Two beginner investors talking
Two beginner investors talking
Two beginner investors talking

Is Debt Consolidation Right for You?

One potential strategy to regain control of your financial landscape is through debt consolidation. Debt consolidation is the process of combining multiple debts into a single payment under one lender. Instead of making multiple payments to several different lenders, a new lender pays off all your debts and then issues you a single loan to cover those costs. Not to be confused with debt settlement, which is an agreement to pay a one-time lower amount to settle a debt, debt consolidation is often a favorable option for people who want to regain control of their financial lives.

One potential strategy to regain control of your financial landscape is through debt consolidation. Debt consolidation is the process of combining multiple debts into a single payment under one lender. Instead of making multiple payments to several different lenders, a new lender pays off all your debts and then issues you a single loan to cover those costs. Not to be confused with debt settlement, which is an agreement to pay a one-time lower amount to settle a debt, debt consolidation is often a favorable option for people who want to regain control of their financial lives.

When Debt Consolidation Makes Sense

When you can get a better interest rate

One of the chief reasons people choose to consolidate their debts is to save on interest costs. If you have several high-interest forms of debt, you may be able to get a lower overall interest rate by combining these debts under a new loan. Often, you can get better interest rates if your credit score has improved or if the interest rates for borrowing money have gone down.

When you can get more favorable repayment terms

While saving on interest costs is almost always the primary reason for consolidating debt, there are times when it’s a smart move to lock in more favorable repayment terms. If you are struggling to keep up with your payments, you may be able to consolidate your debt into a lower monthly payment.

Generally, this means spending more money in the long run, but it’s a far better solution than defaulting on your loans and potentially ruining your credit.

When Debt Consolidation Doesn’t Make Sense

When you have prepayment penalties

When you take out a debt consolidation loan, your new lender pays off your existing debt. The lender then issues you a new loan for the total of all the debt that was paid off. If your outstanding loans have prepayment penalties (where you’re charged extra for paying them off early), you’ll need to cover those costs with the new loan, which could erase the potential savings from a lower interest rate.

When the fees outweigh the benefits

Taking out a new loan to consolidate your debt isn’t free. You’ll need to pay origination fees and any other fees the new lender requires. If the savings from your lower interest rate don’t outweigh the cost of a new loan, you’re not saving any money and all you’ll be gaining is the convenience of a single payment. Make sure before you move forward with debt consolidation that you take the time to crunch the numbers and ensure you’re getting the outcome you want.

What To Look For in a Debt Consolidation Lender
  • Low fees – As mentioned, if the cost of getting a consolidated loan is too high, you’ll erase all the potential savings. Shop for a lender with affordable fees that fit your financial goals.

  • Protections – Look to see if the lender has any programs in place to help if you lose your job or have problems making payments. More specifically, make sure you’re not consolidating loans that have better protections for loans that don’t.

  • Track Record – Take the time to research the lender and look at reviews. You don’t want to consolidate your loans for a little bit of savings and end up working with a company that has a bad reputation. There’s value in a good working relationship, even with your lenders.

The Bottom Line

If you can save significantly or get more favorable repayment terms with a consolidated loan, debt consolidation could be a smart financial move. It’s important you take your time, properly crunch the numbers, and make sure your potential lender delivers what you’re looking for. If everything checks out, debt consolidation may be the right move for you and a worthwhile boost to your overall financial health.

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A wise man once said, “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication,” and no one embodies this wisdom better in the financial world than the “Oracle of Omaha,” Warren Buffett. Considered by many as the GOAT, he has built a net worth over $100 billion primarily by investing in a diverse set of companies through his company Berkshire Hathaway.

A wise man once said, “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication,” and no one embodies this wisdom better in the financial world than the “Oracle of Omaha,” Warren Buffett. Considered by many as the GOAT, he has built a net worth over $100 billion primarily by investing in a diverse set of companies through his company Berkshire Hathaway.

A wise man once said, “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication,” and no one embodies this wisdom better in the financial world than the “Oracle of Omaha,” Warren Buffett. Considered by many as the GOAT, he has built a net worth over $100 billion primarily by investing in a diverse set of companies through his company Berkshire Hathaway.

The Fed started a new rate cutting cycle earlier this month by taking the Fed Funds rate down by 0.50%.

The Fed started a new rate cutting cycle earlier this month by taking the Fed Funds rate down by 0.50%.

The Fed started a new rate cutting cycle earlier this month by taking the Fed Funds rate down by 0.50%.

Unless indicated differently, data is as of 06/30/2024.


*Disclosures

1. Pricing: Free with Beanstox Simple. Learn About Pricing.

2. Power Savings: As of June 30, 2024, traditional US Savings Account Rate: 0.45% (YCharts); T-Bill yield: 5.20% (YCharts); 5% based on the 30-day SEC yield of the Beanstox short-duration bond portfolio ETF constituents; the 30-day SEC yield is a standard metric defined by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and reflects the dividends and interest earned during the period after the deduction of the ETF’s expenses. There are no assurances that this yield will be sustainable in the future. This product invests in one or more ETFs. Results may vary due to expenses and other factors. T-Bill yield as of 06/30/2024 is 5.20%. Source YCharts.

3. Stocks 500: Where applicable, as of June 30, 2024, S&P 500 return assumes an initial $1,000 investment, 40-year annualized return of 11% (Source: Bloomberg Finance LP). It is not possible to invest directly in an index. This product invests in an ETF aiming to track the S&P 500’s performance. Results may vary due to expenses and other factors. Returns before ETF fees. Diversification is not a guarantee of profit or protection against loss.

4. Wealth Builder: Saving $400/month over 40 years, but not investing and assuming no interest accrual, would accumulate $192,000; however, investing the same $400/month, could add up to over $1million over the same period of time. This projection illustrates a hypothetical example of compounding over time, based on an investment of $400 per month for 40 years with an assumed annualized returns of 7% or more, compounded monthly, assuming the funds stay invested throughout the investment period.

5. All corporate logos are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security.

6. App store rating is as of June 30, 2024, and is based upon all ratings and reviews received by Apple App Store and Google Play Store (collectively, the “App Stores”) submitted since the Beanstox app was available on each App Store. Current rating can be found on Beanstox’s app preview in each App Store and is subject to change. App Store rating is generally calculated and generated by each App Stores based on the average of all total Beanstox app ratings. No compensation was exchanged for reviews or ratings. Rating may not be representative of the Beanstox client experience, advisory services, or investment performance. For more information, see more reviews at the App Store and Google Play Store

Beanstox Inc. (“Beanstox”) is an SEC registered investment adviser and has arranged for brokerage services to be provided by DriveWealth LLC., a registered broker-dealer and member of FINRA/SIPC. DriveWealth is not affiliated with Beanstox.

Investing in securities involves risks, and there is always the potential of losing money when you invest in securities. Before investing, consider your investment objectives and risk tolerance levels and Beanstox’s charges and expenses. The information provided herein is for illustrative purposes only and does not constitute personalized investment advice, recommendations or solicitations to hold, buy or sell any investment or security of any kind. Beanstox’s internet-based advisory services are designed to assist clients in achieving investment goals. They are not intended to provide comprehensive tax advice or financial planning with respect to every aspect of a client’s financial situation and do not incorporate specific investments that clients hold elsewhere. For more details, see our Form ADV Part 2A and Part 3 CRS and other disclosures.

All images and return figures shown are for illustrative purposes only and are not actual customer or model returns. Actual returns will vary greatly and depend on personal and market conditions. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google, Inc. Apple, the Apple logo, and iPhone are trademarks of Apple, Inc., registered in the U.S.

Our site uses cookies and other similar technologies so that we can remember you and understand how you and other visitors use our site. Please see Beanstox Privacy Policy for more information.

© 2024 Beanstox Inc.


Copyright © 2024 Beanstox. All Rights Reserved

Unless indicated differently, data is as of 06/30/2024.


*Disclosures

1. Pricing: Free with Beanstox Simple. Learn About Pricing.

2. Power Savings: As of June 30, 2024, traditional US Savings Account Rate: 0.45% (YCharts); T-Bill yield: 5.20% (YCharts); 5% based on the 30-day SEC yield of the Beanstox short-duration bond portfolio ETF constituents; the 30-day SEC yield is a standard metric defined by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and reflects the dividends and interest earned during the period after the deduction of the ETF’s expenses. There are no assurances that this yield will be sustainable in the future. This product invests in one or more ETFs. Results may vary due to expenses and other factors. T-Bill yield as of 06/30/2024 is 5.20%. Source YCharts.

3. Stocks 500: Where applicable, as of June 30, 2024, S&P 500 return assumes an initial $1,000 investment, 40-year annualized return of 11% (Source: Bloomberg Finance LP). It is not possible to invest directly in an index. This product invests in an ETF aiming to track the S&P 500’s performance. Results may vary due to expenses and other factors. Returns before ETF fees. Diversification is not a guarantee of profit or protection against loss.

4. Wealth Builder: Saving $400/month over 40 years, but not investing and assuming no interest accrual, would accumulate $192,000; however, investing the same $400/month, could add up to over $1million over the same period of time. This projection illustrates a hypothetical example of compounding over time, based on an investment of $400 per month for 40 years with an assumed annualized returns of 7% or more, compounded monthly, assuming the funds stay invested throughout the investment period.

5. All corporate logos are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security.

6. App store rating is as of June 30, 2024, and is based upon all ratings and reviews received by Apple App Store and Google Play Store (collectively, the “App Stores”) submitted since the Beanstox app was available on each App Store. Current rating can be found on Beanstox’s app preview in each App Store and is subject to change. App Store rating is generally calculated and generated by each App Stores based on the average of all total Beanstox app ratings. No compensation was exchanged for reviews or ratings. Rating may not be representative of the Beanstox client experience, advisory services, or investment performance. For more information, see more reviews at the App Store and Google Play Store

Beanstox Inc. (“Beanstox”) is an SEC registered investment adviser and has arranged for brokerage services to be provided by DriveWealth LLC., a registered broker-dealer and member of FINRA/SIPC. DriveWealth is not affiliated with Beanstox.

Investing in securities involves risks, and there is always the potential of losing money when you invest in securities. Before investing, consider your investment objectives and risk tolerance levels and Beanstox’s charges and expenses. The information provided herein is for illustrative purposes only and does not constitute personalized investment advice, recommendations or solicitations to hold, buy or sell any investment or security of any kind. Beanstox’s internet-based advisory services are designed to assist clients in achieving investment goals. They are not intended to provide comprehensive tax advice or financial planning with respect to every aspect of a client’s financial situation and do not incorporate specific investments that clients hold elsewhere. For more details, see our Form ADV Part 2A and Part 3 CRS and other disclosures.

All images and return figures shown are for illustrative purposes only and are not actual customer or model returns. Actual returns will vary greatly and depend on personal and market conditions. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google, Inc. Apple, the Apple logo, and iPhone are trademarks of Apple, Inc., registered in the U.S.

Our site uses cookies and other similar technologies so that we can remember you and understand how you and other visitors use our site. Please see Beanstox Privacy Policy for more information.

© 2024 Beanstox Inc.


Copyright © 2024 Beanstox. All Rights Reserved

Unless indicated differently, data is as of 06/30/2024.


*Disclosures

1. Pricing: Free with Beanstox Simple. Learn About Pricing.

2. Power Savings: As of June 30, 2024, traditional US Savings Account Rate: 0.45% (YCharts); T-Bill yield: 5.20% (YCharts); 5% based on the 30-day SEC yield of the Beanstox short-duration bond portfolio ETF constituents; the 30-day SEC yield is a standard metric defined by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and reflects the dividends and interest earned during the period after the deduction of the ETF’s expenses. There are no assurances that this yield will be sustainable in the future. This product invests in one or more ETFs. Results may vary due to expenses and other factors. T-Bill yield as of 06/30/2024 is 5.20%. Source YCharts.

3. Stocks 500: Where applicable, as of June 30, 2024, S&P 500 return assumes an initial $1,000 investment, 40-year annualized return of 11% (Source: Bloomberg Finance LP). It is not possible to invest directly in an index. This product invests in an ETF aiming to track the S&P 500’s performance. Results may vary due to expenses and other factors. Returns before ETF fees. Diversification is not a guarantee of profit or protection against loss.

4. Wealth Builder: Saving $400/month over 40 years, but not investing and assuming no interest accrual, would accumulate $192,000; however, investing the same $400/month, could add up to over $1million over the same period of time. This projection illustrates a hypothetical example of compounding over time, based on an investment of $400 per month for 40 years with an assumed annualized returns of 7% or more, compounded monthly, assuming the funds stay invested throughout the investment period.

5. All corporate logos are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security.

6. App store rating is as of June 30, 2024, and is based upon all ratings and reviews received by Apple App Store and Google Play Store (collectively, the “App Stores”) submitted since the Beanstox app was available on each App Store. Current rating can be found on Beanstox’s app preview in each App Store and is subject to change. App Store rating is generally calculated and generated by each App Stores based on the average of all total Beanstox app ratings. No compensation was exchanged for reviews or ratings. Rating may not be representative of the Beanstox client experience, advisory services, or investment performance. For more information, see more reviews at the App Store and Google Play Store

Beanstox Inc. (“Beanstox”) is an SEC registered investment adviser and has arranged for brokerage services to be provided by DriveWealth LLC., a registered broker-dealer and member of FINRA/SIPC. DriveWealth is not affiliated with Beanstox.

Investing in securities involves risks, and there is always the potential of losing money when you invest in securities. Before investing, consider your investment objectives and risk tolerance levels and Beanstox’s charges and expenses. The information provided herein is for illustrative purposes only and does not constitute personalized investment advice, recommendations or solicitations to hold, buy or sell any investment or security of any kind. Beanstox’s internet-based advisory services are designed to assist clients in achieving investment goals. They are not intended to provide comprehensive tax advice or financial planning with respect to every aspect of a client’s financial situation and do not incorporate specific investments that clients hold elsewhere. For more details, see our Form ADV Part 2A and Part 3 CRS and other disclosures.

All images and return figures shown are for illustrative purposes only and are not actual customer or model returns. Actual returns will vary greatly and depend on personal and market conditions. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google, Inc. Apple, the Apple logo, and iPhone are trademarks of Apple, Inc., registered in the U.S.

Our site uses cookies and other similar technologies so that we can remember you and understand how you and other visitors use our site. Please see Beanstox Privacy Policy for more information.

© 2024 Beanstox Inc.


Copyright © 2024 Beanstox. All Rights Reserved