BISMARCK, ND (KXNET) — Going into debt is something nobody wants to do, but the rising cost of living and nature of massive purchases tend to lead to taking on more than they would like. This can result in raised interest rates, a lower credit score, and in dire cases, even property repossession and foreclosure. As one might expect, those who find themselves in debt are often willing to do anything to get out of this situation — and as a new study shows, this includes putting in extra hours at the office. In a recent survey, researchers with CardRates.com polled 3,000 credit card users on the lengths they would go to if it meant removing their debt entirely. Through the results, it was discovered that North Dakotans would be willing to work an extra six hours and 25 minutes every week to pay off their credit card fees. While North Dakota's numbers are considered in line with the national average (also six hours and 25 minutes), it is still a far cry from how determined other states are to eliminate their debt. South Dakotans, in particular, expressed a willingness to work 13 extra hours every week. This idea is taken even further when one considers that an overwhelming 91% of respondents across the nation said they would be willing to work 60 hours every week for a year to eliminate all of their debt at the end. On the opposite end of the spectrum, residents of Vermont stated they would only be willing to work an additional two hours and 40 minutes, suggesting a focus on quality of life over financial concerns. North Dakotans look to international schooling systems However, it should be noted that free hours are not the only thing that American citizens would be willing to sacrifice. During the second part of the survey, employees were questioned on how they would change their lifestyle to cut down on potential debt concerns. On the topic, 35% of the polled individuals stated that they would forego personal luxuries to save money, while another 24% declared their intention to skip or shorten vacations. Another 22% said they would be willing to cut back on dining out or recreational activities, and 18% were even prepared to dip into their emergency savings if it meant getting out of debt. This concept of sacrifice also extends to where one lives, and 64% of survey respondents added they would move back in with parents or other family members to clear their credit card charges. While multiple strategies can be put in place to help manage debt, there is no universal solution... but many already have some sort of plan to deal with it. Of the survey's respondents, 34% favor debt consolidation (which combines multiple payments into one) as the best way to handle their debt, while another 24% would instead utilize the Snowball Method (in which small debts are paid off first to build momentum). A further 23% would focus on paying off the debts with the highest interest rates, and a more desperate 9% would even consider declaring bankruptcy as a last resort. “The results of this poll are heartening,” said CardRates Finance Expert Erica Sandberg. “Clearly most people want to escape credit card debt and are willing - at least on paper - to take action. It also shows just how tough it is to be saddled with pressing financial obligations. Working extra hours every day is serious, as it removes time spent on family and leisure. Giving up the things that make life pleasurable takes dedication, too, especially in the long-term.” To view the full study — including a detailed infographic showing the average amount of 'debt dedication' in each state — visit this page on Cardrates' website. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW