A little victory story

Preface: This client is someone I worked with via my day-job.

Congrats to Client for reaching his two-year goal of paying off $16,746 of debt!

Client came to me two years ago seeking help with his budget and debt. He was very reserved when I met him and to be honest, I did not think he’d follow through. Boy was I wrong! At first, we made a budget with the limited information he gave me and as he attempted to work it for several months, he unfortunately found it wasn’t going to work. His debt was too much for his income. He was putting an excess of $1100 a month on a credit card just to survive.

I referred him to many people, places and things to help with his needs but at the end of the day, debt consolidation was the best option for him. This is not my first suggestion when coaching anyone. Rather, it’s the last option. When nothing else helps and no other option exists, this becomes the option.

As a financial coach, I’ve recommended debt consolidation to four people – out of close to 60 employees I’ve worked with.

Four.

Two have successfully finished their time with the debt consolidation company. Two are still working it. They unanimously will agree they made the right choice, though the last choice.

My newest graduate worked hard at his plan. He also became an expert budgeter! You should see his budgeting sheet; tedious, color coated, with formulas all over the place! But it works for him which is something I always promote – find what works for you. He’s open many checking accounts to help with various savings and payment options. He’s saved his emergency fund and continued to fund it when he’s had to use it. He started his 401(k) savings again too!

Bottom line, Client is living again. He is very proud of the hard work he tortured himself with to become debt free! And I’m proud too! Congratulations!

From Client: To anyone out there who is struggling with debt or living paycheck to paycheck it can get better. I’ve suffered through and put purchase after purchase and want after want on hold to get to this point, but I made it. I know that if I can do it, anyone can. Reach out to Caitlin or someone that knows how to budget properly and see where you are at. I know lots of people like to cover their eyes and ignore the issue, but it will only get worse that way. You don’t have to live not knowing whether you will be able to pay rent next month or not.