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If you are trying to get out of credit card debt, you might want to think about giving your credit card company a call. Why?

If you have a high interest rate, you can ask them to charge you a lower rate…

If you have been charged a late fee, you can ask them to waive it…

If you are over your limit, you can ask them to increase it…

If you want to consolidate balances, you can ask them to waive balance transfer fees…

If you decide to call, be patient, be polite, get first names, and be persistent.

When I was getting out of debt, I called each credit card company once a month and I asked them to lower my rates. Over a 10 month period, my rates were lowered on three different occasions.

One quick note - If you are averse to confrontation - if you struggle when talking to people - simply ‘work’ your way through the conversation -confidently.

Put your emotions to the side.

Avoid sounding desperate.

Let them know that you are thinking about taking your business to another company.

Never be intimidated.

Remember, the number on the back of the card is toll-free. Shoot, even if they don’t change your rate, at least they have to pay for the phone call. :) (Before you leave a comment reminding me that the credit card company will pass that phone charge on to their customers - I know, I know. I’m making a joke.)

Getting out of debt rocks! Now, go make those phone calls!!!