In previous articles, I have used the terms “good debt” and “bad debt,” and the latter term undoubtedly has seemed like somewhat of an oxymoron to some. Getting into debt is considered a cardinal sin to many who give advice within the personal finance world. But, while some high-interest debt, such as credit cards, can be bad and lock you into a cycle of owing money for many years, not all debt is necessarily “bad.”
“Bad” Debt Versus “Good” Debt
To better understand how to leverage debt, it is essential first to understand the differences between good and bad debt.“Good” debt typically refers to debt whose purpose can help increase or build wealth over time. Examples of good debt may be mortgages, student loans, or business loans. “Bad” debt often refers to a type of debt whose purpose does little in terms of building wealth or income. Examples of bad debt are credit card debt and other types of consumer debt.
This is a general rule of thumb. The classification of what is good debt and bad debt is not nearly as black and white as these definitions. The actual disparities are much more nuanced, and an individual’s overall financial portfolio should be considered. For example, student loans taken out can certainly be used to open doors that lead to higher-paying careers. However, they can also come at a steep cost which puts college graduates tens of thousands of dollars in debt right out of college, with high monthly payments.
Gravitate Towards Good Debt
Many of us have been taught to avoid debt, and many people are wary. However, prudently taking on debt can help you achieve financial goals and build your net worth. The ability to borrow money can be a strong tool if done wisely. Good debts are worth more than they cost.Stick to taking out debt to fund the purchase of something that will go up in value. Good debt improves your life, while bad debt will keep you from reaching any financial goals. Both mortgages and student loans are often cited as good debt. Since your home’s value can appreciate and a college degree can lead to higher-paying jobs, both are often considered good debt. However, borrowing more than you can afford or not understanding the mortgage terms can result in a risky endeavor. Likewise, if your major of choice does not result in an adequately paying job to pay down the debt, college debt can certainly be a cause for concern.
Investing in small business loans is often considered good debt, assuming the business can become successful and turn a profit. Small business loans are similar to student loans in that the purpose is to help you earn more money in the future.
Avoid Bad Debt Entirely if Possible
Bad debt is debt that costs more than it’s worth, and that can have detrimental consequences, such as bankruptcy. Simply put, bad debt is generally any debt that can never be repaid by the activity the debt originally funded. Bad debt often does not provide a good return for its investment and has a negative impact on credit scores.Credit card debt is perhaps the biggest source of bad debt for people. Credit cards charge high-interest rates, and their fees can continue to accumulate to unmanageable levels. If you pay down your balance every month, credit cards can be good tools to build credit, manage cash flow and earn reward points and bonuses.
Payday loans target people who do not have good credit and otherwise would not qualify for credit cards or other types of loans. These people often seek short-term financial help via payday loans or check-cashing stores. However, these services often come with exorbitant interest rates and fees that leave them in a worse state. These services are often used by individuals in dire financial straits. Avoid them at all costs, as the cost is far greater than the short-term benefit.
Decide if the Debt Is Worth It
Debt is an essential aspect of modern life. It can certainly have dire financial consequences if structured poorly or dangerously. However, if structured strategically, calculated debt can set you up for a healthier financial future.The first question to ask yourself is how the purchase benefits you. Think in the long-term about this rather than the short-term. Does taking on this debt provide a tangible, lasting benefit, that ultimately outweighs the cost of the debt, or is it merely something that satisfies an impulse or short-term desire you cannot afford?