While debt-consolidation obviously has a positive reputation in regards to being the light at the end of a tunnel for most, there are also some negative aspects to look at as well. Essentially, the purpose of consolidating your debt (including loans, credit cards, and debt from specific bills) is to put it into one number and make it easier to manage.
It can be a daunting task to think you can pay for your debt if it is spread out in a multitude of areas. Keeping this in mind, here are a few negatives that you should pay close attention to before signing your name on the dotted line to consolidate your debt.
Finding a debt consolidator company right for you
When you are in the market of consolidating your debt, the number of companies available is not the problem that you have to worry about. Finding the right consolidator for you is what will become the major task.
It will be in your best interest if you compare and contrast multiple companies before making a final decision. The interest rates in which you will have to pay can vary depending on the debt consolidator. What you want is the lowest interest rate possible. If you rush too soon you may miss out on a great opportunity to not only pay back your debt, but save money in the long run.
High interest Rates Can Increase
Unfortunately, it seems that high interest rates are justification of the risk of helping your business. However false this assumption may be, if you miss a payment and do not consult with your debt company or agent specifically to set an alternative payment date, the interest rates could skyrocket even more. This is not a situation you want to be in as you are trying to pay off debt, so make sure that your monthly payments are manageable. In the worse case scenario, call your company and inform them of the situation at the moment.
Possibility of spending more money than you should
Once you begin to re-build your credit after the consolidated debt the improvements in your score will occur. A top-notch credit score may seem like a number you can get more credit with, but it is important you do not get too comfortable. If you end up spending more money than you are putting towards your debt, then you will simply set yourself up for disaster financially and in regards to your credit score.