Getting out of debt is no simple matter. Fixing your finances can take a lot of hard work and sacrifice, however, in the long run it's well worth it. Whether you want to buy, refinance, or remodel your home, buy a car, or even get your degree, bad debt can ruin your life. That said, it's not impossible to get back on track. It only takes a little know how and a lot of dedication and you can work towards a better, debt free life. Not sure where to start? Here are some viable options for individuals or families looking to free themselves from the clutches of debt.

• Make a Budget

It's remarkable just how many people spend their hard earned money blindly. Not tracking you're spending is possibly one of the easiest ways to fall into debt and can make it almost impossible to get out of existing debt. If you're serious about getting out of debt, take a half hour of your life to make a budget. Include all bills as well as daily or monthly living expenses like fuel for your car or groceries. Once you've totaled all necessary expenses, create a budget that allows you to closely monitor or curtail you're spending. Try to cut unnecessary items out. While it may be hard in the beginning, once you are out of debt you'll appreciate the fact that you gave up that summer vacation or your cable subscription. Create a budget that controls your spending for at least four to six months and then reevaluate your situation and make the necessary changes if any exist.

• Over Pay

Credit card bills can take hold of your life and leave you a slave to the collectors. It's hard to keep up with every bill, but once you've budgeted you may be better able to keep up with due dates. One of the best things you can do to help get your credit on track is to overpay your credit card bills when possible. Even an additional twenty to thirty dollars can help you pay the debt off faster; improve your credit rating; and lower interest rates. While you may not be able to over pay on a monthly basis, whenever you have a few extra bucks laying around put it towards your credit card debt.

• Set up a Savings

Buying big ticket items on credit can sound like a great idea at first but it can often be a recipe for disaster. While promises of low interest or no financing are enticing, it's what happens after the introductory rate and agreements are null and void when consumers find themselves in a world of trouble. By keeping a savings and waiting until you have enough saved to purchase big ticket items you can cut down on additional debt.

• Consider Your Options

Even though it may seem like you're at the mercy of careless creditors with no compassion, you do have options. Debt consolidation can be a tremendous help for many who find themselves in the clutches of financial turmoil. Buy combining you're debt, you will be able to work with a third party to decrease payments and interest rates, bringing you one step closer to debt relief. For many, this is one of the only viable options to solving their financial conundrum. There are also various credit counseling agencies available to you. Do your homework, get informed, and find out what options are available to you.