From a Budget and Credit Counselor, here is some really good advice for people who want to totally eliminate their debt.

Question: “Is it really possible to be totally debt free or is that an unrealistic goal?”

Counselor: “It’s totally realistic and really possible. It’s a mindset, really. If being debt free is what you want, then set that as your goal and then commit yourself to doing everything it takes to get there. I work with members all the time to help them get out of debt and I’ve seen it happen.”

Question: “How would a person get started? I can’t afford to pay extra on my debt.”

Counselor: “Start with the little things, they really do add up. The areas where most of us overspend are on entertainment and groceries. If you spend a lot on dining out or movies and concerts, cut back on that a little. And, watch those items you’re buying at the grocery store. Buy items that will last while they’re on sale. Start comparing costs instead of just dumping items in your cart. You can still ‘have a life’ on what you make, just don’t borrow to get it. And, apply the money you’ve saved directly to your loans.”

Editor: “What do you say to people who say, ‘I won’t ever be debt free; I have a mortgage’.”

Counselor: “A house payment is unavoidable for most of us, but you can still pay it off early. There’s no reason that you can’t pay off a 30-year loan in 17 – 20 years. The key is paying off your little debt first, then start applying what your were paying monthly on the little debt to your mortgage. A lot of people are hung up on that tax deduction they get for mortgage interest. That same money applied to a charity or religious group would still be the same type of deduction. So go ahead and pay off your mortgage early and don’t worry, you can replace that tax deduction.”