CREDIT CARD TRANSFER - I know this is Old Faithful in the financial services world, but if you can qualify for 0% financing for a year, not only does it save you money, but it may help you kick some unwanted debt out of your life.

Before transferring existing debt onto a new credit card, keep in mind that if you can't pay off the balance before the introductory rate expires, it could cost you in the long run. If you're certain that you can pay the account off during the introductory period it could be a wise move.

WHAT'S YOUR LIFE WORTH? - Do you have a whole life insurance policy with cash value that you're not using right now? If you do, you can borrow against its value in order to pay off some bills. The good news is that the interest rate on this kind of loan is usually better than you can get on the open market and if you default it won't hit your credit report. The bad news is that if you die before you repay the loan, your beneficiary will receive less money. Which is OK if you really don't like your beneficiary anyway...?

NOT FOR PROFIT CONSUMER CREDIT COUNSELING AGENCIES- If your back's against the wall, this option may be your best choice for debt relief, because they can usually negotiate better repayment terms than you can get on your own.

This option also has a possible drawback: depending on what they negotiate, you could wind up with some credit score damage by utilizing the services of a consumer credit counseling agency.

But then again, minor credit damage is probably preferable to the financial devastation that could come about if your financial house of cards comes tumbling down.

In addition, these services usually offer free or low-cost debt counseling services that can keep you from making the same mistakes that got you into this situation in the first place. You could chalk up the minor credit score damage as the cost of a priceless financial education.

WHO'S YOUR DADDY? - I normally frown upon borrowing money from family or friends, but if you have a relative that has offered to help you out, you might want to consider taking them up on it.

If you do, be smart about it. Don't borrow more than you can afford to repay, have a written agreement - and stick to it. Don't take advantage of the generosity of the family member or friend.

Treat this obligation issue like you would any other credit obligation. A hit on your credit report will stick around for seven to 10 years, but potential damage to a relationship can last longer. If you're mindful of the dangers, your relationship will stay on firm footing.

RETIREMENT ACCOUNT - While it can be expensive to do so, if it's only a limited amount of money and you eliminate the accounts you pay off with the proceeds, this could be a smart financial move, regardless of the fact that you'll probably incur a tax penalty. Because this is your retirement, this option should be used as a last resort.

See? It is possible to consolidate debt loans without using your home as an ATM machine. Do you have any creative ideas for consolidating debt? What are they?