New Budget

I have updated my side bars and have become both depressed and hopeful at the state of my financial affairs. Repairing my car ended up costing my $1536 which left me with only $500 in savings. I am trying to decide if I want to put that money back into my savings account or put the money toward paying down one of my credit cards. Now that I know my credit score has improved to the point that a bank was willing to give me a car loan (I was approved, but I turned it down) I am now obsessed with the prospect of paying off my credit cards.

I would love to have them paid off by this time next year, but I know that would be next to impossible. I am now willing to make the necessary sacrifices to get this monkey off my back. My goal is to buy a new car by December of next year.

Here is my new budget.

Monthly Income - $2000

Sallie Mae - $600
Direct Loan - $200
Electric - $200
Cable/Phone/Internet - $170
Cell - $100
Master Card - $100
Amex - $150
Visa #1 - $140
Visa #2 - $90
Snowball Credit Card Payment - $200
Savings - $50

I can't believe that I am throwing $680 a month on credit card payments.

My first goal is to pay off my Amex, it has the highest interest rate. I called them and asked for a lower interest rate, they told me they could not lower the rate on past purchases but could give me 7% on new purchases. I am tempted to do a balance transfer but I don't want another inquiry on my credit report.