For a growing number of Americans, debt is a serious problem, and one that can sneak up on you. The first step toward controlling your debt is being aware of it. Once youve established that you need to consolidate and pay down your debt, the following ten possibilities may be useful to you.
10. If you have a 401-K or other employer-sponsored retirement account, borrow part of the money to pay down your debt. This should be used as a last resort, however. If you cannot pay the money back within five years, you will be assessed the taxes and penalties associated with the early withdrawal of the funds.
9. If you have life insurance, borrow money against your policy. Strictly speaking, you dont ever have to pay the amount back if you cant or dont want to, but it will be deducted from the amount paid to your beneficiaries. For this reason, planning to pay the money back is advisable.
8. Borrow the money from family or friends. It probably will save you interest, but the list of associated problems can include the potential for damaged personal relationships, the expectation of a return of the favor years down the road even after what you borrowed has been...