We've seen record numbers of bankruptcies every year. The lending industry feels there are a number of filings that are abusive and could have been avoided.

The larger banks are seeing a lot of market share in this area, but the larger credit unions and the ones being run by ex-bankers are setting up arrangements where a non-member can finance a car right at the dealership just by signing up to be a member.

A lot of people get a home equity loan and do it on their own, short of going to a credit counseling agency. You can consolidate your credit card debt and have a lower monthly payment that will maybe get you through a squeeze.

Think about the relative merit of variable rates versus fixed-rate credit. Locking in a fixed rate now gives you a great deal of comfort. Even though the lowest rate might be a variable rate, those could start to climb again next year.

Any change in rates on home equity lines is directly related to the actions of the Fed. On average, their rates are 1 percent over the prime rate, but some banks even offer home equity lines at the prime. Home equity lines are probably the cheapest way that homeowners can currently borrow money.

Not every place right off the bat will offer you a good rate. One company may offer you 15 percent. Another may offer you 11 percent.