Stop using the credit cards
List every debt, balance, APR, and minimum payment
Pay only the minimums on all cards except one
Put every extra dollar toward the highest-interest card
Or pay the smallest balance first for quick wins
Call card issuers and ask for a lower APR
Ask about hardship programs or payment plans
Transfer high-interest balances to a 0% APR card if eligible
Avoid new purchases on transferred balances
Cut nonessential spending immediately
Build a bare-bones budget
Use extra income for debt payments
Sell unused items for cash
Set up automatic payments
Make payments more than once a month if possible
Use tax refunds, bonuses, or windfalls on debt
Consider a debt consolidation loan if the rate is lower
Avoid debt settlement unless you understand the risks
Check your credit report for errors
Track progress weekly
Keep paying until every balance is gone