The first thing a potential borrower must understand is that a debt consolidation loan in no way erases any of your debts. It simply transfers the whole amount to one creditor, and often at excessive interest rates. It also poses greater risks to you as a borrower, if you have pledged your home as collateral. Before getting a loan, consider whether the advantages are enough to offset risks.
Using a line of credit based on your home equity, has become a popular way for consumers to handle unexpected family expenses, or to pay off accumulated debts. But a home equity loan is not always the simplest option for you. Keep the following in mind: If you decide a home equity loan or line of credit is not for you, the law allows three days after opening an equity account to cancel it..
The words “debt consolidation” should mean one thing: a consolidation of all that you owe into one debt, and one payment. Unfortunately, this could turn into a debt consolidation loan, with an very high interest rate. Be sure to carefully read the terms of the debt consolidation agreement which is drawn up between you and your unsecured creditors. Find out if debt consolidation is for you.
Debt reduction and debt consolidation can help you to consolidate your unsecured debts like credit cards, student loans, bank lines of credit, medical bills, department store credit cards, collection agency accounts, etc. When you join a program you are having a credit counselor work on your behalf. They will negotiate with your creditors to help you get the lowest interest rates possible.
Debt consolidation is often associated with non-profit consumer credit counseling services. Although it may sound like a loan, debt consolidation is entirely different. Unlike a loan, your debt is "consolidated" and your interest rate reduced without the need for a loan. A credit card debt consolidation program will negotiate with your creditors. It's a "win-win" situation for the consumer.