List every bill, balance, due date, and minimum payment
Stop all nonessential spending immediately
Create a bare-bones budget
Pay minimums on all debts
Put every extra dollar toward the smallest debt or highest-interest debt
Use the debt snowball or debt avalanche method
Call creditors to request lower interest rates or hardship plans
Negotiate payment plans or settlements
Cancel subscriptions and recurring charges
Sell unused items for quick cash
Take on extra shifts, overtime, or side work
Use tax refunds, bonuses, or gifts to pay bills
Automate bill payments to avoid late fees
Prioritize bills with late fees, shutoff risk, or legal consequences
Reduce housing, transportation, food, and utility costs
Avoid new debt and stop using credit cards
Build a small emergency buffer to prevent new missed payments
Track spending daily until debts are under control
Revisit the plan weekly and redirect any savings to bills