Client Exclusive: How We Helped Terri G. Restore Her Financial Peace of Mind

Today we’re thrilled to share the story of Terri, a retiree who is recovering from debt after a long distance move didn’t work out like she planned. 

Terri’s story reminds us that big life changes can have unintended financial consequences but with help and a little patience you can get back on the right track.

Debt Amount: $24,700
Started: January 2024
Monthly Savings: $382 (⏷ 47%)
*

Meet Terri: A Retiree Who Took on Debt After a Big Move

Terri is a retired city government worker from California. She had enjoyed a comfortable retirement with a paid-off home and car until a desire to be closer to her new grandchild led her to move to Arizona. Unfortunately, the move didn’t work out and led to unexpected financial strain.

How Terri Got Into Debt

After her move, Terri used the money from her home sale to help her daughter’s family with a down payment and other loans. 

When the living situation in Arizona didn’t work out like she hoped, Terri returned to California with no savings and “no plan.” Without a financial safety net, she had to rent. On top of that, her car died and a new car payment sent her tight budget over the edge.

“The $50,000 disappeared pretty fast because I helped my daughter with closing costs and I helped her pay off a loan she had so they’d have better credit and it basically disappeared and I did not take care of myself.”

Recognizing the Need for Help

Trying to manage her debt quickly became a big source of stress for Terri. She tried to get a debt consolidation loan but was denied. Soon she was finding it hard to afford basic necessities. 

“I really had a problem trying to buy food. It’s like ‘I have $8. What’s the best way to spend this at the grocery store?’” she shared. She recalls visiting food banks to cut down her grocery bill and crying a lot, all clear signs that she really needed help. 

Turning Things Around With Beyond Finance

Terri found Beyond Finance through an online ad and signed up immediately after her first call because it was affordable and offered her a solution that would restore her peace of mind. 

Terri “used to get stomach aches, have trouble sleeping or cry easily” over her finances but Beyond put a stop to that distress. Now she feels she is “taking the responsibility to pay these bills and doing it the right way.”

“I found Beyond and that was a great solution to my problems. I didn’t have to worry about anything.

Terri Saved 47% on Her Eligible Monthly Payments

Enrolling with Beyond Finance gave Terri immediate relief by lowering her eligible monthly payments from approximately $800 to $418. 

“Beyond worked out a payment of $418 a month for me, which is very, very affordable. My budget’s in a better situation.” 

Staying on Track with Extra Support From Beyond Finance

Alongside the financial relief, Terri found great emotional support through Beyond’s client support offerings like financial wellness sessions.

The online support group has helped Terri stay motivated and she is grateful for the support from fellow clients and Beyond’s financial therapists Dr. Erika Rasure and Nathan Astle

“Nathan Astle always says ‘don’t let them take your peace.’ You’ve got to keep your peace and be confident and keep coming to the sessions because that’s amazing stuff. I go three times a week!”

Terri’s Message to Others: “Call Beyond Finance”

Terri urges anyone struggling with debt to call Beyond Finance, explain their situation and see what they can do for you.

Sixteen months into the program Terri is “coasting the rest of the way” and feels confident she will be debt-free within three years. Looking ahead she plans to visit her grandkids in Arizona and enjoy her retirement.

“I would just say call Beyond Finance, tell them your situation. They will work with you and figure out what you can do, what you can afford.”

Terri G. is a real client compensated for sharing a real experience. Individual results may vary. 

*Terri saved 47% on his eligible monthly payments. Saving amounts are calculated based on self reported payments or tradeline minimums minus program payment.

Terri started her program in January 2024, and her program is estimated to take 36 months. These quotes are from April 2025.