How Does Debt Consolidation Work?
Debt consolidation typically involves taking out a secured loan backed by property or another valuable asset. You use this loan to pay off all or part of your unsecured debts.
- For example:
- Current Unsecured Debts:
- Credit Card 1: £5,000 at 20% interest
- Credit Card 2: £3,000 at 18% interest
- Personal Loan: £7,000 at 15% interest
- Total Monthly Payment: £600
- Total Cost of Debts Over 5 Years: £36,000
- Secured Loan:
- £15,000 at 6% interest over 10 years
- Monthly Payment: £166
- Total Cost: £19,920
- By consolidating, you reduce monthly payments by £434 and save £16,080 over the long term.