Despite inflation, consumers spent like crazy over the holidays, to the point that many racked up significant debt. According to a new LendingTree survey, 35% of Americans took on yuletide debt, with the average amount being $1,549. That figure rose 24% from last year, and is the highest amount of annual holiday debt reflected in the eight-year history of the report.
By Nicole Spector
See: What Is the Highest Income Level for Food Stamps in 2023?Find: 3 Easy Tips To Turn Your Credit Woes Into Wows
How can these jolly holiday spenders (perhaps you are one of them) pay off their debt quickly?
Use Your Tax Refund
One reason to file one’s taxes early or on time is to get that tax refund as soon as possible. You can put any refund straight toward your credit card balance.
Transfer Your Credit Card Balance to a New Credit Card With No Interest
A sneaky way to conquer (or at least partially conquer) holiday debt is to transfer debt from an existing credit card to a new credit card that offers no interest for a promotional period. Be sure to review the fine print on both credit cards, though, to ensure you aren’t caught financially flat-footed.
Ask for a Lower Interest Rate on Your Credit Cards
One little known fact is that credit card APR can be variable. If you have a good history with making credit card payments on time — and a lower APR has been recently made available by your credit card company — you could land a lower interest rate if you call customer service. Negotiations could be in your favor if you’ve been a longtime client.
Take Our Poll: How Long Do You Think It Will Take You To Pay Off Your Credit Card Debt?More: Shopping Mistakes You’re Making and How To Stop
Boost Your Income
Nobody likes to hear it, but making more money really is the fastest way to quash debt. Consider looking into side hustles you can easily do from the luxury of your own home, most often via the internet.
