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Debt Management

Articles filed under Debt Management.

What’s the Difference Between Debt Consolidation and Debt Settlement?

What’s the Difference Between Debt Consolidation and Debt Settlement?

If you’re struggling with debt, you’re not alone. Total household debt shot up to $17.80 trillion as of the second quarter of 2024. So how do you deal with overwhelming debt? We’ll compare two of the most common strategies: debt consolidation vs. debt settlement. Understanding the steps, pros and cons of each can help you...

Apr 18, 2026

7 Questions to Ask Before You Stop Paying Your Student Loans in Forbearance

7 Questions to Ask Before You Stop Paying Your Student Loans in Forbearance

[call_out_box id=3] The possibility of student loan forgiveness is no longer in question. On Aug. 24, 2022, the Biden administration forgave $10,000 of student debt for all borrowers who make less than $125,000 per year ($250,000 per household), while forgiving $20,000 for borrowers who previously received the Pell Grant. That news grabbed the most headlines,...

Apr 18, 2026

These Holiday Mocktails Are Overflowing with Flavor, Without the Alcohol

These Holiday Mocktails Are Overflowing with Flavor, Without the Alcohol

New Year’s Eve is a major holiday for alcohol purchases, which can definitely add up. Bypass the booze and try these four mocktails instead.

Apr 4, 2026

Want to Pay Off Your Home Early? One Extra Payment a Year Can Shave Off Years

Want to Pay Off Your Home Early? One Extra Payment a Year Can Shave Off Years

Thirty years is a long time. If you’re chipping away at a mortgage each month, it can feel even longer.  But what if you could eliminate that financial ball and chain by paying off your mortgage early? The truth is, if you can scrape together the equivalent of one extra payment to put toward your...

Apr 18, 2026

Boredom Be Gone: 114 Free Summer Activities to Keep Everyone Busy

Boredom Be Gone: 114 Free Summer Activities to Keep Everyone Busy

Whether you’d rather be outside or enjoy the AC, we’ve got ideas for you. Here are 100 free summer activities for kids of all ages, from the young to the young-at-heart.

Apr 18, 2026

Worried About Layoffs? 7 Steps to Stay Ready and Financially Steady

Worried About Layoffs? 7 Steps to Stay Ready and Financially Steady

There are ways to prepare for a job loss that can help you better survive unemployment — and find new work. Here’s what to do when you’re laid off.

Apr 18, 2026

What You Should Know About U.S. Savings Bonds

What You Should Know About U.S. Savings Bonds

Saving money can feel uncertain—but savings bonds promise something different: patience rewarded with growth. Backed by the U.S. Treasury, they’ve earned the trust of generations. Want to know why they’re still a go-to for cautious investors? Here's what you should know about U.S. savings bonds. Government-Backed Security August de Richelieu/Pexels Lending your money to the...

Apr 18, 2026

15 Money Habits That Quietly Hold Women Back

15 Money Habits That Quietly Hold Women Back

Money stress doesn’t always come from major mistakes. Sometimes, it’s baked into routines that seem harmless. Many women plan well and still feel behind, which can be frustrating and confusing. But small shifts make a difference. This list breaks down 15 subtle habits that quietly interfere with financial progress—and how to start loosening their grip....

Apr 4, 2026

These 5 Factors Are What Actually Matters When It Comes to Your Credit

These 5 Factors Are What Actually Matters When It Comes to Your Credit

We break down the five credit factors that determine your score and how you can improve each one.

Apr 18, 2026

From the Register to the Warehouse: 10 of the Best-Paying Retail Positions

From the Register to the Warehouse: 10 of the Best-Paying Retail Positions

Stuck working in retail? Make the most of your hours behind a cash register or at the mall by choosing one of these jobs with high hourly wages. Here are the best-paying retail jobs.

Apr 4, 2026

This is Why a 400% Interest Payday Loan Makes Sense for So Many Americans

This is Why a 400% Interest Payday Loan Makes Sense for So Many Americans

You’ve probably heard about the dangers of payday loans, but what happens when they’re your only option in a financial emergency?

Apr 18, 2026

What Is Debt?

What Is Debt?

The word “debt” has a way of making people feel uneasy. It brings to mind late payment notices, collection calls and maxed-out credit cards. But at its core, debt is simply money you’ve borrowed that you’ve agreed to pay back — often with interest. And here’s the thing: almost everyone has some form of debt....

Apr 18, 2026