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How to consolidate debt
Ready to save on interest and fees? Here's how to get back in control with debt consolidation.
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If you're looking for a better way to manage the money you owe, you're not alone. Research conducted by YouGov in January 2020 reveals that 61% of working Australians are in debt (outside of home loans) and 40% have considered debt consolidation1.
Debt consolidation is an option when you have multiple or high-interest debts, whether it be personal loans, credit cards or something else, and you want to reduce the interest and fees you're paying. This guide will take you through your options to consolidate your debts – including options for if you have bad credit.
What's in this guide?
How does debt consolidation work?
Debt consolidation involves taking out another credit account (loan, credit card or other) that combines your existing credit accounts into one. This helps to reduce the number fees and interest charges you are paying. The debt consolidation product you take out may involve extending a credit account you already hold, such as your mortgage.
It's important to make sure you can afford the repayments on a debt consolidation loan before you apply and that taking one out will improve your financial position.
Questions to ask before consolidating your debt
- What are your current monthly repayments? To make sure the new debt consolidation product you're applying for is helping you to pay less across your debts, you need to know how much you're paying. Pull up all of your bank statements or all of your separate bills for your credit accounts and add up how much you pay each month.
- How much are you paying in interest and fees? One benefit of debt consolidation is reducing what you're paying in interest and fees. Check your interest rates and fees for each of your accounts to ensure your new debt consolidation account will be less.
- Will you be eligible? While there are a few benefits to debt consolidation, there is no certainty as to your eligibility. There is also no certainty as to whether you'll be approved for the full amount you need to cover your debts. Check the minimum eligibility criteria, your credit file and the minimum and maximum allowable limits for the debt consolidation product you want. If in doubt, ask the provider directly.
- Will an exit fee or penalty apply to any of your current credit accounts? Some personal loans may charge you a penalty to repay your loan early. If a fee does apply to your loan, you need to ensure you're still able to save with debt consolidation when you have to pay this fee.
- What is your credit like? Credit providers go through your credit file and can check your credit score to assess your risk and establish your capacity to repay credit. You can get a copy of your credit file for free. Order it and make sure the information is correct and that you have a good idea of your financial position.
Finding the right debt consolidation option for you
The best way to consolidate your debt will depend on a number of factors, including how much debt you have and your financial situation. It also depends on the type of debt you're trying to consolidate. The sections below will guide you through consolidating debt based on your debt type.
How to consolidate personal loan debt
If you have personal loan debt and are looking to consolidate or refinance this debt in order to save interest and better manage your repayments, you have a few options available to you.
Your options:
- Debt consolidation personal loan. This is one of the most common ways people choose to consolidate/refinance their personal loan debt. It simply involves taking out a new personal loan with a lower interest rate and fees than your current one and transferring your debt across.
- Balance transfer credit card. Currently, a handful of credit card providers (Citi, Virgin Money, Qantas Money and Coles) allow you to balance transfer personal loan debt. This allows you to apply for a new credit card with a limit higher than your personal loan debt and transfer your debt onto the card. You'll then pay a promotional 0% p.a. rate for a limited period of time on the debt, after which a standard rate (usually above 20% p.a.) will apply.
- Refinancing through your mortgage. If you have a mortgage you also have the option of consolidating your debt to repay it with this loan. However, keep in mind that while this option can seem cheaper due to the low rates home loans can offer, the loan terms can be up to 30 years. This can offset any savings earned, so make sure you do the maths.
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Fox Symes Debt Solutions
Fox Symes offers a range of debt consolidation options to help you if you're struggling with multiple debts.Citi Credit Card Offer
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DISCLAIMER: This information is provided as is and does not take into account your current financial situation. You should always seek professional financial advice before applying for any form of finance.
How to consolidate credit card debt
Credit card debt can get out of control quickly, especially as credit card holders on average have two cards. If you want to take back control of your credit card debt you have a few options available.
Your options:
- Balance transfer credit card. This is one of the most common methods of consolidating credit card debt. It involves you applying for a balance transfer credit card and moving what you already owe to that card. The debt you roll over will have a promotional rate (usually 0% p.a.) applied to it for a limited period of anywhere between three months to two years. After that time, a revert rate (usually 20% p.a. or higher), will apply.
- Debt consolidation personal loan. If you don't mind paying interest in exchange for a regular payment structure and longer payment terms, then a debt consolidation personal loan may be an option to consider. This involves you applying for a lump sum to cover your credit card debt and then using the funds to pay your card's balance off. By making regular repayments on the personal loan for the term you have selected you will pay off your debt.
Credit card debt consolidation options
Fox Symes Debt Solutions
Fox Symes offers a range of debt consolidation options to help you if you're struggling with multiple debts.How to consolidate personal loan and credit card debt
If you have a few types of debt you want to consolidate, such as a personal loan and a credit card(s), you should first work out how much you're paying across your accounts. You also need to factor in any exit or early repayment fees. Once you've done your due diligence you have a few options to consider.
Your options:
- Debt consolidation personal loan. This type of loan allows you to borrow a lump sum which you can then use to pay off your credit accounts, credit card and personal loan or otherwise. As long as you apply and are approved for a sufficient amount, you can pay off whichever debts you choose.
- Balance transfer credit card. Citi, Virgin Money, Qantas Money and Coles allow you to balance transfer debts from credit cards, personal loans and lines of credit. As long as you are approved for a high enough credit limit you can transfer debts from multiple accounts and take advantage of the promotional balance transfer rate on offer, which is usually 0% p.a. This rate can apply for as long as 24 months, after which the higher revert rate will apply to any unpaid balance.
- Mortgage refinancing. Those with home loans can also consider consolidating their debt into their existing mortgage. However, ensure your home loan lender will allow you to do this and calculate if this will actually save you money when the payments are spread out over your home loan term.
How to consolidate debt when you have bad credit
While your options are much more limited when you have bad credit, debt consolidation is still possible. When entering into bad credit debt consolidation, however, you need to consider the level of debt you have and how much you're struggling with it. That's because bad credit debt consolidation may involve entering into a Part 9 Debt Agreement, which is a form of bankruptcy. However, there are other options available, it just may involve a higher interest rate being applied to your loan to offset the risk you represent as a bad credit borrower.
- Part 9 Debt Agreement. A Part 9 Debt Agreement is an agreement between you, the lender and your creditors to pay a certain sum of money to your creditors. Once all parties agree, your debts will stop accruing interest, any civil actions are frozen and creditors can't pursue you. Keep in mind this agreement may result in you losing secured assets and you will have trouble accessing credit while you're repaying the amounts as per the agreement.
- Bad credit debt consolidation loan. This is an unsecured debt consolidation loan that is available to bad credit borrowers. It allows you to consolidate your debts, including credit cards and personal loans, and may allow you to save interest and fees. Keep in mind a higher interest rate will apply than with good credit debt consolidation loans as you represent more of a risk.
Fox Symes can help you take back control of large debts by consolidating what you owe.
Fill out this form to find out if you can benefit from:
- Reducing your repayments
- Saving interest
- A range of debt consolidation options
The good and the bad of consolidating debt
The benefits
- Save money. By rolling your debts into one account you eliminate the separate fees you're paying and are also likely to reduce the amount you're paying in interest.
- Simplify your debts. A debt consolidation loan gives you one lender to deal with, one set of fees to keep in mind and one interest rate to remember.
- Prevent damage to your credit file. A consolidation loan gives you a clear set path to paying your debt off. You might be able to avoid bankruptcy and you can avoid defaulting on your current debt.
What to be aware of
- Risk of rejection. Applying for a new debt consolidation account will leave a hard enquiry on your credit file. Read the eligibility criteria and make sure you meet it.
- Confusing jargon. Watch out for certain "debt consolidation solutions" which are actually a Part 9 Debt Agreement and involves you entering into a form of bankruptcy.
- High rates and fees for bad credit borrowers. These loans carry higher rates and fees, so bad credit borrowers need to be especially wary when applying.
Debt collectors: What you need to know
Your rights
Even though you may have bad debts, you also still have rights. There are laws that control what debt collectors can and cannot do.
- They cannot excessively harass, threaten, or bully you and collectors are supposed to only contact you only during certain hours of the day (7:30am–9:00pm on weekdays and 9:00am–9:00pm on weekends). Keep a log of the dates and times you are contacted along with any other specifics. This will come in handy if you end up having to file a complaint, which you can do by contacting a consumer protection agency such as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).
- Check your bill records if collectors are calling you. Ask for a detailed statement of what they say you owe. If the debt involves a loan, ask for a copy of the paperwork. A collector must always identify themselves and state the reason they are contacting you. They should be prepared to provide you with account information, and should offer a repayment or settlement plan.
- Figure out what you must spend to get by, such as food, shelter, car, utilities, etc. It is good practice to set up an appointment with a non-profit help debt counsellor before making any promises or commitments to a collector.
- Certain credit brokers and credit providers in Australia operate illegally without licenses, so make sure you’re dealing with a licensed individual or organisation. To check, you can go through ASIC Connect's Professional Registers or call ASIC's infoline.
What happens if your application is rejected?
If your application is rejected, then you should wait to apply again. Generally, if waiting between three and six months to apply with another provider will not be lower risk than applying straight away. If you have series concerns about your debt you have Part 9 Debt Agreements (a form of bankruptcy) as a last resort.
In the event that a provider rejects your application for credit, bear in mind that not all is lost. Before you apply for credit there are a few things you can do to improve your chances of being approved. For example, you can start by going through your credit report to ensure you have a good credit score. If you're concerned about your application you could also work on reducing your debt for a period of time so you don't have to apply for as high a limit and then work on reducing debt with a budget.
FAQs about debt consolidation
My current bank offers debt consolidation loans. Should I just apply with them?
Applying with your current bank has some advantages, but you should still compare the options available to you before you apply. If you have a few negative listings on your credit file and have a strong past relationship with your bank, you may have a better chance of being approved with them than with another lender. This is, of course, if your account has been kept in good standing. As mentioned, it still helps to compare the options you may be eligible for so you're aware of the debt consolidation possibilities in the market.
Should I consolidate my debt into my home loan to save having to take out another loan?
As we've outlined above, if you have equity in your home you can consider adding your debt to your home loan by refinancing.
There are a few considerations before doing this.
First off, while the interest rate might be lower, remember that the debt will likely be spread out over a much longer period as home loans are for longer terms than standard personal loans. The costs of refinancing should also factor into your decision.
By doing some simple calculations when comparing your options you can find out which one will be the most financially viable. You should think about whether this type of consolidation will be the best way for you to manage your debt.
Do I need to change my budget and spending when I consolidate my debt?
If you are taking out a traditional debt consolidation loan then you are not required to alter your budget, although this can help you get out of debt sooner. A debt consolidation loan can see a reduction in the amount you pay in interest, which in turn reduces your monthly repayments.
If you have no fees for making extra repayments, you could put the money you save towards your loan to help pay down your debt more quickly.
You might also want to review your current budget and see if there's any ongoing expenditure you can cut back on so you can put more towards your loan. This being said, if you choose to enter a debt agreement there may be budget and spending restrictions depending on the nature of your agreement.
What's the difference between a debt consolidation loan and a debt agreement?
A debt consolidation loan is a type of personal loan that allows you to combine your current debts such as loans and credit cards into one. These loans can help reduce the amount you're paying in interest and fees and also make your debt easier to manage with one simple repayment.
A debt agreement, on the other hand, is a binding agreement that is an actual act of bankruptcy. It will be listed on your credit file and affect your ability to access credit later on.
Debt agreements are serious contracts to consider and the decision shouldn't be taken lightly. They are usually entered into when you find your debt unmanageable but don't want to enter into bankruptcy – you will agree to pay your debtors a certain amount of money that you can afford.
I am anxious about my debt and don't know what to do. Who can I talk to?
Debt anxiety is a common concern especially if you're finding your debt overwhelming or unmanageable. If you're unsure whether a debt consolidation loan is right for you, or you want some advice on your personal situation, you can get in contact with a free financial counsellor on 1800 007 007.
There are free credit and debt services available in every state and they can help you decide your best course of action.
1Debt fret - YouGov study commissioned by ING.
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Want to understand the differences between personal insolvency and bankruptcy, and what both of these terms mean for your financial future? Find out here.
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What you’re doing wrong that keeps you in debt
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Personal Loan Offers
Important Information*
Ask an Expert
Want to consolidate debt of around $50000
Can someone help us
Hi Cheryl,
Thank you for reaching out to finder.
It looks like we are on the correct page to check on a panel of lenders who could assist you on your query.You may choose, depending on the debt that you have on the three tabs located on the page for Debt consolidation loans, Balance transfer credit cards for personal loans or Home Equity refinance. Kindly review and compare your options on the table displaying the available providers. Once you have chosen a particular provider, you may then click on the “Go to site” button and you will be redirected to the provider’s website where you can proceed with the application or get in touch with their representatives for further inquiries you may have.
Before applying, please ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria and read through the details of the needed requirements as well as the relevant Product Disclosure Statements/Terms and Conditions when comparing your options before making a decision on whether it is right for you.Hope this helps!
Cheers,
Reggie
Need help have bad credit and currently owe $50,000 in personal loans and credit cards. Need to consolidate loans into one payment not sure how this is done
Hi Darren,
Thanks for reaching out to finder.
Even if you have a bad credit, it’s not completely impossible to find lenders who can help you consolidate your debts.
You can go to this page to review and compare lenders offering debt consolidation loans for people with bad credit. You can click on the “Go to site” button to be redirected to the lender’s website where you can learn more about their loan offer and start your loan application.
Before applying for any loan, please review the eligibility criteria and read through the terms and conditions to see if it best suits your needs.
I hope this helps.
Cheers,
Charisse
I am looking someone to help me get the low rate personal loan to pay off my credit cards and the money I borrowed from friends. So that I can have one fix repayment coming out every fortnight.
Hello Neil,
You are actually on the right page.
On this page, you can find the companies you can choose from to consolidate your debts and have one fixed repayment.
Please feel free to utilize the comparison table so you can see them side-by-side.
Cheers,
Gru
Hi Gru,
Thank you for reply. I understand these options. But I was looking for someone who helps me apply for loan. I don’t know which financial institution to choose to get guaranteed loan. Also I have few personal questions that are related to my current financial situation.
Is there anyone I can talk too?
Hello Neil,
You would have to apply for the loan yourself.
As finder is an Australian comparison website and general information service and while we do not represent any company we feature on our pages, we can only offer you general advice and guide you so you can make a decision based on your available options.
If you would require to speak with someone about your current financial situation you may contact the lenders directly to discuss this with them.
Please also feel free to view these pages to guide you and check if something would be suitable for you:
Avoid Personal Loan Rejection
Bankrupt Loans
Personal Loan Credit Card Debt
Cheers,
Gru
I am trying to find out how I go about consolidating my credit card and personal loans into one payment but not sure how to go about it
Hi Kerrie,
Thank you for your inquiry.
It’s important to consider your options carefully. How much debt do you have and does it include loans and credit card accounts? Make sure you will be able to bring across all your accounts to consolidate. Please check this page for your available option.
I hope this information has helped.
Cheers,
Harold
recently discharged bankrupt 2 months ago.have 3 cash advances money3 total 520 p/week need a car and consolidate debt, 7000 owing on loans need about 8000 for car earning 1300 p/w permanent employment.
Hi Glenn,
Thanks for your question.
On this page, you would find the list of lenders who might consider you for a loan. Please review the criteria, details of the loan product and contact the lender directly to discuss your loan options and eligibility.
Cheers,
May
Hi Glenn, what is in page link?
Hello Rickky!
Thanks for your comment! :)
It is the list of lenders who can offer loans for bankrupts.
Hope this clarifies.
Cheers,
Jonathan
Hi how do i get help to roll all my bills into one det iv applied with two other people who cold not help me out if you can please help thank you
Hi Henrietta,
Your debt consolidation loan options are listed on the page above, but you may not have been approved because you did not meet the lender’s eligibility criteria or that you asked for a loan amount that the lender determined you could not afford. Now you have two recent credit enquiries on your file it will affect your chances of being approved. You may want to consider waiting a few months to apply again, or call the lender directly to discuss your eligibility for the loan. Criteria is also listed on each finder review page.
Hope this helps,
Elizabeth
Hi Harrietta,
Thanks for your comment. finder.com.au is not a lender so we can’t consolidate your debts, rather provide general information on the process.
Each company considers your debt consolidation needs differently, and will rely on a range of factors when considering your application.
If you’d like to read our guide on personal loan rejection, you may find more information.
I am trying to apply for a house.they declined me and said is because of 3 account which I fine it very hard to pay it off but I made arrangement.I pay certain amount on each account but still they declaim my application. Please help me how to get approval I really want a house
Hi Tinyiko,
Thanks for your enquiry, and sorry to hear about your situation.
You might be interested to read our tips about how to get approved for a home loan with bad credit on this page. You can also compare the range of specialist lenders that may be more likely to review your application given that you have some enquiries against your credit file.
Keep in mind that while debt consolidation can make it easier to manage your finances, you may also have to pay a higher interest rate over the life of the loan.
All the best,
Belinda
Can i get a loan or credit card to pay off debt so i only have 1 loan or credit card repayment? I’m falling more and more behind in payments and just want the debt settled as quick as possible.
Thank you!
Hi CK,
Thanks for your question.
As you can see from this page there are a few debt consolidation loans you can consider. To check the eligibility and the details of the loan, click on the title of the loan in the table. You can also apply by clicking ‘Go to Site’ once you’ve found the loan you want to apply for. If you want to balance transfer your personal loan debt, you can compare your options on this page.
I hope this has helped.
Thanks,
Elizabeth
I would like to know the names of some lenders who help people with debt consolidation loans when they have bad credit. Thanks
Hi Kirsty,
Thanks for your question.
You can compare lenders who offer bad credit debt consolidation loans on this page.
I hope this will help.
Thanks,
Elizabeth
Hi there,
Its really confusing me, but could anyone give me an advise?
The thing is that my Mom has a credit balance of $20000 and so does my dad. Which adds up to $40,000.
We don’t have a house, we are renting. But we want to take a home loan to offset it and then buy a house. But we are really lost. We don’t know any solution.
Hi Akki,
Thanks for your question.
If your parents are currently in debt, you’ll find that your options are somewhat limited as lenders aren’t prepared to take on this extra debt.
If you find that none of these loans are suitable for your situation, there is always the option of speaking to a home loan broker. They’ll be able to help you further should need further help in narrowing down a suitable home loan option.
Cheers,
Shirley