Archive for July, 2009

Debt Consolidation Plans

There are a few different types of loans that should be considered when taking out a debt consolidation loan. A home equity line of credit is a great option for many people that have a good amount of equity in their home. Cash-out refinancing could be another good option depending on your situation, while obtaining a personal loan does not require putting up any collateral.

Home Equity Line of Credit: This implies that you have a mortgage out on your home and you want to take some equity out on it to pay off other debts. This option is your best chance to get the cheapest interest rate possible because your home is being used as collateral and you’ve clearly been able to pay down the mortgage since there is equity in your home. You have equity in your house if you owe less on your house than what it is worth.

Cash-Out Refinancing: This is the next best option because your house can be used as collateral to secure a loan. Cash-out financing consists of taking out a new mortgage that is greater than the one you already have. This can be beneficial because your other debts will be paid off in full and your interest payments will be less.

Personal Loan: Does not require your house be used as collateral. The loan interest rate is not as good as a home equity line of credit or cash-out options, but is still better than most credit card interest rates.

What Type of Savings Account is best for You?

When trying to save money, there are various types of accounts which can be opened through a credit union, bank or other financial institution. Through these types of accounts which can be opened, the individual can take advantage of the higher rates which are associated with savings accounts – compared to traditional checking accounts.

A high interest savings account can be opened through the use of the internet, or through the use of the bank. This type of account comes with low fees and is internet based, but each transaction can cost as much as $5.00 and therefore this account should be used minimally, to make deposits only.

A money market account is similar, in which minimum deposit limits and balance limits must be adhered to. Through these accounts, the individual has access to limited transactions each month. A money market account is popular for those seeking the highest level of interest which can be obtained through the type of savings account that has been acquired and therefore is popular for those seeking to have their money work for them, but with little access to the funds within the account – at higher rates.
A traditional savings account also comes with higher interest rates than a traditional checking account and often without the deposit limits associated with other accounts.