Episode 6

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Published on:

27th Dec 2020

Ep. 6 Debt Free In 4 (or 5) Easy Steps

On average Canadians are indebted at 177 per cent of their disposable income—meaning that for every dollar of household after tax income, Canadians owe $1.77. This is just off its all-time high. By comparison, in 1990 that number was just 86 cents. In today's episode, we take you through 5 steps to follow, to finally regain control of your debt and start to steer yourself in the right direction.

Mark starts by looking at debt in general. He compares good debt to bad debt and discussed why it’s never a good idea to have bad debt.

If you follow the first four steps to get out of debt and stay that way, you can avoid the fifth step, which could have the most negative impact on your financial situation.

  1. Making debt repayment a priority in your monthly budget. Tips on how to find extra money in your budget. Apps to help find the best prices on necessities.
  2. Comparing two methods for paying down debt. The Snowball Method vs. the Avalanche Method. Which method can work the fastest. Which method will save more in interest. Which method has the highest likelihood of success.
  3. Don’t create more debt. This one is really important and one where a lot of people trip up.
  4. How to deal with your existing credit cards. Studies show that people spend 15% more when paying with credit, which is why getting rid of your cards could be a solution for you.
  5. Instead of declaring bankruptcy, why a Consumer Proposal might be a better solution.

Links

Dave Ramsey – Snowball method

Debt service ratio calculator

Show artwork for Living Richer

About the Podcast

Living Richer
Living Richer is about enjoying your life today, while planning for the future!
We all want to live a richer and more fulfilled life, and with smart financial planning, it’s possible. That’s what the Living Richer podcast is all about – helping you to align your means with the things that mean most to you, so that you can enjoy your life today, while planning for tomorrow.
Living Richer is Hosted by Mark Shimkovitz, Vice President at Raymond James Ltd. and head of the Living Richer Wealth Management team. Mark's been a financial advisor for over 25 years and takes a life-goals financial planning approach. Living Richer will give you the knowledge, tools and strategies to clarify your goals and priorities, invest wisely and avoid common mistakes. Mark will help you understand how to develop and implement a personalized financial plan that will put you on the right track and keep you moving toward your goals through life’s many transitions. So whether you are just starting out on your financial journey, or well on your way, Living Richer will have something to offer you.


Information in this podcast is from sources believed to be reliable; however, we cannot represent that it is accurate or complete. It is provided as a general source of information and should not be considered personal investment advice or a solicitation to buy or sell securities. Raymond James advisors are not tax advisors and we recommend that clients seek independent advice from a professional advisor on tax-related matters. The views are those of Mark Shimkovitz, and not necessarily those of Raymond James Ltd. Investors considering any investment should consult with their investment advisor to ensure that it is suitable for the investor’s circumstances and risk tolerance before making any investment decision. Securities-related products and services are offered through Raymond James Ltd., member - Canadian Investor Protection Fund. Insurance products and services are offered through Raymond James Financial Planning Ltd., which is not a member - Canadian Investor Protection Fund.