6 Ways to Maintain a Debt-Free Lifestyle

It might appear impossible, but many consumers succeed in living their entire lives without any debt. People of a variety of ages and income levels have made this choice. It’s not an easy feat, but if it’s something you truly want, don’t let naysayers talk you out of it. Some dedicated savers have even seen results after committing to a spending fast or spending diet, in which participants set limits on how much money they can spend on certain needs and wants. There are countless methods out there for consumers looking to cut spending, pay back debt, or avoid it all together. The important thing is to select a system that works for you. You know what your weaknesses are, so choose accordingly.

The Urban Institute found 35% of American adults have a report of debt in collections. This can include non-mortgage debt that is more than 180 days past due, such as a credit card balance, medical bill, or utility bill. There are a number of ways to find legitimate debt assistance or helpful strategies for coping with debt. This article’s primary focus is the practical lifestyle choices that will help consumers avoid accruing debt in the first place. While this commitment requires tremendous discipline, you may find that it is well worth it to revel in the knowledge that not a dime of your hard earned money is being wasted on paying interest. Whether you’ve held debt in the past or not, it is within your power to keep it out of your life going forward. Here are six ways to completely avoid incurring debt.

1. Build a large savings

Working toward a sizable savings account is difficult, but it’s also the most important way to stay out of debt. Think of your savings as preparation for unexpected expenses. This way, when medical bills or car repairs pop up, you won’t bat an eye. Saving is also essential for long-term expenses you might not even be planning for yet, such as a child’s education or a new home. Your savings will come in handy for more enjoyable purchases as well, such as an impromptu trip. But without a hefty balance in your savings account, life’s unexpected costs will sneak up on you, posing a threat to your debt-free lifestyle. Keep in mind that by living a life without loans, you will be cutting out a lot of monthly payments that other consumers take on, creating more room in your budget to maintain a healthy savings.

2. Pay off credit card transactions immediately

It’s not necessary to deal exclusively in cash in order to avoid debt. For some, it helps to use physical currency to avoid making impulse buys or running up a huge credit card balance. A credit card makes certain things easier, such as traveling, renting a car, or making hotel reservations, but charging purchases isn’t the only way to build credit. If you know yourself, and a credit card isn’t something you can handle, don’t get one. Otherwise, don’t be afraid to use credit cards to your advantage for rewards points and/or cash back. If you decide to have a credit card or even more than one, make it a strict rule to pay off each purchase you make on the same day. Never wait for the monthly bill. This will force you to actually think about how much money you have in your budget before you swipe.

3. Buy a cheap used car

 Most middle class Americans can’t afford to buy new cars outright, so many opt to take on a car payment. No one needs a car loan. There are plenty of reliable used cars out there. There is risk involved in purchasing a used car, but there is also risk in dealing with crafty salesmen at dealerships, who often upsell you on expensive and restrictive warranties. Do your research on reliable car models, find a good mechanic, and use your best judgment when buying your vehicle. You might just get a great deal on a car that will last for years with relatively little maintenance. Public transportation can be an affordable choice as well, depending on your location, but in rural areas a car could very well be a necessity.

4. Go to community college

As far as higher education is concerned, students willing to take out loans certainly have more options, and many wisely choose to go this route. However, that doesn’t mean you have to borrow money to get a great education. Many students save thousands by starting at a community college before transferring to a more prestigious university. Scholarships and grants also go a long way. No one can be blamed for choosing to take out student loans, especially for medical school or other specialized programs. But with student loan debt in the U.S. now exceeding credit card debt, many wise students are choosing to slowly work their way through college instead.

5. Rent

Renting for life sounds like a nightmare to some people, but real estate is not cheap. If you are committed to staying debt-free, housing will likely be your biggest challenge. That said, saving up for a modest home is totally plausible for most middle class Americans (provided you aren’t living somewhere like Southern California). Yes, it could take a long time, depending on your income level, but spending a number of years renting and saving could ultimately be a rewarding experience. Long-term renters know that this lifestyle has its challenges and frustrations, but there are fair landlords out there, and renter’s insurance is affordable. If you are single and living alone is out of your budget, perhaps due to living in a metropolitan area, consider renting a room or subletting until you can find an unusually good deal.

6. Buy only what you need

Impulse shoppers won’t like this one, but it’s amazing the amount of money that can be saved by practicing one straightforward strategy: Think before you buy. In some cases, think very far in advance of buying. Research the best deals and practice listening to the little voice in your head that asks, “Do I actually need this?” You don’t have to live off the grid or be a hermit to practice minimal consumerism. Life costs money, but you can learn to have fun without spending a fortune. Like anything, it takes practice. If you know you are going to require strict guidelines to stay in the money-saving mindset, make an actual budget on paper and set reasonable rules for yourself.