Understanding Debt: Good Debt vs. Bad Debt

Understanding the difference between good debt and bad debt is crucial in managing your finances effectively. While debt is often associated with negative connotations, it’s important to recognize that not all debt is created equal.

Differentiating between good and bad debt allows you to make informed decisions about borrowing money. By prioritizing good debt and minimizing bad debt, you can work towards building a solid financial foundation and achieving your long-term goals.

What is Good Debt?

So, what exactly is good debt? In simple terms, good debt refers to borrowing money for the purchase of investments or assets that have the potential to increase in value or generate income over time. Unlike bad debt, taking on good debt can be seen as an investment in your future.

One key characteristic of good debt is its potential to provide long-term benefits and contribute positively to your financial well-being. For example, student loans can lead to higher earning potential and career opportunities, and real estate investments can generate rental income or result in substantial capital gains once sold.

Another characteristic of good debt is its relatively low interest rate compared to bad debt. Lenders often offer better terms for these types of loans as they have lower risk profiles, usually provide the lender with collateral, and the return on investment is typically better.

Examples of Good Debt

Debts that can be seen as investments in your future and can provide long-term benefits are considered to be good debt. Some examples of good debt include:

• Student loans, as they are used to finance education and acquire valuable skills.
• Mortgages, as they are used to purchase real estate properties that appreciate over time.
• Business loans, as they are used to start, purchase, or expand an enterprise.

What is Bad Debt?

On the other hand, bad debt refers to borrowing money for purchases that do not appreciate or help you generate income. Identifying bad debt is essential for effective financial management. By recognizing and addressing potential risks, you and your business can take proactive measures to mitigate the impact of bad debt on your financial health.

Examples of Bad Debt

When you borrow money to purchase a depreciating asset, or that carries a high-interest rate, it is considered to be bad debt. Some examples of bad debt include:

• Credit card debt, as it is generally used to purchase items that do not generate income or appreciate in value.
• Car loans, as vehicles depreciate in value very quickly.
• Consumer loans, including payday loans and loans used to purchase items with depreciating value.

How Can You Avoid Bad Debt? How Do You Get Out of Debt?

There are many ways you can alter your spending and savings habits to pay off your debts and avoid debt in the future. Below is a list of five tips that you can follow to help you avoid debt or to help pay off your current debt.

1. Create a budget and stick to it.
2. Focus on purchases of items you need over items you want.
3. Limit the number of credit cards you own.
4. Pay your credit card bill in full each month.
5. Have an emergency fund for any future unexpected expenses.

In Conclusion

In today’s financial landscape, the concept of debt often seen negatively. However, it is important to recognize that not all debts are created equal. Understanding the difference between good debt and bad debt allows you to make informed decisions about your financial well-being. If you are interested in a personal investment management service that can help you generate income and help you grow your wealth, we can help. Established in 1985, Bloom Investment Counsel, Inc. is a Toronto-based independent, privately-owned boutique investment management firm with experience in managing more than $2.5B in assets over the years. We provide actively managed, customized Canadian and U.S. dividend-paying portfolios for wealthy individuals, family offices, foundations, corporations, institutions, and trusts. Call us at +1-416-861-9941 or email us at info@bloominvestmentcounsel.com.