If you’re beginning to feel overwhelmed by the amount of credit card debt you carry each month, you’re in good company. According to the financial site The Balance, “The average credit card debt per U.S. household was $8,398 in June 2019.” However, just because it’s a pervasive problem doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take credit card debt seriously. Afterall, it can seriously cramp your style. Here are a few options to consider if you need serious help eradicating your credit card debt.

Strategize Your Payments

If you have more than one credit card you may be carrying balances with different interest rates. Many financial advisors will council concentrating on the balance with the highest rate. Try to stop using that card and steer resources to paying it off completely. From there you would proceed to focus on the next highest rate card balance.

Consolidate Your Balances

Consolidating several credit card balances into a single monthly payment can sometimes be arranged through your bank. A consolidation loan can also kickstart the process to becoming debt-free; however, it is technically another form of debt that has its own associated interest and mandatory payments. Further, not everyone is a good candidate for this option—especially if their debt load is already high.

Negotiate Down Your Debt

It’s not the craziest idea to speak with your credit card company and request relief. Often they will allow you to skip a payment, or offer to issue a lower rate card and transfer balances. This can buy time to work out a more sustainable plan. Most credit card companies want to keep you as a customer. This strategy only works if the debt has not yet gone to collection.

Consult a Debt Relief Expert

If the thought of negotiating with banks, credit card companies, or collection agencies is daunting, a knowledgeable advocate can help. Debt relief services provide useful perspective, expertise, and encouragement to help you solve your debt issues. Most don’t charge a fee, and they can negotiate better terms with lenders and collectors as well as help devise a debt strategy to keep you on track with repayments.

With all the stress of being in debt, it’s vital to remember that you are not alone and that help is available. If you’re facing a mountain of fearsome debt, contacting the professionals at Progressive Debt Relief is the first step on the road to financial recovery. To take that step sooner rather than later, contact us today and schedule your complimentary consultation.