Starting my journey

debtfreedj

No excuses from me, I was an idiot and got into debt. As a younger person I thought I could handle things and ended up defaulting.

I'm in my mid-30s and have felt ashamed for ages but have been running away from it. But that has changed.

I joined Clearscore and from this wanted to make changes to get a better score, which is currently on 261/700.

Three positives, 5 negatives.

I currently owe £250 - o2
£112, £149 - Lowell
£620 - 1st Credit

I have phoned Lowell and agreed £20 per month, I have emailed 1st to try and arrange payment - and am trying to find out how to sort something with o2 as well.

In order to help me with credit I have applied for a card with Aqua - in order to put some more positive spending on my account - I have learnt lessons, this will not be used for major spending, just for the moments during the month we need to buy something urgently, this will be paid by direct debt for the date it is due. I am in a decent job and can afford this now.

What other things can I do?

Thanks

autumn2012_2

Pay as much off your debts - cut back your spending, start saving and as soon as you are in a decent position apply for a decent card with a good rate on purchases - pay it off in full and dont spend more than you have.

FinallyGettingFree

You only owe 1131GBP? If I was you, I would cut out all non-essential spending, gear yourself up for a few months of staying in every evening and eating rice and beans, and just clear the debt within two pay cycles (you said you were in a good job now?)

Get the YNAB (You Need A Budget) software, and take a hard look at your spending patterns. Start saving. Your credit score will improve if you take these actions, guaranteed.