If you're trying to pay off debt, don't overlook the simple but clever strategies that will help expedite the process. Getty Images/iStockphoto

Struggling with debt is more common than many people realize, especially in today's economic landscape. The total amount of credit card debt nationwide recently surpassed $1.21 trillion , with credit card balances alone averaging around $8,000 per borrower . For millions of borrowers, though, these aren't just numbers. They're major sources of financial stress that impact daily decisions, from what groceries to buy to whether it's possible to save for retirement .

Your debt issues don't have to feel like an endless burden, though, whether you're dealing with a high-rate credit card balance or overwhelming personal loan debt. While

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