Answer the following 25 debt-related questions. Total your YES points. Then, find your Debt Range at the bottom to determine the likelihood of succumbing to debt.
- A collection agency has contacted me about unpaid bills (10 points)
- I have one or more leased vehicles (5 points)
- I am making some minimum monthly payments on credit card debt (5 points)
- I charge purchases to credit cards that were previously paid for in cash (5 points)
- I have elected to not carry health insurance (10 points)
- I have elected to not carry vehicle insurance (10 points)
- I have elected to not carry homeowners or renters insurance (10 points)
- I worry or lose sleep over my financial situation (5 points)
- My wages are being garnished or assigned (10 points)
- I skip credit card payments in order to pay for food, shelter or utilities (10 points)
- I am behind in paying for housing, vehicle or utilities (10 points)
- I am occasionally late in paying bills or sometimes incur late fees (5 points)
- Family relationships are strained as a result of money problems (5 points)
- I borrow or transfer money in order to pay bills (5 points)
- 40% or more of take-home pay goes toward paying debt (10 points)
- I do not have at least 3 months living expenses held in savings (10 points)
- I have given thought to filing for bankruptcy (10 points)
- I have thought about starting a debt consolidation plan (5 points)
- I use or have used "cash advance" or "payday loan" services (5 points)
- I use a home equity line of credit to pay credit card debt or other bills (5 points)
- My debts are increasing while my income is the same or decreasing (5 points)
- I am in the process of or near foreclosure or property repossession (10 points)
- A money-spending plan or budget is something we do not use (5 points)
- My credit cards are at or near the spending limits (10 points)
- I don't balance my checkbook each month (5 points)
Total your YES" POINTS to determine your Point Range indicated below.
POINT RANGE:
- 0-15 Congratulations! You appear to be doing a good job of controlling your debt and managing your finances. Being debt free can eventually lead to personal financial freedom.
- 20-35 You may be headed down the proper financial path but a review by a qualified financial planner might be a good idea.
- 40-65 Your financial condition may be a concern. A financial assessment by a licensed financial planner is recommended.
- 70-95 Your financial condition could be serious. Debt counseling help is something you should seriously consider.
- 100-185 Your financial condition may be critical. Debt counseling help is essential.
