I had roughly 3.5k in credit card debt as of two weeks ago. Since it only accounts for 20% of my current usage, I planned to pay the amount per week so that it would gradually pay off over the course of several months. My credit is not too bad, but I have to pay many thousand more to restore my car’s transmission, which suddenly broke. I have some funds that could take care of everything, but even though I could use the money, I’ve never been really comfortable taking it out. I would want to pay off the debt gradually and transfer the entire amount to my card, which offers 0% annual percentage rate on balance transfers. My goal is to pay off all of my credit card debt by the end of the year.
For what purpose are you saving money? That’s right—this is what emergency money are meant for—if your response is “emergency” or “rainy day.” If your response is anything different, consider whether you should be saving for that item without first ensuring that you have an emergency fund that can cover you in case of need.
You will also pay the fee, which is typically about 4%, if you plan to charge the cost of the repairs to one credit card and then balance transfer it to another.You can replenish your savings if you spend them. Using credit will result in higher monthly payments, which will reduce your ability to save. Prior to making a choice, you must weigh each of these factors.
Take your savings out and throw this away. Credit card debt destroyed my father’s life, forcing him to file for bankruptcy. Before it becomes worse, get rid of this. Your savings can always be replenished.