Are you in control of your spending habits?
76% of people feel out of control with spending and their finances in general. 47% of people can’t handle an unexpected expense of $400.
The GOOD NEWS is – you don’t have to be stressed about your money or debt. If you feel out of control and live paycheck to paycheck, Credit Counseling Center can help you for free.
It’s never too late to become financially fit – regardless of your current financial condition.
We can help you:
- Set up regular contributions to your savings account
- Park your credit cards until they have a $0 balance
- Evaluate your spending habits
- Save for retirement
For the over 23 years, our certified counselors have helped thousands of people create a workable spending plan/budget, buy their first home, reduce debt and gain a lifetime of financial freedom. So that you can finally feel in control of how your spend your money.
Here are some questions that can help you determine if you are out of control with your spending:
Do you only pay the minimum on your credit card each month?
Paying only the minimum results in long-term high-interest charges that accumulate your debt. This makes it incredibly more difficult to pay off the balance in the future. It is important to pay as much as you can afford each month to reduce your balance and interest charges. However, there’s the debt snowball method, which is a strategy to only making a minimum payment on your credit cards, especially if you have more than one line of credit.
If you are struggling to make payments, you may want to consider reaching out to your credit card company to discuss options such as a lower interest rate or a payment plan. Additionally, you may want to seek advice from us, where a credit counselor will help you develop a plan to manage your credit card debt.
Do you owe thousands of dollars, then pay thousands in interest?
Credit card interest rates are typically high, and they can compound daily. Ultimately, interest charges can quickly accumulate and make it harder to pay off your debt. If you owe thousands of dollars on a credit card and you are only making minimum payments, you will likely pay thousands in interest over time. Take a look at our Debt Repayment chart for a closer look at how interest rates can affect your control over your spending.
Do you live paycheck-to-paycheck?
Unfortunately, this is all too common and challenges all ages demographics in our county. The good news is, you can break the cycle and gain control of your spending. Prioritizing debt payments, saving an emergency fund, trying to earn new or additional income and seeking help are all great first steps that you can take right now. It takes some time and effort – but remember that you are in control and achieve financial stability.
Do you have little or no savings?
One of the quickest ways to start saving cash is finding ways you can save in your current spending habits. Look for ways to reduce the money that is leaving your bank account, such as cutting back on eating out, canceling subscriptions you don’t need, or finding ways to lower utility bill.
Are you delinquent in your mortgage and in danger of losing your home?
It’s critically important to take action as soon as you can when you start experiencing financial difficulties. In some cases, simply contacting your lender and communicating about your situation sometimes generates different options or repayment plans. Credit Counseling Center staff provides guidance on your budgeting, debt management, and can even help stop the pending foreclosure of your home.
Are completely stressed out by your financial situation?
Seek help from us! If you’re struggling to make ends meet, don’t be afraid to seek help from a financial advisor or credit counselor who can provide guidance and support.
Are you considering bankruptcy to get control over your spending?
Filing for bankruptcy is a serious decision. Before deciding if bankruptcy is the correct option for you, it’s important to understand the consequences, requirements, and alternatives to bankruptcy on Bucks County, PA and beyond.
Though we primarily serve Pennsylvania residents, Credit Counseling Center can help anyone in the United States with Bankruptcy Counseling. Give us a call and let’s discuss your options, which can also include debt consolidation or debt settlement. Credit Counseling Center does not lend money directly, but we have experts who have guided thousands of people before you out of this situation.
Do you ask yourself at the end of every week, “where did my money go?”
Start by tracking your income and expenses for an entire month to get a clear picture of where your money is going. There are online services like Mint.com that you can connect your bank accounts to that help you set budgets. Then, create a budget that includes your monthly bills, debt payments, and other essential expenses. Make sure to include some money for savings and emergency expenses.
Be sure to check out our Budget Spreadsheet tool to get started.
All you have to lose is your Debt.
A certified financial coach will talk with you about your particular situation and work with you to come up with a solution.
The Credit Counseling Center is a non-profit organization that offers FREE financial coaching. Schedule your FREE in-person or online appointment today – 215-348-8003.
In 2021, Paula was named Executive Director of Credit Counseling Center. She joined the organization in 2008 as a Credit Counselor and was quickly promoted to Director of Housing Counseling in 2009. Paula is a firm believer that each client is a representation of a family whose lives, financial challenges, and needs are important.
She developed and still leads the Center’s Foreclosure Prevention program; and has partnered with the Bucks County Court of Common Pleas Foreclosure Diversion Program. Her keen focus on making a positive impact in the community has generated numerous program collaborations with the United Way of Bucks County and a multitude of social service organizations in the region.
Previously, Paula served 21 on Active Duty in the US Air Force. Initially serving as a combat photographer and finishing the second half of her career as a recruiter, leading to the position of Flight Chief. Highly decorated, she has received awards from the Air Force and the Department of Defense.
An active leader in the Bucks County community, Paula donates her time annually as a board member for the annual Congressional Service Academy Nomination Interviews under the office of Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick. She is an active Chamber member in Lower Bucks, BucksMont, and Upper Bucks, advocates for financial literacy education opportunities at venues servicing low/moderate income consumers and senior citizen organizations.
