Have you ever considered getting a second debt consolidation loan after taking out the first one? When I was approved for my initial consolidation loan, I felt so relieved to have a single monthly payment at a much lower interest rate. But after a while, I realized I could benefit from consolidating all my remaining debts.
But the issue then, I wasn’t sure if getting a second debt consolidation loan was allowed or advisable. Could I actually take out another one to bundle additional credit card balances and personal loans into one payment? Were there any downsides or risks to consider if I did this?
These were all questions swirling in my mind. I knew that paying off debt faster would help restore my financial health quicker. But I wanted to make sure I understood the implications before taking on more debt to do it.
In my research, I learned some helpful facts about the possibility of getting a second consolidation loan that put my mind at ease. If you’ve been considering this path too, read on. I’ll share what I discovered about the pros, cons, and steps for qualifying for a second debt consolidation loan so you can make the most informed decision.
Table of Contents
All You Need to Know About Consolidation
Consolidation in general has a different meaning. It means combining different entities into a single and bigger company.
In accounting, consolidation means starting financial statements that present the combined financial positions.
Lastly, consolidation means paying off your debts at once, that is it has to do with paying off several debts at once.
Amongst the three different meanings of consolidation, in this write up, we are going to be considering the last definition which is debt consolidation. Paying up your debt at once.
Having been cleared on what debt consolidation means, we move on to the next.
What Is a Loan?
A loan is a financial agreement between two people. Which are: a lender and borrower. The lender provides the money and the borrower receives the money and they have an agreement on how it would be paid with interest.
Two Parties Involved In a Loan
- The lender: The lender provides the money and you are expected to pay back with interest. The lender could be a bank, credit union, peers and so on.
- The borrower: This is the person who receives the money and he or she is expected to pay back a certain time, depending on what the agreement entails.
What To Consider Before Taking a Loan
- Before you take a loan, ensure that you are in need of the money.
- Calculate the monthly interest and make sure it is what you can repay.
- Go around for the best rate that works with you. Meet with different lenders to find a favorable offer.
- Study the loan agreement carefully, that is the interest rates, fees, payment terms before you sign the document.
Now that you have gained clarity on what a loan is and how it works, let us move.
Can I Have 2 Consolidation Loans?
Getting two loans to pay your debt depends on you, you have to put a lot into consideration before arriving at how you would get two loans to clear all your debt
Taking out a debt consolidation loan can provide relief by rolling multiple debts into one new loan with a lower monthly payment. But is it possible to get a second debt consolidation loan after you already have one? Let’s explore the answer.
The Short Answer
Generally, yes you can take out a second debt consolidation loan even if you already have one. However, approval will depend on your current financial situation and ability to qualify again.
The Longer Answer
Getting approved for a second consolidation loan is not guaranteed. Lenders will evaluate your eligibility based on factors like:
- Your credit score and history –
You’ll need a score high enough to qualify for the new loan. Defaulting on previous debts can make approval difficult.
- Your income
Proof of steady income is required to demonstrate you can afford the new monthly payments.
Your existing debt-to-income ratio – Lenders may deny new loans if your overall debt load is already too high compared to your income.
- Collateral (if secured loan)
For a secured loan, you may need available collateral to back it.
- Your progress paying current debts
If you’ve been late on existing payments, new consolidation requests may be denied.
If approved, a second consolidation loan lets you roll more debts into a single payment. This can further simply repayment and lower interest costs. But beware over-consolidating and putting yourself at risk of overspending again. Debt consolidation loans should go towards existing balances, not new purchases.
I will share with you the pros and cons of getting two loans to pay all your debt, not just one debt. Reading through the pros and cons will help you answer your question, if it is for you to get two loans to get your debt cleared or you stick to one. Let’s continue.
Pros Of Having 2 Consolidation Loans
- Consolidating additional debts:
If your first debt consolidation loan did not pay all your debt, then a second one should be able to pay it all and also settle your remaining interest that is yet to be paid or settled.
- Lower interest rates:
This depends on your creditworthiness and the loan terms, you might have a lower score interest rate with the second loan you opt in for, which will definitely bring about reduction with your debt burden.
- Spread payments across more time:
Getting two loans would certainly help you extend your repayment terms, it makes your monthly payment manageable. It means paying interest for a longer period of time, costs you more ultimately.
Cons Of Having 2 Consolidation Loans
- There is increase in your debt burden:
Getting a second loan, double your debt. It strains your budget and it makes it harder for you to save and use money for other goals.
- Your credit score impact:
Requesting for another loan aside the previous one could affect your credit score negatively , it might reduce your credit score and make it harder for you to qualify for favorable loan terms in the future.
- Management complexity:
Having multiple loan payments and deadlines can be overwhelming and choking. If there is an increase in the risk of missed payment and late fees, it may result in something else.
Factors To Consider Before Having 2 Consolidation Loans
Before considering to take another debt consolidation, you have to consider your finances and also ask yourself the following question:
- Can I manage my current consolidation loan? If you have issues or you are finding it hard with your first loan, adding another loan to it might not be advisable.
- Have I tried other debt reduction options? Having a budget, negotiating with your creditors and going for credit counseling would help you.
- Can I afford additional payments? Make sure the new loan payment fits your budget and expenses.
Conclusion
Remember in getting a second loan, you have to be transparent. Let the lenders know about the past debts you are owing before you apply for a new one.
Ask for guidance from financial advisors and credit counselors to guide you on how to go about it.
The decision of taking a second loan is personal. Study the pros and cons and set your priority right. Seek expert advice before taking such a financial decision.
