Eight ways to get out and stay out of debt

• Track your spending - It's easier to free up some cash once you see where it's going.

• Have a plan and set goals - Budget. As with any type of money diet, if it's too restrictive, you will overspend.

• Spend within budget - Transportation and food are the biggest problem areas when it comes to overspending.

• Pay more than you have to - Monthly payments may be the biggest luxury credit cards have to offer, but they can also be your biggest downfall, pay more than the minimum every time you can.

• Carry only one credit card - To keep spending on track, keep one card for emergencies.

• Don't buy more than you can afford - If you're considering a new home, go house hunting only after you have figured out how much house you can afford.

• Don't make shopping a hobby - Careful price checking can keep costs down, or you can wait for merchandise to go on sale instead of buying on impulse.

• Shop for utilities and insurance - Trimming the fat from your spending plan may be easier if you double-check the premiums on your auto, home and life insurance policies. Deregulation within the utility industry makes it possible to compare rates.