CANADA – Becoming debt free takes time and dedication. It’s best to have a clear plan that outlines the steps you should take each month to get closer to your goals over time. Here are a few tips for putting your plan on paper:
1) Assess your debt. Make a list of everything you owe, who you owe and when the payment is due. Be sure to note the interest rate and monthly payment amount, separating out how much goes towards interest as opposed to principal.
Next, add up the individual debts to find your total outstanding balance, and how much you are paying each month in interest to service those debts. Talk to a financial advisor about possible ways to structure your debt and potentially lower your interest costs.
2) Set priorities. It’s essential to make at least the minimum payment due on each debt to avoid penalties and to keep your credit rating intact. Beyond the minimum, focus your attention first on the debts that are costing you the most — those with the highest interest rate.
3) Establish a timeline. Like any goal, it’s helpful to have a deadline; it gives you a “finish line” to work towards. Keep it realistic and achievable. This is where it can really help to talk to a financial advisor.
– CIBC is a leading Canadian-based global financial institution with nearly 11 million personal banking and business clients. Through their three major business units – Retail and Business Banking, Wealth Management and Wholesale Banking – CIBC offers a full range of products and services through its comprehensive electronic banking network, branches and offices across Canada with offices in the United States and around the world. You can find other news releases and information about CIBC in our Media Centre on our corporate website at www.cibc.com.
