Signs of Debt Stress
Consumer debt in the US reached $13 trillion last year and continues to grow, an unfortunate side-effect of a strong economy. People feel safe in their jobs so they borrow instead of saving for the inevitable rainy day. As Americans carry more debt that'll have to be repaid with hard-earned dollars, there may be another cost as well. Debt can take an emotional toll! Today our host, financial planner and teacher Rob West, goes over the signs of debt-related stress. One of the components of consumer debt is personal loans - the fastest growing. One-quarter of personal loans are taken out for debt consolidation. Another 10% of people took out these loans to merely refinance existing debt! So many people are living beyond their means and are going deeper into debt. Depression, anxiety, irritability, and even memory and concentration problems are possible signs of debt-related stress in our lives. How does someone know when the stress of carrying too much debt is beginning to really have an impact? Lost productivity, poor work quality, and not keeping up with household chores are tell-tale signs of stress. Stressing over debt can also cause behavioral changes. Avoiding people (screening your calls in case it's a bill collector) or dreading going to the mailbox for fear you've received late notices are a couple of behavioral changes. No wonder Proverbs 22:7 reminds us, "The borrower is slave to the lender." Debt takes away your freedoms and options. In today's show we also answer your questions: -Can I use an HSA account for tax savings? -My husband and I have many retirement plans available to us. Between us we have a SEP account, an employee stock ownership plan, an IRA rollover, and a 401(k). What's the best one to be contributing to immediately? -I've been scammed! It was for $8,000. The scammer lured me into buying gift cards. Do I owe this amount? -I have a 401(k) with a previous employer. I now have a new job and that employer also offers a 401(k) plan that I've been contributing to. What should I do with that previous 401(k)? To ask your questions, call (800) 525-7000 or email them at [email protected]. Also, visit our website, moneywise.org, where you can connect with a MoneyWise Coach, purchase books, and even download free, helpful resources. Like and Follow us on Facebook at MoneyWise Media for videos and the very latest discussion! Help us continue our outreach by clicking the Donate tab at the top of the page.