Consolidation can ___________ by ____________.

Consolidation can lower monthly payments by extending your payment term. When you consolidate debts, you essentially combine multiple debts into a single loan, which can lead to a longer repayment period. By spreading the total amount owed over a more extended timeframe, the new monthly payments become smaller and more manageable for the borrower. This is a common strategy used to ease immediate financial pressure, making it easier for individuals to handle their monthly expenses.

In contrast, short payment terms often result in higher monthly payments, which can strain a borrower’s finances. Therefore, extending the payment term through consolidation can provide significant relief by reducing the monthly financial burden, thereby improving cash flow. This aspect is particularly beneficial for borrowers who may be struggling to keep up with higher payments from multiple obligations.