Digging out of debt

Couples show there are many ways — some easy, others not — to get back on track.

The Great Recession is officially over, but for a huge number of Americans, serious debt lives on.

U.S. households owe a combined $11.5 trillion on credit cards, car loans, mortgages and other consumer debt, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

In households across the country, big debt is causing sleepless nights, troubled relationships and uncertain futures. The good news: There are ways out. And you don't have to file for bankruptcy.

Here's how four Southern California households took control of their finances and found more happiness with less debt. Read More