PERSONAL / CONSOLIDATION

Debt Consolidation Loans

Debt consolidation can simplify obligations or improve payment economics when the new loan meaningfully improves the old mix.

01 / UNDERSTAND THE STRUCTURE

Make the new terms count.

Debt consolidation combines existing obligations into a new loan. It helps only when the new payment plan and total cost make sense, including the risk of building new balances afterward.

Where it can fit

  • Borrowers comparing a defined set of existing debts
  • Households with a sustainable repayment budget

Common uses

Refinance eligible balancesSimplify payment dates
02 / THE QUALIFICATION PICTURE

What shapes the file.

  • Current payoff balances
  • New APR, fees and term
  • Affordability without new borrowing

General product guidance. A provider’s actual criteria and review determine eligibility.

Documents to prepare

  • Income and employment documentation
  • Current obligations and monthly budget
  • Identity and address verification requested by the lender
  • Payoff statements and current APRs
Build a document checklist
03 / READ THE FINE PRINT

Know the tradeoffs.

  • A lower payment can hide a longer and more expensive repayment period.
  • Paying off cards does not prevent new card debt.
Understand the full cost
PRIMARY SOURCESCFPB: Personal installment loans ↗Program details can change. Confirm current rules and offer terms with the provider.
T / CAPITAL, CONSIDERED

Put the numbers to work.

04 / CAPITAL, CONSIDERED

Keep these on the shortlist.

Q / CAPITAL, CONSIDERED

A question worth asking.

Does combining debts automatically save money?

No. Include origination fees, the new term and all remaining payments. Compare that total with the cost of retaining the current debts.

YOUR NEXT MOVE

Make your next move an informed one.

Start with your profile. Understand the tradeoffs. Prepare a clear request.