Many Americans struggle to pay off credit card and mortgage debt, as well as student loans. There are programs that can help you get out from under your pile of bills. With a little research, you can get someone else to help pay your bills!
Determine what type of debt you want to pay off. Grants are not readily available for credit card debt relief. A loan consolidation may be more realistic. Your best bet for mortgage or rental debt relief is your local credit union or bank.
Market yourself. It can be hard to find a grant program, but it’s easier if you can find one that awards money based on specific requirements. Grants are available for single mothers, minorities, small business owners, and the disabled, just a few of the groups the grants serve.
Know where to find programs. There are many websites on the Internet specifically designed to help you obtain grant information. Sites ending in .gov are government websites and sites ending in .com are commercial websites of companies designed for profit. Remember the difference when searching online.
Start the application process early. Many of these programs have deadlines that are in March or April. You should make sure you give yourself enough time to get your application.
Get someone else to pay your debts. Programs like AmeriCorps and Teach for America offer to pay off some of your student debt in exchange for a few years of service. While the pay isn’t great at these programs, they do pay off many school loans and offer an opportunity to make a difference.