What to do if your credit card debt is starting to feel overwhelming
As the cost of living continues to rise, what steps can you take if your credit card is starting to feel like a problem?
Whitney Restall, from Wagga Wagga, NSW on Wiradjuri land, has struggled with credit card debt for nearly a decade. She explains how her situation developed, noting that she often maxed out her card and requested limit increases. Credit card debt has become a common issue, with the National Debt Helpline (NDH) handling the third most calls last year and second most inquiries via chat.
To tackle this problem, the NDH recommends creating a basic budget by reviewing bank statements, noting income, and identifying spending. Moneysmart.gov.au offers a free budget planner. Associate Professor Kirsten MacDonald from Griffith University suggests examining spending habits critically, distinguishing between needs and wants.
The next step involves assessing the level of help needed. If experiencing financial hardship, one can request changes from credit providers. For those without hardship but with revolving debt, the NDH advises checking the card's interest rate and exploring lower options such as balance transfers or balance consolidation loans, keeping in mind fees and conditions.
Dr. MacDonald also recommends debt consolidation for multiple credit cards or other debts, but warns about the potential drawbacks. Paying off credit card debt takes effort, as Whitney Restall discovered, but it is possible.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
