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The Daily Insight Hub

Should I consolidate my credit cards to one card?

Author

Rachel Davis

Updated on February 04, 2026

Consolidating debt works best when you can score a lower interest rate on the new loan or credit card than what you’re currently paying. If you have multiple debt accounts you want to consolidate, the process can also simplify repayment by giving you just one monthly payment to keep track of.

What documents are needed for debt consolidation?

Debt consolidation qualifications

  • Proof of income – this is one of the most important debt consolidation qualifications.
  • Credit history – lenders will check your payment history and credit report.
  • Financial stability – lenders want to know that you’re a good financial risk.

How do I combine all my credit cards into one?

If you want to combine accounts, you have to contact your card issuer. “It is as simple as giving the credit card company a call and telling them that you’d like to close X account but combine the available balance with another credit card,” Shauers says.

What happens when you consolidate your credit card debt?

When you consolidate your credit card debt, you are taking out a new loan. You have to repay the new loan just like any other loan. If you get a consolidation loan and keep making more purchases with credit, you probably won’t succeed in paying down your debt.

Can You consolidate credit cards and student loans?

In general, you can only consolidate similar types of debt. While you can consolidate credit cards and student loans, you usually have to keep them separate. If you owe multiple types of debt, you may need more than one debt consolidation plan. Types of Debt Consolidation Debts that can be included

What are the different types of debt consolidation?

Types of Debt Consolidation Debts that can be included Unsecured debt consolidation (commonly called “credit card debt consolidation” or “credit consolidation” Credit cards Store cards Gas cards Charge cards Unsecured personal loans, including personal debt consolidation loans Unpaid medical bills

Where can I get a debt consolidation loan?

Banks, credit unions, and installment loan lenders may offer debt consolidation loans. These loans collect many of your debts into one loan payment. This simplifies how many payments you have to make.