Dept Management
Key takeaways To pay off debt, you need to know how much you owe, how much you’re spending and where you can cut costs. The debt avalanche and snowball methods are popular debt repayment strategies. A debt consolidation loan can combine your debts into one loan with one interest rate…
Key takeaways It may be difficult to obtain a new loan after you enter a debt management plan, especially if you have recently started the plan. Many creditors report the details of a debt management plan to credit bureaus, which may impact your ability to qualify for a loan. Because…
Images by Getty Images; Illustration by Bankrate When you’re working hard to build financial security, deciding to spend thousands of dollars on a vacation can feel complicated to say the least. You’ve been paying off debt and building a checking account buffer. Maybe even investing for the first time. But…
Key takeaways Car title loans are a convenient way to get fast cash if you own your vehicle outright. These loans are risky though, as they use your vehicle as collateral and come with steep borrowing costs. Consider an alternative, like a credit card, personal loan or payday alternative loan,…
Americans are more burdened by debt than ever before. According to Bankrate’s 2025 Credit Card Debt Report, 48 percent of credit cardholders report having a credit card balance — but credit cards aren’t the only concern. From payday loans to buy now, pay later (BNPL) apps, predatory financial services are…
The traditional mantra of financial advice seems to revolve around four core points: get a college degree, get a job, borrow little and save more. Within those categories you’ll find tips on investing and budgeting, and even complex guidance on how to diversify your investments and expand your credit mix…
Images by Getty Images; Illustration by Austin Courregé/Bankrate The process of debt repayment isn’t always a smooth one. While you probably hope you don’t hit any snags as you pay your balance, a lack of experience or unexpected life events can seem like roadblocks. These factors may prevent you from…
Life happens. Your car breaks down. Prices go up. The latest layoffs come, and you find yourself out of a job. Facing financial difficulties can be stressful. Whether you’re going through tough economic times or facing other roadblocks while paying off debt, a financial setback can make you feel like…
“Renting is throwing money away.” Has anyone ever told you this? Well, I’m here to say: It’s bad financial advice. My husband and I have owned four different homes in three cities since 2010. If I wanted to, I could buy a house in cash today. But for the last…
Key takeaways A 609 dispute letter is a formal way to request more information about the accounts on your credit report. Sending a 609 dispute letter may help you remove errors from your credit report. Legitimate accounts should stay on your credit report even if you send a dispute letter.…
