 TITLE: Should I Pay Off My Credit Card With a Personal Loan? CONTENT: How to Pay Off Credit Card Debt Without a Personal Loan\n-------------------------------------------------------\nThere are lots of other ways to pay off credit card debt if a personal loan isn't an option for you. Balance transfer credit cards allow you to move your credit card balance to a card with 0% APR for a period of time. This is a solid choice if you have good or excellent credit, which you'll need for a balance transfer card with favorable terms, and you're able to pay off the debt during the interest-free period.\nYou may also choose to send any extra money you earn or save to certain debts to get rid of them, starting with your smallest balance or highest-rate debt. Paying off your smallest debts first, known as the debt snowball method, won't save you as much money as the debt avalanche, during which you'll pay off balances with the highest interest rates first. But the ideal method for your situation is the one that will encourage you to keep going and get your balances down to zero.\nYou might also consider working with a certified credit counselor at a nonprofit credit counseling agency. A credit counselor can provide a free evaluation of your debt and offer suggestions for paying it off, taking into account your budget, debt balances and other financial goals.\nOne additional consideration: As compelling as it may be, it's best not to close the account when your credit card balance is paid off. Closing a credit card account reduces your overall available credit and, if you have a balance on other cards, will increase your credit utilization ratio and have a negative effect on your credit scores.\nOn the other hand, if keeping the account open tempts you keep charging to it, then closing it may be your best bet. END