Stop taking on new debt
List all debts, balances, interest rates, and minimum payments
Build a bare-bones budget
Cut nonessential spending immediately
Pay more than the minimum on one debt
Use the debt avalanche method for highest interest first
Use the debt snowball method if motivation matters more
Put every extra dollar toward debt payments
Increase income with overtime, side jobs, or selling items
Apply windfalls directly to debt
Negotiate lower interest rates with lenders
Refinance or consolidate high-interest debt if it lowers costs
Automate payments to avoid late fees
Avoid cash advances and payday loans
Track progress weekly
Keep an emergency fund so new debt is less likely
Reassess the plan monthly and adjust spending aggressively