Are Debt Consolidation Loans Worth It?
Managing multiple debts can feel like a juggling act, with credit cards, car finance, and personal loans all competing for your attention.
A debt consolidation loan promises to make life simpler by rolling those debts into a single repayment. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons.
The Pros
Lower Interest Rates
The biggest advantage is often the interest savings. Credit cards in Australia commonly charge 18–22%, while a consolidation loan would likely be far lower, which may significantly reduce the interest you pay over time.
Simplified Repayments
Instead of tracking different due dates and amounts, you’ll have one predictable repayment. This makes budgeting easier and helps reduce the chance of missed payments or late fees.
Improved Cash Flow
By locking in a lower interest rate or stretching the loan over a longer term, you can reduce your monthly repayments. For households under pressure, this extra breathing room can make a big difference.
Psychological Relief
Debt spread across multiple accounts can feel overwhelming. Consolidation creates clarity, a single path to becoming debt-free, which will likely result in a far lighter mental load.
The Cons
Longer Loan Terms
A smaller monthly repayment might help in the short term, but if the term is much longer, you could pay more overall in interest. That ‘cheaper option’ might cost more in the long run.
Hidden Fees
Establishment fees, early exit penalties on existing loans, or new account charges can eat into the savings. Without crunching the numbers, borrowers risk ending up worse off.
False Sense of Progress
Consolidation clears the slate, but if spending habits don’t change, it’s easy to rack up fresh debts on top of the new loan. This “double debt” scenario is where many borrowers come unstuck.
Secured Loan Risks
Some consolidation loans are secured against your home or other assets. While this can reduce the rate, it also means you’re putting major assets on the line if you default.
Debt consolidation works best when the new loan has a genuinely lower interest rate, the term is reasonable, and you’re disciplined enough to close old credit cards and avoid new borrowing. For someone paying 20% on a credit card and 15% on a personal loan, it’s worth looking at your options.
The best place to start is by speaking to us, who can help compare your options.
*This information is general in nature and does not take into consideration your individual circumstances. Please contact us for further information.
