Was Dave Ramsey ever in debt?

Asked by: Theresia Marvin  |  Last update: May 8, 2026
Score: 4.7/5 (7 votes)

By 1986, Ramsey had amassed a portfolio worth over $4 million. However, when the Competitive Equality Banking Act of 1987 took effect, several banks changed ownership and called his $1.2 million in loans and lines of credit because he was over-leveraged. Ramsey was unable to pay and filed for bankruptcy in 1988.

Did Dave Ramsey have debt?

Dave's “wealth” was nothing but a house of cards built on debt. He had borrowed up to his eyeballs, and once the banks started calling his loans, he had 90 days to repay millions of dollars.

Does Dave Ramsey have credit cards?

Ramsey has long spoken out against credit cards, and he confirmed on the show that he hasn't changed his stance. “I still don't have them,” he said.

Does Dave Ramsey own 600 million in real estate?

Dave Ramsey isn't just any financial guru – he's a powerhouse who reportedly owns $600 million in real estate, all bought in cash. Known for his unfiltered advice to callers, he usually sticks to helping others get their finances straight.

Where does Dave Ramsey put his money?

Much of Ramsey's wealth is concentrated in his financial advisory business, Ramsey Solutions. An estimate by Ramsey suggests the company brings in about $300 million in annual revenue. The popular financial advisor hasn't shared the exact amount of wealth he's invested in his businesses.

Confronting Dave Ramsey on "good" debt

20 related questions found

How did Dave Ramsey lose his fortune?

In 1988, personal finance author and radio host Dave Ramsey, at 28 years of age, lost the $4 million he was worth in real estate when banks began aggressively asking for loans to be paid back. He was forced to file for bankruptcy.

How much does Dave Ramsey say to have in savings?

How Much You Should Have in Your Emergency Savings. Here's a Dave Ramsey principle we agree with: If you make less than $20,000 per year, aim to have at least $500 in emergency savings. If you make more than $20,000, then aim for at least $1,000.

Is Dave Ramsey a Democrat or Republican?

Ramsey has publicly stated he would vote for Republican Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential election, but also plainly said that people should vote for which candidate best aligns with their political values.

Do most millionaires pay off their house?

In fact, the average millionaire pays off their house in just 10.2 years. But even though you're dead set on ditching your mortgage ahead of schedule, you probably have one major question on your mind: How do I pay off my mortgage faster?

Who is the richest real estate investor in the US?

The Top 10 Real Estate Titans
  • Donald Bren – Net worth: $18 billion | Residence: Newport Beach, California. ...
  • Stephen Ross – Net worth: $10.1 billion | Residence: New York, New York. ...
  • Leonard Stern – Net worth: $8.1 billion | Residence: New York, New York.

Does Dave Ramsey have a 0 credit score?

The anti-debt crusader, who has an estimated net worth of at least $200 million, calls FICO scores the “I love debt scores.” He's proud of the fact that he doesn't have a credit score. Ramsey has inspired countless people to pay down debt — and we love that.

Is David Ramsey in a wheelchair in real life?

So, not surprisingly, he also liked to travel, both in the United States and across the world. For such an outgoing individual as David, it was a drastic change when he sustained a severe brain injury in 2015. He had to spend his remaining nine years in a wheelchair, unable to walk and almost unable to talk or write.

What kind of car does Dave Ramsey drive?

Dave Ramsey BSMM. I daily drive a Jaguar XJ. It's a 2016. Paid $22k for it in June.

Is Dave Ramsey against credit?

One of Dave Ramsey's most controversial opinions is his stance on credit usage. He advises against using credit and argues that credit scores are not a true measure of financial health. Instead, he describes them as how well you “play kissy-face with the bank.” According to Ramsey, credit scores simply do not matter.

What do 90% of millionaires do?

It has become especially popular because it can potentially be a gateway to millionaire status. The famed wealthy entrepreneur Andrew Carnegie famously said more than a century ago, “Ninety percent of all millionaires become so through owning real estate.

Does Dave Ramsey recommend paying off a mortgage?

Dave Ramsey, the renowned financial guru, has long been a proponent of financial discipline and savvy money management. This can include paying off your mortgage early, but only under specific financial circumstances.

What percent of Americans have no mortgage?

Not only is 96% of mortgage debt in the U.S. fixed rate, but 38.5% of homeowners don't have a mortgage at all.

Is Suze Orman a Republican?

In a 2008 interview with Larry King, she said she favors the policies of the Democratic Party and Barack Obama, especially regarding people in same-sex relationships.

What is the difference between Dave Ramsey and Suze Orman?

Dave Ramsey, a well-known financial personality and radio host, advises his listeners to withdraw 8%. Suze Orman, a financial expert and best-selling author, recommends withdrawing less than 4% if you want to retire in your 60's.

What is the 50/30/20 rule?

Those will become part of your budget. The 50-30-20 rule recommends putting 50% of your money toward needs, 30% toward wants, and 20% toward savings. The savings category also includes money you will need to realize your future goals. Let's take a closer look at each category.

What is the rule of 55 Dave Ramsey?

That's how much you should have in your bridge account so you can live comfortably until you're able to access your retirement accounts without penalty. For example, let's say you want to retire early at age 55. That means you need to have enough money in your bridge account to last about 4 1/2 years.

Is $20,000 a good savings?

Is $20,000 a Good Amount of Savings? Having $20,000 in a savings account is a good starting point if you want to create a sizable emergency fund. When the occasional rainy day comes along, you'll be financially prepared for it. Of course, $20,000 may only go so far if you find yourself in an extreme situation.