Debt

Few experiences are more annoying — or anxiety-inducing — than debt collector calls. But you don’t have to become accustomed to frequent calls. There’s a legal way to make them stop (and move forward without continued interruption).  You Have a Right to Say No The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) protects your right to […]

Ever gotten a weird collection call? You’re not alone — and you have a right to protect yourself against suspicious businesses. That’s when you need to lean on the power of a validation letter. It’s a simple, direct way to say: “Show me the details.” Here’s what you need to know about debt validation, what […]

When you’re feeling overwhelmed by debt, it’s easy to fantasize about an escape route. And while some will offer a path promising exactly that, acting without thinking can actually make things worse. Let’s talk about what to avoid when you’re under pressure. If you’re in crisis mode, here’s how to steer clear of the mistakes […]

Zombies don’t just lurch across the silver screen — they can stumble into your financial life too.  “Zombie debt” is a debt that pops back up long after you’d forgotten about it. These undead debts often re-emerge after being sold to collectors who hope you’ll pay it without asking questions. But if the debt is […]

This guide walks you through what to do before, during and after a collector call.

Debt has a tricky way of shadowing you for a long time: On your credit report, in your inbox and — to use the parlance of our times — rent-free in your head. Even after you stop paying, the trauma of debt can impact how you think of money going forward. But what can you […]

There have never been more opportunities to start a side hustle — but ask any gig worker, and they’ll tell you that not all jobs are created equal. Some can be a massive energy drain, while others feel like a natural extension of what you already do. When you’re trying to pay off debt, picking […]

When you’re trying to get out of debt, bringing in more income can be a game-changer — so long as that money actually goes towards your debt. There’s a strategy to making the most of your extra income as you pay down debt. This article isn’t a list of side hustles: It’s a guide to […]

Getting debt free can take a lot of time and determination — but what if you could get there sooner than you think? Putting a little extra toward your monthly payment can cut months or even years off your timeline. But what stops most people from doing it? Not seeing the bigger picture.  That’s what […]

You worked overtime. You sold a few things online. Maybe you picked up a side hustle. And then the money disappeared. It happens more than you’d think. When you’re busy, tired or just trying to keep up with life, extra income can quietly slide into everyday spending. The good news? A few small habits can […]