Finally debt free!

[BarclaycardBosh]

A few years ago I got into a major mess with money through my own stupidity and lack of income exacerbated by the pandemic. Long story short I ran up £17,000 on my credit card and was struggling to keep up with repayments. I never missed one, just was utterly skint every single month. Total head in the sand situation, and I didn’t tell anyone including my husband (he knew I had some debt but not to that extent - I have since confessed!).

Barclaycard were brilliant and put me on a 4 year Paydown Plan with a much lower interest rate and manageable repayments. I cried on the phone.

Today, 3 years later (so 1 year early) I have finally PAID IT OFF and am totally debt free apart from our mortgage for the first time in many many years.

I’m so happy this morning but can’t share with my real life people as I’m ashamed I got into such a pickle. But I just wanted to say to those out there with debt to speak to their creditors and make a sensible plan, they will be able to help you.

Celebratory cup of tea and some posh shortbread for me this morning!

BTW if you are also a Barclays current account holder, the Rainy Day saver pays excellent interest (over 5%) up to 5k and has no penalty for withdrawing. You have to sign up to blue rewards to get it but that covers itself in regards to cost (in fact you get more back if you have other products like mortgage or insurance).

Sorry that sent I think before I had finished - you did amazing 👏 you should be super proud of yourself - not easy at all to say no to those treats every now and again…

@Debtcrusher thank you! Just realised it’s been over a year since I became free. I’ve saved up so much - really nice to have a solid buffer. It’s payday tomorrow and I still have almost half my wage left from last month. Honestly I can’t believe the difference not having to think about affording small things. Really appreciate your support 😍

Well done!

As a word of warning from someone who has been there - beware the freedom high. It’s a heady thing to be debt free and can mean you make impulsive choices. Keep holding those reins!

I will, don’t worry! As long as I keep my job and the roof doesn’t fall off we should be ok from now on. I think, from years of being skint, I don’t have stupidly expensive tastes anyway, but you’re right to keep a tight control over spending, thank you!