Millions of Americans — even those that earn big paychecks — struggle with debt. There’s no easy solution, but there are a few ways to help break free from burdensome debt. Hopefully, these 10 financial tips can help get you started.

1. BE ACCOUNTABLE.
   Take charge of your finances and know your numbers. Make a list of what you owe this month and compare it to your paycheck. Sometimes seeing it on paper makes it real and easier to face.
2. REVIEW YOUR PAYCHECK.
   You get paid a gross income. However, by the time taxes, insurance and retirement contributions are deducted; your “take-home” pay is less — sometimes much less. Be sure your spending budget is based upon this net income and not the gross. Otherwise, you may be adding to your debt without knowing it.
3. LOG YOUR SPENDING.
   What you spend each month is different from what you owe. In fact, it’s in addition to what you owe. Keep track of the money you spend on things like lunches, coffee, haircuts and happy hours. You might be surprised how quickly it all adds up.
4. MAKE THE CUT.
   Let’s start with groceries, for example. Did you know that the average family of four spends about $450 a month on food? That’s a significant amount of money! What a great place to start looking for ways to save. Food clubs can help, especially when you buy in bulk. And rather than going out, try packing just two lunches a week. A little quick math will tell you just how much you’ll save in a week, a month or even a year.
5. GET A SECOND JOB.
   The bottom line is you need to make more than you spend. So, look at your lists — incoming and outgoing expenses — and decide whether you need to consider a second job. The good news is that technology has made it possible to offer many, many options that work for stay-at-home parents and those that need flexible schedules. Best of all, once your debt is under control, you can have the satisfaction of quitting.
6. ASK FOR HELP.
   It’s not easy to ask for help, but there are several government services available and all you need to do is apply. Contact your county directly, or check out state and federal websites to see about free job training, food stamps and free medical care. Social media sites might help you find complimentary local services like veterinary services or childcare.
7. TACKLE THE CREDIT CARDS.
   If you want to beat credit card companies at their own game, pay on time and always pay more than the minimum. Otherwise, you end up paying for “extra time” and you’ll remain in a spiral of debt. It doesn’t hurt to ask for lower interest rates either. In fact, nearly half of all customers who make the request actually succeed. And if you’re up for a challenge, put away the credit cards and use cash instead. You’ll likely find you spend a lot less.
8. AVOID BANKING FEES.
   Simply keep an eye of your account balance so you can avoid overdrafts. Most banks offer online banking that make monitoring your account a breeze. All you need is access to the Internet.
9. SAY GOODBYE TO SHOPPING.
   If you’re tempted by the mall or online shopping sites, like Amazon.com or Overstock.com, stay away. It’s too easy to make unnecessary purchases. Here’s a test to see if you fall victim to frivolous spending. Make a list of your recent purchases. Wait a few days and label each of them as either a “Want,” “Need” or “Just Because.” That should paint a pretty clear picture.
10. POLISH YOUR CREDIT RATING.
    A good credit rating enables you to get better terms on all of the money you borrow. Check with the three major credit bureaus — Experian, Trans Union and Equifax — to see where you stand. You can dispute any discrepancies that make you look like a risk. If they don’t remove the items, they’ll include an explanation in your file. Go to www.annualcreditreport.com to get a FREE credit report.