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Get smart with your money

debt management plans

Wednesday’s need-to-know money news

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teen-creditToday’s top story: What it takes to succeed on a debt management plan. Also in the news: How to stash cash and still eat well in college, using price matching to save, and how to prepare your finances for a layoff.

What It Takes to Succeed on a Debt Management Plan
Staying on track.

5 Ways to Stash Cash and Still Eat Well in College
You don’t have to live on ramen.

Use Price Matching to Avoid Leaving Money on the Table
Getting the lowest price available.

Prepare Your Finances for a Layoff
Preparing for life without a paycheck.

Do debt management plans work?

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Nonprofit credit counselors are the good guys in the debt relief industry, which is otherwise full to bursting with lies, scams and sketchy players.

That said, credit counselors need to acknowledge that their signature offering – the debt management plan – doesn’t work for everyone.

In my latest for the Associated Press, find out when declaring bankruptcy is a better option than credit counseling.

Friday’s need-to-know money news

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Today’s top story: What kids can learn about money by having a savings account. Also in the news: A guide to debt management, the easiest way to cut your 2015 tax bill, and how Uncle Sam is trying to help you save.

What a Savings Account Can Teach Your Child About Money
Good money habits start early.

How Does Debt Management Work?
A guide to wrangling your debt.

Here’s the Easiest Way to Cut Your Tax Bill Now
There’s still time to shelter some of your income.

How Uncle Sam wants to help you get ready to retire
The government wants you to start saving.

In debt and need cash? Payday loans are not your only option. RSVP for the NerdWallet & NAACP webinar on March 1 at 5pm to learn about alternatives.

Huge debts? Where to find help

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Dear Liz: My husband and I are in a huge amount of debt. I understand that there are nonprofit agencies that can sit down with us and help us develop repayment plans and strategies. How do I find a reputable one?

Answer: Contact the National Foundation for Credit Counseling at (800) 388-2227 for a referral to a legitimate, accredited, nonprofit credit counseling agency in your area. A counselor can review your financial situation, help you with budgeting and see whether you’re a candidate for a debt management plan, which would allow you to pay off your credit card debt over time, perhaps at a lower interest rate.

You also should consider making an appointment with an experienced bankruptcy attorney. You can get referrals from the National Assn. of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys at http://www.nacba.org. A credit counselor may try to steer you away from bankruptcy, whereas an attorney can let you know if it might be a better option.

Unfortunately, many people wait too long before they contact a credit counselor. They may be approved for a debt management plan but find themselves unable to stick with the plan long enough to pay off their debt. In other words, they continue to struggle with debt that they ultimately can’t pay. Understanding all your options, including bankruptcy, can help you make a better choice about what to do next.