New Phone?

In 2006 I had to declare bankruptcy due to overwhelming debt. It was a choice of voluntarily declaring bankruptcy or ending up in court being forced to, with or without jail time. So I chose to do it voluntarily. Sure, I could have staved off any court action for another 6 months or so, but it would have come eventually and I just couldn't live with all the stress of debt collectors calling, emailing and sending letters constantly asking for money I didn't have to give them and still be able to feed, clothe and house myself and my son so I bit the bullet.

Because it was voluntary and my debts were under $10,000 in total my bankruptcy period was only 3 years. I believe if it were over 10 grand and I was forced, legally, into it then it would have been 7 years. I think it also helped that I didn't have any assets as they see them. Eg, no cars, boats, mortgage or large purchases made on credit that they could repossess. I got to keep everything I had and because I haven't worked (not from lack of trying mind you) I didn't have to make any payments towards my debts during my 3 year bankruptcy period.

These days I've become very efficient at living within my means. I budget well, my household bills are paid in advance. Usually when my bills arrive they all say 'amount in credit $' and then 'no payment required' which is great. I wouldn't say I'm rolling in cash but I do have a better grip on what I do get. I make sure everything is paid when it should be and even have money left over now and again to spend on myself and my son and I've started a savings account, for the first time in my life.

I said a long time ago that I'd never get another mobile phone on a plan, 2 of my main debts on my bankruptcy were mobile phone plans, but I've seen a phone I adore on a $29 cap plan. I'd get this phone below...

Blackberry Curve 8520

and only have to pay $29 a month for 2 years to own it outright, and I'm pretty sure I can upgrade it to a newer model half way through that contract. As things stand now I get a $29 pre-paid cap for the mobile I have every month and usually have $20-$30 left over when it expires.

Seeing as I already budget in the $29 per month for my pre-paid mobile, I don't see it being a problem coming up with the $29 for my capped plan. It gives me $150 worth of credit per month to use, the same as my pre-paid cap does, I just get a new phone in the bargain.

I have been "umming" and 'Ahhhing' over it for 2 days now and have come to the decision to give it a go. There's no guarantee I'll even be approved for it though, seeing as I have my bankruptcy against my credit rating, but it can't hurt to try. If I am denied I'll purchase it outright in a few months time and continue on with my $29 pre-paid cap as usual.

Will update when I've given it a go and let you know the verdict.

Wish me luck