Debt

A. The high cost of debt is keeping people from enjoying the full potential of their earnings. 1. According to the Deborah Fowles’ article “The High cost of Using Credit Cards,” “A $2000 TV at 18% will take over 30 years to pay off and cost $7000 in interest and principal if you only make the minimum payment each month.” 2. The same $40 per month payment invested at 8% would be worth over $60,000 in the same 30 years. Transition statement: Working to pay off credit card debt is not as hard as you think. B. Point 2: Devise a plan to pay off your credit card debt, and do it. 1. How do people pay off debt' a) According to Liz Weston from MoneyCenteral.MSN.COM “They made debt payoff a priority, although most continued to save for retirement as well” 2. Develop a personal plan to pay off debt on your own. This plan must fit you personally. There is no canned plan. a) Set your priorities to keep you on track and stick to them. b) Adjust priorities as needed as unexpected situations arise. 3. Get a professional debt planner to help you plan. Transition statement: Now that you have paid off your credit card debt, it’s time to enjoy the rewards. C. Point 3: You can enjoy the benefits of increased expendable income from paying off credit card debt. 1. The mental relief of not having the burden of debt is worth the sacrifice. a) According to Dr Philip Timms from The Royal College of Psychiatrists “Debt can cause - and be caused by - mental health problems. It's tempting to just not think about it – it can be uncomfortable and can make you feel guilty, depressed – or even hopeless. But sorting money problems out can help you to feel better – and to stay well.” 2. Save up for that needed vacation and other goals in life.