I am 23, $9000 in debt, living paycheck to paycheck, and need money for upcoming expenses. How do I tackle all of this?

Debt

I have tried to set up a budget, but I feel like I am not making enough money to cover my monthly expenses and start paying down my debt.

 

I make 16.50 an hour and try to work 30 hours a week. I get paid bi-weekly and after taxes my checks range from 700-800. My re-occurring expenses are-

cell phone: $100/ month,

car insurance $250/ month,

credit cards min payments: ~$300/month,

gas: $35 every 5 days,

gym membership: $50.

 

I am also in a DUI court mandated program that add these expenses for 6 more months-

counseling center: $40/ week,

random drug testing: ~$20/ week,

BIID: $55/ month,

case management fees: $500 due in 6 months (I can break this up in payments),

lawyer fees: $850 remaining.

 

I drive an older car that is running, but needs about $2000 in repairs to last me at least 5 more years.

 

I am a photographer currently working at a studio, but I want to branch off to my own business. I need about $3000 to get the camera, computer, and equipment I need to start.

 

I am living with my parents, but my commute to work is 35 minutes one way. I want to move out, but I want to live alone. Rent would be about $615 a month plus electric.

 

I feel like the smartest thing is to tackle a majority of my debt before I move out, but with my monthly expenses, I don't know how to put aside enough money to save and pay off my credit cards.

Posted May 29, 2016, 7:20 PM UTC · edited

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