[Aleta]

First of all, I would like to commend you at your age for what you are doing. I think that is great. I would remind you that Rome wasn't built in a day. When We were getting out of debt, it became our main focus and we were determined to do whatever we could think of to get out of debt. We didn't even go to a McDonald's for 3 monthis. The time we went, we shared a BigMac and fries. We could only save $5. at a time, but it was mainly about getting into the habit of saving and yes we contributed to our IRA's but not as much as we were allowed.

I can remember wanting something and that my birthday was coming up, so I mentioned the item to my Mom and I got it for my birthday. There could be CD's that others could give you as gifts for your birthday or the holidays. All of this must seem overwhelming to you, but know that we all were where you were once. Actually, your debt is not that bad. If you continue to read the blogs, the numbers will make you stagger and yet these people have dug themselves out of the hole.

You haven't mentioned whether you eat out everyday or not. I just assume that you do. Eating out eats a huge whole in your budget. Minimizing your driving time helps also. Using coupons is a big help. Alot of us do surveys here and a small as they are, it helps.

Definitely change your withholding amounts and use that money to pay off your debts. You're paying over 25%. and that's horible. If you can save up to $250., you can open up a savings account online with INGDirect and they will give you $25. There are links on this website from Jeffrey to do that. As others have said, get a notebook and start writing down all of your expenses. As David Bach, a financial planner explains about the LATTE FACTOR, ($3. a day for coffee, times 5 days a week, times 52 weeks a year ends up to$780.00 a year. It add up. There are alot of great ideas on this forum. Keep on reading to see how others come up with ideas to save. It's easier than you think especially with your food, gas and other miscellaneious items that you buy.

PS I can remember my husband and I selling alumimum to have extra money to pay on debt.