A young Latino immigrant in the United States, who has gained popularity on TikTok for his advice and personal stories, is making waves with a video offering a vital "life tip" for newcomers to the U.S.: steer clear of unnecessary debt.
In the video, Andrés emphasizes that one of the biggest pitfalls for newcomers is quickly accumulating debt through credit cards, car loans, or non-essential expenses. He advises, "Here, credit life, financing, capitalism works way too easily... if you don't need to do it, then don't." His video, shared under the username @andresal3, sparked a flurry of reactions ranging from applause to discussions about debt management.
Mixed Reactions and Personal Stories
Some users shared their own experiences with debt in the U.S., with comments like "Here's a tip: always get health insurance. I had an accident, and the hospital bill was $60,000, but thanks to insurance, I only owed $1,800." Others, such as George Cedeño, argued that not all debt is detrimental, suggesting that when managed wisely, debt can be a tool for achieving financial success: "It's always better to use the bank's money, not yours."
There were also those who wholeheartedly agreed with Andrés, sharing their personal stories about avoiding unnecessary debt. Many highlighted the importance of having clear priorities and maintaining financial health. The discussion extended into broader financial success strategies in the U.S., with some users emphasizing that saving money and avoiding extravagant spending could be key to advancement.
Debate on the Role of Credit
While not everyone agreed with Andrés's stance on completely avoiding debt—such as Julio Alfonso868, who emphasized the importance of credit for buying a house or investing in a business—many concurred that incurring debt for non-essential items can lead to a dead end.
Andrés wrapped up his video with a powerful reflection: "The best advice is if you don't need to go into debt for something, don't. Save up and buy what you really need." His message seems to have ignited a genuine debate among those who see debt as a tool and those who prefer to avoid it to live peacefully in a country where credit is so easily accessible.