I like Erin’s basic tips. They are a good start on how to stop going more into debt. There is a whole lot more on how to get out of debt, but this definitely the place to start. For those of you living hand to mouth, wondering how to get to the next pay day, this is where you start.

1. Stop Using Your Credit Cards

2. Ask For a Lower Rate

3. Consider a Balance Transfer

4. Make Payments Automatically

5. Spend Smarter

Once you have got this under control, now you need to look at Dave Ramsay’s Seven Steps for getting out of debt which is a lot more comprehensive. Dave’s steps are about getting on top of the debt, reigning in spending, having a safety buffer, then setting yourself up for financial independence and philanthropy.

This is all hard, difficult work. I wish you all the best in your quest to stop debt controlling your life.

1. Set up an Emergency Fund
2. Tackle your debt with the Debt Snowball
3. Save 3-6 months expenses
4. Invest 15 percent
5. College Fund
6. Pay off home loan
7. Build wealth and give

Related articles

• Credit Cards and Retirement Planning (myretirementblog.com)
• How to Quickly Clear Your Credit Cards (helpwithdebtnow.com)