After you've consolidated your debt, consider what credit cards

Don't make any decisions on a whim. Seriously, you're talking about your personal finances here, something that will affect the quality of your life in many ways. Because of this, real research is needed. Understand what got you here, learn about your options, and fully research the debt consolidation firms you are considering.

Some creditors will consider your debt as paid off if you can give them enough cash to cover 70% of what you owe them. Contact your different creditors to see if they are interested in this kind of payment arrangement. Try gathering as much cash as possible so you can make a reasonable offer to your creditors.

After you've consolidated your debt, consider what credit cards you don't need. Remember what got you here in the first place. Do you need all of that credit? Do you feel the itch to use it? Don't fall back into bad habits. Get rid of any cards that are unnecessary.

If you are going through debt consolidation, you need to go through interest rate arbitration before you consolidate your debt. In this arbitration you could receive a reduction in your interest rate. This translates into lower monthly payments for your total debt. Gradually your credit score will also increase with on time payments as well.