
Well get yourself off to the local car boot sale.

Get that part-time job
Realistically work out if you can take on an extra job.
Maybe you are in a boring office job and have always
wanted to try something different. Why not go and
apply for some work at the local hospice, factory or
bar? It'll get you out of the home, spending less,
earning more and increasing your circle of friends
and contacts too.

Get a lodger
OK so you'd prefer your own space but the extra
money that a lodger could provide can be considerable.
Take time to find suitable people to share your home
with. One friend I have, even ended up finding his wife
when she came to stay for 2 years!

Reduce your expenditure
It should go without saying that you must cut out all
luxuries, but see whether you can go further. It doesn't
hurt to stay in an extra night or two every week.
Renting a video costs about the same as one drink
down the local and you can choose who gets to spend
time in your company. There are other ways to cut
your costs but do be ruthless. If this resolves your
debt trouble then that's all for the better.

Ask your boss for a raise
Well, if there's a debt issue looming then it's
definitely time to bite the bullet and ask for
that raise. Get clear and concise examples
of events and milestones that you've achieved
since your last review. Explain, in detail, what
you will achieve over the coming months and
also try to negotiate the sort of raise you want
for the coming work appraisals should you meet
those targets. Work towards those targets and
use any extra income to reduce your debt.
Do face up to financial problems as soon as
possible in order to start resolving them. Whatever
problems you are facing, try to be positive, as there
may still be solutions. There are plenty of sources
of expert advice.