These tips will help you create a payment plan that isn’t overwhelming.

The average amount of credit card debt held by balance-carrying U.S. households is more than $16,000, according to Federal Reserve figures for 2017. Are you one of the many Americans searching for the best ways to pay off credit card debt?

Read on or watch the short video above for tips to help you pay off your debt and keep more of your hard-earned money in your pocket.

Assess your credit situation
The first step to managing your credit card debt is to get the details on paper. Write down line by line each of your debts – including interest rates – as well as your income and other expenses. Once you’ve documented the numbers, you have the foundation for creating a budget which allows you to design a realistic plan to pay it all off.

Make a plan and stick to it 
Create a strategy that outlines how much you will realistically pay toward your credit card debt each month and how long it will take to achieve your repayment goals.

Then – and most importantly – adopt the best practices that will help get you in the right mindset and ensure that you will commit to your plan.

Managing your credit card usage 
The first step to managing your credit usage and keep debt in check is to plan on paying your credit card bill in full each month instead of letting that balance grow in interest. Keep track on paper by writing down your credit card balances – including interest – as well as other income and expenses. Once you’ve documented these numbers, you have the foundation for creating a budget, which allows you to design a realistic plan to pay off debt and use your credit card wisely.  

Paying off your debt may take time, but it will be a sound investment that pays dividends in improved management skills to make your money work for your future. Continue reading to learn more about U.S. Bank credit cards.