Markets· August 17, 2026 at 01:16 p.m.
Struggling Parents Weigh Cost of Music Lessons Against Debt Repayment
Key takeaways
- Family spends nearly $500 a month on music lessons
- Co-hosts suggest pausing lessons if they delay debt payoff by more than three months
- Families typically pay off non-mortgage debt within 18 to 24 months
A family in debt is grappling with whether to continue paying for their children's music lessons, which cost nearly $500 a month, or accelerate debt repayment. The debate was featured on 'The Ramsey Show'.
According to the discussion, the family spent approximately $5,800 on music lessons last year. Co-host Rachel Cruze suggested that if the lessons delay debt payoff by more than three months, they should be temporarily suspended and resumed once the family is debt-free.
Co-host Jade Warshaw agreed, adding that meaningful expenses can be postponed during a difficult financial period. However, she noted that essentials like counseling or affordable date nights might still be maintained.
Cruze also emphasized that families typically pay off non-mortgage debt within 18 to 24 months, making it easier for them to make sacrifices for that duration.
