TRYING so hard NOT to use credit cards..

iVillage Member
Registered: 09-15-2004
TRYING so hard NOT to use credit cards..
3
Wed, 09-03-2008 - 3:40pm

Today I had to though. I needed to order my books for my college classes. I was upset because 90% of the books I can buy used. This time I had to buy new, and was not happy.


I am snowballing my 24.9% interest credit card.


I really am trying to spend less money. My atm fees get me, and gas. Instead of paying $200.00 a month for riding lessons, I am cleaning stalls two days a week.


My goal is to have the credit cards paid off in 6 months, and than start paying off the HELOC and student loans.

iVillage Member
Registered: 11-17-2007
Wed, 09-03-2008 - 6:43pm

If you got the credit I would apply for a credit card that is lower interest that way more of your money will go on the debt then into interest.


Mary Ann


iVillage Member
Registered: 07-14-2008
Wed, 09-03-2008 - 7:30pm
I too struggle with not using credit cards. Don't get too frustrated with yourself. Work towards getting debt free. If it takes a bit longer than you hope, it is okay, as long as you get there, eventually.
Tara





iVillage Member
Registered: 04-10-2003
Thu, 09-04-2008 - 9:09am

Don't be too hard on yourself. Its a challenge to give up the plastic habit! I am still struggling with it after a year (mainly because I have bills that go straight on my CC )


If bank and ATM fees are killing you, could you start a cash diet? I finally realized (again after 10 months) that using my debit or putting things on CC just to pay off right away didn't work. I switched everything over to a branchless bank (no fees) and opened ING savings accounts (higher interest). Every payday I take out my spending/ grocery money for two weeks and thats what I have. Once its gone it gone. Its taken A LOT of small changes but its doable!


Good luck!


Bex -


"Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift -thats why its called the present."



Bex -