If you have been impacted by COVID-19, our team is here to help, learn more >
National Foundation for Credit Counseling® (NFCC®) poll uncovers top financial priorities for 2017.
The rise of consumer confidence in the last quarter of the year may have led many to open their wallets more freely during the holiday shopping season. For some, that meant more frequent credit card use. The beginning of the New Year means that it’s time to pay the tab for the last one. Credit card debt that carries over from month to month brings interest and fees that are added to the cost of purchases, making it more of a challenge to manage. The year-end online poll conducted by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling® (NFCC®) revealed that four-fifths (80%) of those who responded have placed debt repayment at the top of the list for goals to achieve in the year ahead.
“It’s a sobering moment when the credit card bill arrives in January and reveals a mountain of debt fueled by holiday spending,” said Bruce McClary, spokesperson for the NFCC. “January is a good time for planning to get debt under control before it becomes unmanageable.”
While not an easy task, there are some tips that can help support a successful plan to repay debt this year. Here are a few things to consider:
Repaying debt can be a very long process, especially when it involves a mortgage or auto loan. Making a plan is the first and most important step on that journey. Putting the plan in motion should be the next priority, and one that shouldn’t wait. Over time, the results will be the reward for making the plan and being committed to the goal.
The actual poll question and results are as follows:
“Among the following choices, what is your top financial priority in the New Year?”
Note: The NFCC’s December Financial Literacy Opinion Index was conducted via the homepage of the NFCC website (http://www.NFCC.org) from December 1-31, 2016, and was answered by 1,834 individuals.
Founded in 1951, the National Foundation for Credit Counseling® (NFCC®) is the nation’s first and largest nonprofit dedicated to improving people’s financial well-being. With nearly 600 member offices serving 50 states and Puerto Rico, our NFCC Certified Credit Counselors are financial advocates, empowering millions of consumers to take charge of their finances through one-on-one financial reviews that address credit card debt, student loans, housing decisions and overall money management. Make one of the best financial decisions of your life. For expert guidance and advice, call (800) 388-2227 or visit www.nfcc.org today.
Learn more