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Bankruptcy
More than a million consumers file for bankruptcy every year. Why are so many Americans so overburdened with debt?
No matter what your income level is, financial difficulties can affect your life and the security of your family. The rules for smart money management are fairly basic. Live within your means. Set limits and priorities. Understand how and when to borrow. Credit is more easily obtained than ever before. To use credit wisely, you should know and understand repayment terms and the consequences of any agreement you sign.
We’ve all heard the horror stories: people losing their homes, families being destroyed. Those may be extreme situations, but families all over the country are being hurt by poor financial habits. Get educated! Learn how to balance your income with your outgo! And, for help, know that the first and best place to turn is your Credit nion. That’s because the Credit Union cares about your financial health. Within the Education section of the web site, you’ll find lots of tips and tools for efficiently managing your money. We hope you’ll find some of them helpful.
CONSIDER THIS: The National Bankruptcy Review Commission reports that credit unions work more with people facing financial difficulties than any other type of financial institution. In fact, many other lenders actually contribute to the escalating problem of consumer debt through irresponsible, sometimes predatory, lending practices.
WARNING SIGNAL #1 You’re at or near your credit limits.
WARNING SIGNAL #2 You can’t seem to make more than the minimum payments on your revolving charge accounts.
WARNING SIGNAL #3 You’re using more and more of your income to pay the bills.
WARNING SIGNAL #4 You’re now making payments in 60 or 90 days that you used to always make in 30.
WARNING SIGNAL #5 You’re borrowing money or using your credit card to pay for things you used to buy with cash.
WARNING SIGNAL #6 You're delaying trips to the doctor for financial reasons.
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