Which of the following is a classic warning sign of debt issues?

Shuffling payments between bills is a classic warning sign of debt issues because it indicates that an individual is struggling to keep up with their financial obligations. This behavior often arises when a person does not have sufficient cash flow to meet all of their required payments and resorts to temporarily moving funds from one account to another or prioritizing certain bills over others. This situation can lead to missed payments, increased fees, and a further exacerbation of financial distress.

In contrast, saving money for retirement and making extra payments on loans typically reflect positive financial behaviors. These actions suggest that an individual is managing their finances well, planning for the future, and has the capacity to pay down debt efficiently. Consistently engaging in budgeting also reflects proactive financial management, as it demonstrates a thorough understanding of one’s income and expenses, and the ability to live within one's means. Together, these behaviors are indicators of financial stability rather than distress.