How to Decide Between Debt and Investing – 12.30.25

HOW TO DECIDE BETWEEN DEBT AND INVESTING
FROM BALTIMORE WASHINGTON FINANCIAL ADVISORS


Lawrence M. Post | CPA, MST, CFP®, CIMA®

Senior Tax & Planning Advisor, BWFA

and
Tyler Kluge | CFP®, ChFEB℠, CPWA®, CDFA®, CEPS, 
Financial Planner, BWFA

About This Episode

Deciding whether to pay off debt or invest can feel overwhelming. Learn how to weigh your options and make choices that support long-term goals.

Full Description

One of the most common financial questions people face is whether they should focus on paying off debt or investing for the future. Both options can play an important role in a healthy financial plan, but the right answer is rarely the same for everyone.

In this episode of Healthy, Wealthy & Wise, the discussion explores how to evaluate the decision to pay down debt versus investing. Listeners will learn why interest rates, cash flow, and personal goals all matter when deciding where to direct their money.

The conversation explains that not all debt is created equal. High-interest consumer debt can place ongoing pressure on finances, while lower-interest debt may allow room for investing at the same time. This episode helps listeners understand how different types of debt fit into a broader financial strategy.

The episode also highlights the emotional side of this decision. Paying off debt can provide peace of mind, while investing supports long-term growth. Balancing these priorities often requires tradeoffs. Rather than viewing the choice as all or nothing, the discussion encourages a more flexible approach that considers both progress and stability.

Listeners will gain insight into how thoughtful planning can help avoid extremes. Making consistent, informed decisions over time often leads to better outcomes than reacting based on short-term emotions or headlines.

At BWFA, we help individuals and families align debt management and investing within a comprehensive plan. This episode offers guidance to help you make confident decisions that fit your unique financial situation.

To learn more about building a balanced financial plan, visit BWFA’s Financial Planning Services.