Debt Consolidation

A form of debt refinancing in which several smaller debts are consolidated into one simplified debt

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Written by CFI Team

What is Debt Consolidation?

Debt consolidation is a form of debt refinancing in which several smaller debts are consolidated into one simplified debt. It generally results in a lower interest rate, lower monthly payment, and a simplified payment plan.

Debt Consolidation

Debt consolidation simplifies payment plans by eliminating the number of debts and allowing consumers to put all their attention into one large account.

Consumers can apply for debt consolidation through a variety of different resources such as their bank, credit card company, or credit union. If such options are unable to be pursued, private lenders can be used.

Secured vs. Unsecured Loan

The consolidation of a loan can be applied to either a secured or unsecured loan.

1. Secured loan

A secured loan is a type of loan that involves collateral – something of value like a vehicle or house. In other words, the lender can take possession of the collateral if the borrower is late on payments. This most commonly pertains to car payments and mortgages.

2. Unsecured loan

No collateral is required in an unsecured loan. It means that the lender cannot take personal valuables if the borrower is late on payments. For example, if they are late on a credit card bill or student loan, the bank cannot confiscate their house as collateral.

In debt consolidation, it is important to know the type of loan taken out by the borrower. With regards to both secured and unsecured loans, consolidating will typically result in a lower interest rate than what credit card companies offer.

Pros and Cons of Debt Consolidation

Listed below are few of the pros and cons of turning to debt consolidation:

Pros

Debt consolidation loans are presented with smaller interest rates and a simplified payment plan, which eliminates the strain of multiple bills.
The borrower’s credit rating will not be adversely affected if they are able to keep up with payments. In some cases, a credit score can increase due to quick payments.
The borrower may also qualify for a tax deduction if the loan is secured with an asset (collateral).

Cons

Resorting to debt consolidation can result in longer payment terms. It will extend the debt, and the borrower will be in debt longer.
In some instances, the borrower may even be required to provide collateral. Conversely, the non-payment of debt consolidation can hurt heir credit rating, leaving the borrower worse off in the future.
Some debt consolidation services include large monthly and initial fees that can add to the overall debt.

Forms of Debt Consolidation

Debt consolidation is a broad topic that can be magnified when it comes to certain situations such as the ones stated below.

Debt consolidation loans: They would be given to a consumer who wishes to combine multiple debts into one large, simplified loan.
Student loan consolidation: Multiple student loans can be consolidated at a lower interest rate, reducing the stress faced by graduates.
Credit cards: Multiple credit cards can be consolidated into one credit card at a different interest rate. It is the most common form of debt consolidation.
Home equity loans: Such a form of debt consolidation relates to home equity lines of credit (HELOC). If itemized, interest on the loan can be deductible.

Other Options

Consumers can turn to a variety of options when faced with a large amount of debt, including:

Debt settlement: The debt is negotiated with the lender to lower the interest rate and overall financial burden.
Debt relief: Where a fraction, or all of the debt, is forgiven by the lender.
Credit counseling: A third party assists the borrower and educates them on how to reduce overall debt and avoid it in the future.
Bankruptcy: When no other option is available, the borrower’s personal assets are liquidated by a trustee and are used to repay the debt as much as possible.