If you are reading this article, then chances are high that it is because you in debt. Now, debt counseling organizations can help you get out of debt faster by consolidating your loans, but rarely do they address why you got into debt in the first place. Unless there were some unforeseen and unchangeable circumstances that forced you into debt (such as illness or the need for a college education), you shouldn’t really owe money to anyone.

Here are two tips that will help you stay clear of debt in the future:

Never use credit cards. If you can use cash, do it. Since most stores will give you discounts if you use cash, that should be reason enough to do so. Remember that when you use credit cards, you are effectively paying more for our purchase than you otherwise would, since you will be paying an interest rate for that purchase. Additionally, it is too easy to rack up purchases with a credit card, and you are more prone to buy things that you do not really need. Not having a credit card will force you to examine all your purchases more carefully.

Have an emergency fund. The future always demands preparation. Since you never know exactly what will happen, you should have resources available in case of an emergency. One of the most common causes of bankruptcy is unexpected medical expenses. If at all possible, insure yourself against this risk – it will pay dividends in the future. Alternatively, keep a fund that can keep you going in case of an emergency, such as hospitalization and sudden unemployment.

Be disciplined with your money and you will not only get out of debt, but avoid getting into it in the first place.