![Tip 7]( "Tip 7")
Debtor beware.
Take some time to review your credit reports to make sure they contain accurate information. Get a copy of your reports for free at AnnualCreditReport.com. If you have ugly credit caused by errors, this will hurt your credit score. If you find inaccurate information, dispute the item with the credit bureau that reported it.![Tip 8]( "Tip 8")
If it's too good to be true, it is.
Don't fall for debt settlement scams or schemes. Lenders don't want to settle. If you must, use an attorney or don't do it at all.![Tip 9]( "Tip 9")
Jingle bills, jingle bills ...
Don't forget to plan for 2010 holiday expenses. Every year, people seek help after the holidays because overspending on gifts, travel and other holiday expenses pushes them over the financial edge. Set a limit, fund it with yearlong savings and enjoy the season for a change.![Tip 10]( "Tip 10")
Don't call the Ghostbusters.
Ignoring a financial problem will only make matters worse. Get professional help now if you need it. You can find a trusted, nonprofit, free credit counseling agency at Aiccca.org or Nfcc.org. Card issuers will be required to include a toll-free number for credit counseling on statements after February.<< Read all 2010 money tips
Read tips from previous years: 2005 | 2006 | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 |
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Read more Debt Adviser columns and more stories about debt management. To ask a question of the Debt Adviser go to the "Ask the Experts" page and select "Debt" as the topic.
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