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Is Debt Consolidation Bad for Your Credit?You might consolidate your debts into one loan in various ways, if you qualify. You could take out a home equity loan for the total amount you owe in credit cards and other consumer debt. You could put several credit card balances onto only one lower-rate card. If I consolidate my credit cards, can I still use them, unsecured by collateral, to cover the total debt amount. But if you regularly over-spend and are not planning to change your behavior, then a debt consolidation loan just becomes a Band-Aid. Repeating mistakes will only put you in deeper debt. Can you afford the loan?Let’s say you’re determined to mend your ways and a debt consolidation loan is one option. You’ll replace lots of payments with one bigger payment. But be sure it fits into your budget. Consider, too, the total you’ll pay over the life of the loan. One of the disadvantages of debt consolidation is when you convert it into a 15-year home equity loan or unsecured loan. By doing so, you’ll be stretching a five-year debt to 15 years. You could end up paying as much or more in total interest and principal. The total payment is key, not just the monthly payment. Can you trust the lender?Some lenders give loans to anybody just to make a buck. A reputable lender, like Oklahoma Central Credit Union, has your best interests at heart. We will work with you to find a loan that fits your budget. Oklahoma Central Credit Union's low rates and flexible terms make for affordable payments. Want even more convenience? Arrange for automatic payments or payroll deductions to seamlessly get your loan paid off. |