Bankrate.com

debt

7 safe borrowing tips to keep debt in check

What is bad debt?
Next
7 of 11
Back
What is bad debt?

The term bad debt refers to borrowing to pay for items that depreciate in value, such as credit cards and auto loans.

Today's borrowers have to toe a fine line, Feddis says. They should be wary of overextending, but they should also acknowledge that even bad debt can be good in moderation.

"When credit is used responsibly, it has great value," she says. "It can build wealth, or be used for emergencies or for getting through a rough time. But it is important to understand what the commitment is."


 

 

advertisement

Compare Home Equity Rates



advertisement
Bankrate on Facebook
debt
Increase your HELOC payments to pay down some of the debt before the loan is due.
advertisement
Share your tip to win $100Smart Spending
Are you a champ at cutting costs? Enter your tip in our Frugal $ense contest to be eligible to win $100. There’s a new winner every month.
Is your money safe?
or ? See your bank, thrift or credit union's star rating. Find one that's safe enough for you.
Partner Center
advertisement