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When your first card is paid off, take your minimum payment from the first card and pay it (in addition to the regular payment) to your second card. By the time you've paid off two or three cards, you should have a sizable amount of money to throw at your credit card balances.

6. Set a goal and write it down. Do you think you can pay off your credit cards in six months? 12 months? 18 months? Put it in writing and post it prominently, so you're reminded daily of what it is you would like to accomplish.

Some families do opt to consolidate their credit card debt through the use of a home equity loan. While this can be a valid option for homeowners, it can lead to trouble down the road. Because the debt is tied to your home, if you can't afford to pay the equity loan payment, you risk losing the roof over your head. Also, if spending habits don't change, you could be stuck with an equity loan and more credit card debt as little as six months later.

Some consumers have also tried to get credit card debt help through the use of credit card debt consolidation companies. While there may be success stories, there seems to be many complaints against these types of services. It's best to try to consolidate your debt on your own first before seeking the help of someone else. Be weary of credit card repair companies that charge an up-front fee for assistance or promise to pay your bills for you.

What if your family is behind on credit card payments? What if you have creditors hounding you at home and at work? The very worst thing you can do is to ignore your creditors. Communicate with them. Send them a copy of your plan. Tell them how much you can pay each month. They would rather have something than nothing. If you can only pay $35 toward your $75 minimum payment, send it. It's better than sending nothing at all.

Taking control of your credit card debt may not be easy at first, but the rewards are well worth the effort.

Additional information about credit card debt management can be found at: http://www.daveramsey.com , http://www.moneymanagement.org , and http://www.smartmoney.com/debt .

Learn more about this author, Starla Ross.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

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