List every debt, balance, interest rate, and minimum payment
Stop adding new debt
Build a strict monthly budget
Cut nonessential spending
Pay more than the minimum on one debt
Use the debt avalanche method
Use the debt snowball method if motivation matters more
Put all extra money toward the target debt
Increase income with overtime, side work, or selling items
Apply windfalls to debt immediately
Refinance or consolidate high-interest debt if it lowers the rate
Negotiate lower interest rates with lenders
Automate payments to avoid late fees
Avoid taking on new loans
Use cash or debit instead of credit
Build a small emergency fund to prevent new debt
Track progress weekly
Keep accounts open only if needed
Seek credit counseling if debt is unmanageable