Credit / Debt Management: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
First Credit Card
Getting a credit card for the first time is a big step. Here's how to get your first credit card.
Getting a credit card for the first time is a big step. Here's how to get your first credit card.
Rent With Bad Credit
Renting with bad credit can be easy or hard depending on where you're looking. Find out how to get around the credit check and rent an apartment even with bad credit.
Renting with bad credit can be easy or hard depending on where you're looking. Find out how to get around the credit check and rent an apartment even with bad credit.
50 Statute of Limitations
Each state has its own statute of limitations on debt - the amount of time you can be sued for a debt.
Each state has its own statute of limitations on debt - the amount of time you can be sued for a debt.
Statute of Limitations
The statute of limitations on a debt keeps debt collectors from winning a lawsuit. The limit varies by state and depends on the account's last date of activity.
The statute of limitations on a debt keeps debt collectors from winning a lawsuit. The limit varies by state and depends on the account's last date of activity.
Repair Charge-Off
A credit card charge-offs is one of the worst things that can happen to your credit. When you're working on credit repair, taking care of charged-off accounts helps improve your credit score.
A credit card charge-offs is one of the worst things that can happen to your credit. When you're working on credit repair, taking care of charged-off accounts helps improve your credit score.
Rebuild Bad Credit
After repairing bad credit, you need to rebuild it, prove to your creditors that you can pay your bills on time. Learn what it takes to rebuild bad credit and improve your credit score.
After repairing bad credit, you need to rebuild it, prove to your creditors that you can pay your bills on time. Learn what it takes to rebuild bad credit and improve your credit score.
Sample Cease and Desist
To stop debt collection calls, you must send a cease and desist letter. Use this cease and desist letter template to stop debt collection calls.
To stop debt collection calls, you must send a cease and desist letter. Use this cease and desist letter template to stop debt collection calls.
Pay for Delete Letter
Use this sample pay for delete letter to negotiate removal of negative collection accounts and charge-offs from your credit report. Customize the letter to fit your situation.
Use this sample pay for delete letter to negotiate removal of negative collection accounts and charge-offs from your credit report. Customize the letter to fit your situation.
Remove Collection
Technically, debt collections are supposed to stay on your credit report for seven years. But, there are a few ways to remove debt collections before that time comes.
Technically, debt collections are supposed to stay on your credit report for seven years. But, there are a few ways to remove debt collections before that time comes.
Pay Off Collection
Before you pay off a collection account, first negotiate with the debt collector to have your credit report updated to something that works in your favor. As you work with debt collectors to negotiate a payment, keep in mind what you and the collector want from the deal.
Before you pay off a collection account, first negotiate with the debt collector to have your credit report updated to something that works in your favor. As you work with debt collectors to negotiate a payment, keep in mind what you and the collector want from the deal.
Closing Credit Cards
Closing a credit card might seem like a solution for a problem with your creditor or the card itself. But closing the wrong card could hurt your credit score.
Closing a credit card might seem like a solution for a problem with your creditor or the card itself. But closing the wrong card could hurt your credit score.
Hurt Credit Score
Any of these things will hurt your credit score.
Any of these things will hurt your credit score.
10 Things To Improve Credit
Bad credit isn't permanent. There are things you can do right now to improve your credit score. Get tips to raise your credit score from bad to good.
Bad credit isn't permanent. There are things you can do right now to improve your credit score. Get tips to raise your credit score from bad to good.
Credit Karma.com
I've been using Credit Karma for years to get my free credit score. I've never given my credit card number and never paid for the free credit score. Learn how you can get yours.
I've been using Credit Karma for years to get my free credit score. I've never given my credit card number and never paid for the free credit score. Learn how you can get yours.
Credit Repair
Credit repair isn't a secret skill or process only available to credit repair companies. You have the power and the right to repair your own credit.
Credit repair isn't a secret skill or process only available to credit repair companies. You have the power and the right to repair your own credit.
Credit Report Dispute
You can remove credit report errors by submitting a a credit report dispute to the credit bureaus. Find out how to submit a credit report dispute to clean up your credit report.
You can remove credit report errors by submitting a a credit report dispute to the credit bureaus. Find out how to submit a credit report dispute to clean up your credit report.
How To Get Credit
How to apply for credit for the first time. The steps you should take and what to watch out for.
How to apply for credit for the first time. The steps you should take and what to watch out for.
Stop Collection Calls
Debt collection calls are usually unwanted and can border harrassment. The FDCPA, a federal law, give you rights that help you stop debt collector calls.
Debt collection calls are usually unwanted and can border harrassment. The FDCPA, a federal law, give you rights that help you stop debt collector calls.
Charge-Off Explained
: What Is A Charge-Off : Many people mistakenly think when a debt has been charged-off that it's been
: What Is A Charge-Off : Many people mistakenly think when a debt has been charged-off that it's been
Do's And Don'ts
Guidelines for using credit cards the right way. Learn the way to use - and not to use - your credit card.
Guidelines for using credit cards the right way. Learn the way to use - and not to use - your credit card.
Credit One Bank Visa Platinum Card
The Credit One Bank Visa Platinum Card charges high fees and high interest rates. It is aimed at people with poor credit or limited credit history.
The Credit One Bank Visa Platinum Card charges high fees and high interest rates. It is aimed at people with poor credit or limited credit history.
Student Loan Forgiveness
Student loans are a heavy burden for many college graduates. There are many student loan forgiveness programs that might eliminate some or all of your student loan debt.
Student loans are a heavy burden for many college graduates. There are many student loan forgiveness programs that might eliminate some or all of your student loan debt.
Open-Ended Account Definition
an open-ended account is an account that has a varying, revolving balance
an open-ended account is an account that has a varying, revolving balance
Pay Old Collection
When a debt collector contacts you to pay an old collection, you might wonder if it's worth paying, especially if the debt is years or decades old.
When a debt collector contacts you to pay an old collection, you might wonder if it's worth paying, especially if the debt is years or decades old.
Build Good Credit
Your credit history affects everything from buying a home to financing your education and even getting a job. Learn how to build a good credit history starting with your first credit card.
Your credit history affects everything from buying a home to financing your education and even getting a job. Learn how to build a good credit history starting with your first credit card.
Deal With Collectors
Debt collectors don't always follow the rules. Here's some information that will help you deal, or not deal, with collection agencies.
Debt collectors don't always follow the rules. Here's some information that will help you deal, or not deal, with collection agencies.
Written Contract Definition
a written contract is an agreement made on a printed document that has been signed by both the lender and the borrower
a written contract is an agreement made on a printed document that has been signed by both the lender and the borrower
Debt Validation
Debt validation is your right to have the debt collectors prove you owe what they say you owe. If the collector can't validate the debt, they can't collect from you.
Debt validation is your right to have the debt collectors prove you owe what they say you owe. If the collector can't validate the debt, they can't collect from you.
Credit Reporting Time Limit
How long does negative information stay on my credit report? The credit reporting time limit keeps negative information on your credit report for a minimum of seven years, with some exceptions.
How long does negative information stay on my credit report? The credit reporting time limit keeps negative information on your credit report for a minimum of seven years, with some exceptions.
FDCPA Violations
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, FDCPA, dictates how debt collectors can act when collecting a debt from you. Find out what debt collectors can and cannot do.
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, FDCPA, dictates how debt collectors can act when collecting a debt from you. Find out what debt collectors can and cannot do.
Denied Credit Card Application
There are many possible reasons a credit card application could be denied. Your credit card application could be denied because of your credit or because of something that's not even on your credit report. Here are some possible explanations for your credit card application being denied.
There are many possible reasons a credit card application could be denied. Your credit card application could be denied because of your credit or because of something that's not even on your credit report. Here are some possible explanations for your credit card application being denied.
Late Payments
Missing credit card payments might not seem like a big deal to you, but your creditors don't feel the
Missing credit card payments might not seem like a big deal to you, but your creditors don't feel the
Get a Credit Card With Bad Credit
If you're suffering with bad credit, you're not alone. Many people with bad credit have a hard time finding a credit card. Here's how you can get a credit card even if you have bad credit.
If you're suffering with bad credit, you're not alone. Many people with bad credit have a hard time finding a credit card. Here's how you can get a credit card even if you have bad credit.
Statute of Limitations FAQ
Answers to some of the most important questions about the statute of limitations on debt and how long certain debts can be collected.
Answers to some of the most important questions about the statute of limitations on debt and how long certain debts can be collected.
Secured Credit Card
Secured credit cards are good for establishing or re-establishing credit. Before you apply for a secured card, make sure to get the important facts about the card.
Secured credit cards are good for establishing or re-establishing credit. Before you apply for a secured card, make sure to get the important facts about the card.
Debt To Income Ratio
Your debt to income ratio indicates your level of debt. Learn how to calculate and analyze your debt to income ratio.
Your debt to income ratio indicates your level of debt. Learn how to calculate and analyze your debt to income ratio.
Best Student Credit Cards for Students
The best student credit cards come from Wells Fargo, Capital One, Discover, U.S. Bank, Bank of America and Citigroup. These best student credit cards carry no annual fees, low APRs, and some have good rewards programs.
The best student credit cards come from Wells Fargo, Capital One, Discover, U.S. Bank, Bank of America and Citigroup. These best student credit cards carry no annual fees, low APRs, and some have good rewards programs.
Best Secured Credit Cards
The best secured credit cards has low fees and interest rates. The ones that made our best list come from Navy Federal Credit Union, Orchard Bank and Wells Fargo.
The best secured credit cards has low fees and interest rates. The ones that made our best list come from Navy Federal Credit Union, Orchard Bank and Wells Fargo.
How Many Credit Cards
You may sift through your stack of credit cards and wonder if you have too many. Or, if you're considering
You may sift through your stack of credit cards and wonder if you have too many. Or, if you're considering
Credit Card Types
Don't be confused by all the different credit cards. Get familiar with the different types of credit cards to choose the right one for you.
Don't be confused by all the different credit cards. Get familiar with the different types of credit cards to choose the right one for you.
Closed Cards and Credit Score
Before you call your credit card company, learn what will happen to your credit score if you close the card.
Before you call your credit card company, learn what will happen to your credit score if you close the card.
Rebuild With Secure Credit
If you have bad credit and find it hard to get approved for a credit card, learn how a secured credit card can help you re-establish your credit history.
If you have bad credit and find it hard to get approved for a credit card, learn how a secured credit card can help you re-establish your credit history.
Credit Score
Understanding your credit score calculation can help you use credit wisely. Find out what goes into calculating your credit score.
Understanding your credit score calculation can help you use credit wisely. Find out what goes into calculating your credit score.
Credit Card Payback
Stumped on how to pay back your credit card debt? Here are two methods that will work.
Stumped on how to pay back your credit card debt? Here are two methods that will work.
Reporting Lost Credit Card
Missing credit cards should be reported as quickly as possible to reduce your liability. Find out what steps you should take when your credidt card has been lost or stolen.
Missing credit cards should be reported as quickly as possible to reduce your liability. Find out what steps you should take when your credidt card has been lost or stolen.
Marriage and Credit
Whether you're engaged, already married, or just thinking about marriage, you should know how marriage affects your credit and the credit of your partner.
Whether you're engaged, already married, or just thinking about marriage, you should know how marriage affects your credit and the credit of your partner.
Credit Beginnings
Here are some tips to get you started with your first credit card.
Here are some tips to get you started with your first credit card.
Things That Don't Hurt Credit
Making late credit card and loan payments will definitely hurt your credit score, but there are some late payments that will never see your credit report. Learn what things won't hurt your credit score.
Making late credit card and loan payments will definitely hurt your credit score, but there are some late payments that will never see your credit report. Learn what things won't hurt your credit score.
Inquiries & Credit Score
Not all credit report inquiries have an effect on your credit score. Learn the different inquiries and what they mean for your credit.
Not all credit report inquiries have an effect on your credit score. Learn the different inquiries and what they mean for your credit.
Promissory Note Definition
A promissory note is a written contract that includes a specific promise to pay.
A promissory note is a written contract that includes a specific promise to pay.
Debt Settlement
Even though debt settlement may promise to reduce your debt, they can't promise to keep your credit in tact at the same time. Find out how debt settlement works and why it may not be the best solution.
Even though debt settlement may promise to reduce your debt, they can't promise to keep your credit in tact at the same time. Find out how debt settlement works and why it may not be the best solution.
Bank of America Cash Rewards Visa Card
The Bank of America Cash Rewards Visa Card pays 1% cash back on purchases. Find out how you can earn a $50 bonus.
The Bank of America Cash Rewards Visa Card pays 1% cash back on purchases. Find out how you can earn a $50 bonus.
Credit Card Payoff Calculators
There are hundreds of credit card pay off calculators on the internet. Here is a list of the best.
There are hundreds of credit card pay off calculators on the internet. Here is a list of the best.
When Can Collectors Call
Debt collectors seem to call at the most inconvenient times, don't they? What times are debt collectors really allowed to call you?
Debt collectors seem to call at the most inconvenient times, don't they? What times are debt collectors really allowed to call you?
Wells Fargo Secured Card
The Wells Fargo Secured Card is for people who don’t have a credit history, have been turned down for credit card or are rebuilding their credit history.
The Wells Fargo Secured Card is for people who don’t have a credit history, have been turned down for credit card or are rebuilding their credit history.
Cash Advance
Taking out a cash advance on your credit card is risky, expensive, and carries the potential for debt. Find out the right way to take out and repay a credit card cash advance.
Taking out a cash advance on your credit card is risky, expensive, and carries the potential for debt. Find out the right way to take out and repay a credit card cash advance.
Sample SOL Letter
Debt collectors might continue to contact you after the statute of limitations has passed on a debt. However, you can stop them from calling by sending a letter. Be careful not to acknowledge ownership of the debt as that can restart the clock on the statute of limitations.
Debt collectors might continue to contact you after the statute of limitations has passed on a debt. However, you can stop them from calling by sending a letter. Be careful not to acknowledge ownership of the debt as that can restart the clock on the statute of limitations.
Credit Card Process
Get a better understanding of how the credit card billing process works from making purchases to making payments.
Get a better understanding of how the credit card billing process works from making purchases to making payments.
Money for Debt
Funding your debt plan might be hard if you depend on your current income. Here are some ways you can come up with extra money to get out of debt.
Funding your debt plan might be hard if you depend on your current income. Here are some ways you can come up with extra money to get out of debt.
Fix Bad Credit Report
The specific steps to credit repair depends on what's on your credit report. Here are some of the most common credit blemishes and information on fixing them.
The specific steps to credit repair depends on what's on your credit report. Here are some of the most common credit blemishes and information on fixing them.
Orchard Bank Secured MasterCa
The Orchard Bank Secured Credit Card by MasterCard is a good option for consumers with a bad credit history who need to re-establish their credit.
The Orchard Bank Secured Credit Card by MasterCard is a good option for consumers with a bad credit history who need to re-establish their credit.
Time-Barred Debts
Time-barred debts are those that are no longer collectible through the court because the statute of limitations on these debts has passed. Creditors and debt collectors can still try to collect time-barred debts.
Time-barred debts are those that are no longer collectible through the court because the statute of limitations on these debts has passed. Creditors and debt collectors can still try to collect time-barred debts.
What is a Collection?
How worried do you have to be about a call or letter from a debt collector or a debt collection on your credit report?
How worried do you have to be about a call or letter from a debt collector or a debt collection on your credit report?
Worst CR Entries
Certain things you never want to appear on your credit report because they damage your chances of getting applications approved. Find out six of the worst credit report entries.
Certain things you never want to appear on your credit report because they damage your chances of getting applications approved. Find out six of the worst credit report entries.
Sample Validation Letter
Debt validation requests should be made in writing. Here is a sample debt validation letter you can send to collectors.
Debt validation requests should be made in writing. Here is a sample debt validation letter you can send to collectors.
LifeLock Fight Identity Theft
LifeLock's identity theft protection service is an alternative to credit monitoring and costs $10 a month or $110 a year. Is it worth the money?
LifeLock's identity theft protection service is an alternative to credit monitoring and costs $10 a month or $110 a year. Is it worth the money?
Average Daily Balance
The average daily balance method is one of the ways your creditor might calculate your finance charge. Find out how the calculation works.
The average daily balance method is one of the ways your creditor might calculate your finance charge. Find out how the calculation works.
Do You Owe?
Even though the statute of limitations has expired on a debt, you are still legally responsible for paying the debt. However, the creditor or collector no longer has the liberty of using the court to force you to pay.
Even though the statute of limitations has expired on a debt, you are still legally responsible for paying the debt. However, the creditor or collector no longer has the liberty of using the court to force you to pay.
Overdraft and Credit Scor
Payment history is 35% of your credit score, but does that include bank overdrafts? Learn whether overdrafting your bank account will hurt your credit score.
Payment history is 35% of your credit score, but does that include bank overdrafts? Learn whether overdrafting your bank account will hurt your credit score.
Credit Report SOL
An account may still appear on your credit report even though the statute of limitations has expired for that debt.
An account may still appear on your credit report even though the statute of limitations has expired for that debt.
Wage Garnishment Limit
The Consumer Credit Protection Act puts a federal limit on the amount your wages can be garnished. That limit is the lower of two amounts.
The Consumer Credit Protection Act puts a federal limit on the amount your wages can be garnished. That limit is the lower of two amounts.
No Maxed-Out Credit Card
Maxing out your credit card happens when your credit balance is very near, at, or above your credit limit. Here's why a maxed-out credit card is such a bad thing.
Maxing out your credit card happens when your credit balance is very near, at, or above your credit limit. Here's why a maxed-out credit card is such a bad thing.
SOL Lawsuit
The statute of limitations limits the amount of time you can be sued for a debt, but it's up to you to prove the SOL has actually expired.
The statute of limitations limits the amount of time you can be sued for a debt, but it's up to you to prove the SOL has actually expired.
sampledispute
A sample credit report dispute letter you can use to dispute information from your credit report with the credit bureaus.
A sample credit report dispute letter you can use to dispute information from your credit report with the credit bureaus.
Types of Loans
There are many different types of loans. When you're shopping for a loan, it's important to know the types of loans that are out there.
There are many different types of loans. When you're shopping for a loan, it's important to know the types of loans that are out there.
Capital One Secured MasterCard Credit Card Review
The Capital One Secured MasterCard has a high annual fee and a high APR. You might choose the Capital One Secured MasterCard if you have bad credit or no credit that keeps you from getting a standard credit card
The Capital One Secured MasterCard has a high annual fee and a high APR. You might choose the Capital One Secured MasterCard if you have bad credit or no credit that keeps you from getting a standard credit card
Can't Make Payment
There may come a month when you don't have enough money to make your credit card minimum payment. Find out what you can do to maintain your credit score, interest rate, and relationship with your creditor.
There may come a month when you don't have enough money to make your credit card minimum payment. Find out what you can do to maintain your credit score, interest rate, and relationship with your creditor.
Goodwill Letter
You can use a goodwill letter in credit repair to request a creditor make a courtesy update to your credit report. Learn how to create your own goodwill letter.
You can use a goodwill letter in credit repair to request a creditor make a courtesy update to your credit report. Learn how to create your own goodwill letter.
Florida SOL
The statute of limitations on debt in Florida limits the amount of time a consumer can be sued for a debt.
The statute of limitations on debt in Florida limits the amount of time a consumer can be sued for a debt.
Dept Store/Gas Cards
Department store credit cards and gas credit cards are good for establishing credit. But, the terms and conditions make it hard to use these cards to your advantage. Find out how and how not to use department store and gas credit cards.
Department store credit cards and gas credit cards are good for establishing credit. But, the terms and conditions make it hard to use these cards to your advantage. Find out how and how not to use department store and gas credit cards.
Prepare Credit for Mortgage
The credit crisis has made it more difficult to get approved for a mortgage loan. So it’s more important than ever to prepare your credit for a mortgage application. Cleaning up your credit report and increasing your credit score will improve your chances of getting approved. If your credit’s already good, maintaining it will be key in locking in a low interest rate.
The credit crisis has made it more difficult to get approved for a mortgage loan. So it’s more important than ever to prepare your credit for a mortgage application. Cleaning up your credit report and increasing your credit score will improve your chances of getting approved. If your credit’s already good, maintaining it will be key in locking in a low interest rate.
Read Credit Report
Credit reports aren't very easy to understand. Use this sample credit report to help you learn how to read a credit report.
Credit reports aren't very easy to understand. Use this sample credit report to help you learn how to read a credit report.
Oral Agreement
an oral contract is an agreement that was made verbally
an oral contract is an agreement that was made verbally
Zombie Debt
If you've ever watched Night of the Living Dead or 28 Days Later , then you know about zombies. They're
If you've ever watched Night of the Living Dead or 28 Days Later , then you know about zombies. They're
Cancel FreeCreditReport.com
If you want to avoid credit card charges from FreeCreditReport.com, you have to cancel your account before the trial period ends.
If you want to avoid credit card charges from FreeCreditReport.com, you have to cancel your account before the trial period ends.
Prepaid Credit Card
Prepaid credit cards are simply Visa, MasterCard, or American Express branded gift cards that are loaded with money and used as credit cards where credit cards are accepted.
Prepaid credit cards are simply Visa, MasterCard, or American Express branded gift cards that are loaded with money and used as credit cards where credit cards are accepted.
Citi Secured MasterCard
The Citi Secured MasterCard is a secured credit card with a low interest rate, but a high annual fee.
The Citi Secured MasterCard is a secured credit card with a low interest rate, but a high annual fee.
FDCPA
Debt collectors aren't free to take whatever means necessary to collect a debt. In fact, they are governed by federal laws. Being aware of these laws helps protect you from the unscrupulous practices of certain debt collectors.
Debt collectors aren't free to take whatever means necessary to collect a debt. In fact, they are governed by federal laws. Being aware of these laws helps protect you from the unscrupulous practices of certain debt collectors.
Correctly Close Credit Card
Learn to close a credit card the right way, by contacting your credit card issuer over the phone and in writing. Follow the right steps to be sure your credit card account is closed completely.
Learn to close a credit card the right way, by contacting your credit card issuer over the phone and in writing. Follow the right steps to be sure your credit card account is closed completely.
Annual Fee
Not every credit card issuer charges an annual fee and some let you get the fee waived. Don't automatically walk away from a credit card with an annual fee - the cost may be worth it.
Not every credit card issuer charges an annual fee and some let you get the fee waived. Don't automatically walk away from a credit card with an annual fee - the cost may be worth it.
Bad Credit Side Effects
Since so many businesses now judge you based on your credit score, having bad credit can make life extremely difficult from getting a job to getting a place to live. Here are some of the most common side-effects of bad credit.
Since so many businesses now judge you based on your credit score, having bad credit can make life extremely difficult from getting a job to getting a place to live. Here are some of the most common side-effects of bad credit.
Respond to Denied Application
Having a credit card application denied is discouraging, to say the least. If your credit card application is denied, here are some things you can do to improve your chances at getting a new credit card.
Having a credit card application denied is discouraging, to say the least. If your credit card application is denied, here are some things you can do to improve your chances at getting a new credit card.
Debt to Income Ratio Calculator - Calculate Your Debt to Income Ratio
Use this free debt-to-income ratio calculator to tell whether you have too much debt.
Use this free debt-to-income ratio calculator to tell whether you have too much debt.
Debt Validation FAQ
Debt validation is how you get debt collectors to prove you owe them the debt. Get answers to common questions about how debt validation works.
Debt validation is how you get debt collectors to prove you owe them the debt. Get answers to common questions about how debt validation works.
Choosing Credit Cards
There are certain factors to consider in choosing a credit card. Get these key questions answered before you fill out the credit card application.
There are certain factors to consider in choosing a credit card. Get these key questions answered before you fill out the credit card application.
Worst Credit Cards
There are a lot of bad credit cards out there. Learn to recognize the features of the worst credit cards.
There are a lot of bad credit cards out there. Learn to recognize the features of the worst credit cards.
Credit Utilization
Credit utilization is the ratio of your credit card debt to credit limits. It has the second biggest factor influencing your FICO score.
Credit utilization is the ratio of your credit card debt to credit limits. It has the second biggest factor influencing your FICO score.
Which Collection Agency Owed
There are a few ways you can find out which collection agency you owe. If you can't find them, they'll eventually find you.
There are a few ways you can find out which collection agency you owe. If you can't find them, they'll eventually find you.
Good vs. Bad Debt
Did you know there was a such thing as good debt? There's a big difference between good debt and bad debt. How much of each are you carrying?
Did you know there was a such thing as good debt? There's a big difference between good debt and bad debt. How much of each are you carrying?
Garnished Wages
Wage garnishment is when your employer withholds part of your paycheck to satisfy a court order requiring you to repay a debt. The Consumer Credit Protection Act regulates wage garnishment and limits the amount you can be garnished.
Wage garnishment is when your employer withholds part of your paycheck to satisfy a court order requiring you to repay a debt. The Consumer Credit Protection Act regulates wage garnishment and limits the amount you can be garnished.
Too Much Debt?
Taking the time to determine whether or not you have too much debt can provide confirmation that you are doing things right or the realization that some financial changes are needed.
Taking the time to determine whether or not you have too much debt can provide confirmation that you are doing things right or the realization that some financial changes are needed.
Califoria SOL
The California statute of limitations on debt limits the amount of time you can be sued for an overdue debt
The California statute of limitations on debt limits the amount of time you can be sued for an overdue debt
APR
APR stands for annual percentage rate. It's the annual cost of borrowing money on a credit card or loan.
APR stands for annual percentage rate. It's the annual cost of borrowing money on a credit card or loan.
New Credit Card Credit Score
Before you open a new credit card account, think about what it’s going to do to your credit score.
Before you open a new credit card account, think about what it’s going to do to your credit score.
Credit Cards to Rebuild Bad Credit
Finding the right credit cards for rebuilding bad credit is key to improving your credit score.
Finding the right credit cards for rebuilding bad credit is key to improving your credit score.
Wells Fargo Cash Back College
The Wells Fargo Cash Back College Credit Card is an excellent way for young people to establish their credit history with a bank with a good reputation for keeping customers happy. It also pays a cash-back reward.
The Wells Fargo Cash Back College Credit Card is an excellent way for young people to establish their credit history with a bank with a good reputation for keeping customers happy. It also pays a cash-back reward.
Pros and Cons Secured Card
A secured credit card lets you make a deposit against the credit limit on the card. If you're not able to get approved for a traditional credit card a secured credit card is a good option.
A secured credit card lets you make a deposit against the credit limit on the card. If you're not able to get approved for a traditional credit card a secured credit card is a good option.
SOL Clock Start
The crucial factor in figuring out whether the statute of limitations has expired is to determine when the clock started ticking.
The crucial factor in figuring out whether the statute of limitations has expired is to determine when the clock started ticking.
Credit Repair Mistakes
If you’re thinking about repairing your credit, or even if you’re going through the process now, there are some things you shouldn’t do. Here are 10 credit repair mistakes you want to avoid.
If you’re thinking about repairing your credit, or even if you’re going through the process now, there are some things you shouldn’t do. Here are 10 credit repair mistakes you want to avoid.
Sample Goodwill Letter
Customize this sample goodwill letter to ask creditors to remove negative information to from your credit report.
Customize this sample goodwill letter to ask creditors to remove negative information to from your credit report.
Avoid Credit Card Fraud
Credit card fraud can a be time consuming to get over. You can avoid credit card fraud by following steps to keep your credit card information safe.
Credit card fraud can a be time consuming to get over. You can avoid credit card fraud by following steps to keep your credit card information safe.
SoL & Credit Reporting
Some debts may still appear on your credit report even after the statute of limitations has expired. You may be able to remove them if the credit reporting time limit has also passed.
Some debts may still appear on your credit report even after the statute of limitations has expired. You may be able to remove them if the credit reporting time limit has also passed.
How To Use Credit
Whether you're building or rebuilding your credit, knowing the right way to make charges and payments will help raise your credit score.
Whether you're building or rebuilding your credit, knowing the right way to make charges and payments will help raise your credit score.
Billing Cycle
the period of time between billings
the period of time between billings
Good Credit Matters
Good credit goes far beyond getting approved for a credit card or loan. Find out why good credit is so important and how bad credit costs.
Good credit goes far beyond getting approved for a credit card or loan. Find out why good credit is so important and how bad credit costs.
What is a Hard Inquiry
There are two types of credit report inquiries: a hard inquiry and a soft inquiry. One kind hurts your credit score, the other does not.
There are two types of credit report inquiries: a hard inquiry and a soft inquiry. One kind hurts your credit score, the other does not.
FICO Score Definition
A FICO score is a version of your credit score developed by and named after the company who came up with the score.
A FICO score is a version of your credit score developed by and named after the company who came up with the score.
Texas SOL
The statute of limitations on debt in Texas limits the amount of time you can be sued for a debt.
The statute of limitations on debt in Texas limits the amount of time you can be sued for a debt.
Orchard Bank Classic MasterCard
The Orchard Bank Classic MasterCard is for people with poor credit who want an unsecured credit card. It charges high fees and high APRs.
The Orchard Bank Classic MasterCard is for people with poor credit who want an unsecured credit card. It charges high fees and high APRs.
How to Live Within Your Means
If you use credit cards and loans to buy things you can't afford, you're probably living outside your means. Learn how to live within your means and avoid financial ruin.
If you use credit cards and loans to buy things you can't afford, you're probably living outside your means. Learn how to live within your means and avoid financial ruin.
Stupid Debt Payoffs
The easiest way to recognize a âstupidâ debt repayment method is to think about whether the debt is actually
The easiest way to recognize a âstupidâ debt repayment method is to think about whether the debt is actually
Lower Debt Payments
If your debt looks like a mountain and your budget feels like a shovel,at least one of these, possibly two or three, will work in your favor and help you get those debt payments to a manageable level.
If your debt looks like a mountain and your budget feels like a shovel,at least one of these, possibly two or three, will work in your favor and help you get those debt payments to a manageable level.
Capital One Classic Platinum Credit Card
The Capital One Classic Platinum Credit Card is for people with weak credit. It charges relatively low interest rates but a high annual fee.
The Capital One Classic Platinum Credit Card is for people with weak credit. It charges relatively low interest rates but a high annual fee.
Bankruptcy Types
The two major types of personal bankruptcy for consumers are Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. Chapter 7 allows you to discharge debt after some assets have been liquidated. Chapter 13 allows you to discharge debt after completing a payment plan.
The two major types of personal bankruptcy for consumers are Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. Chapter 7 allows you to discharge debt after some assets have been liquidated. Chapter 13 allows you to discharge debt after completing a payment plan.
Different Credit Scores
Find out why you may have a different credit score at each credit bureau.
Find out why you may have a different credit score at each credit bureau.
Sample Close Letter
You can use this letter to close your credit card.
You can use this letter to close your credit card.
Paid Charge Off
: Is a Paid Charge-Off Better for My Credit Report? : A charge-off is an account thatâs gone more than
: Is a Paid Charge-Off Better for My Credit Report? : A charge-off is an account thatâs gone more than
Charge Card vs. Credit Card
Charge cards and credit cards are two different types of credit vehicles. Charge cards require you to repay your full balance by the end of the month, while credit cards let you repay your balance over a period of time.
Charge cards and credit cards are two different types of credit vehicles. Charge cards require you to repay your full balance by the end of the month, while credit cards let you repay your balance over a period of time.
Stop Paying Credit Card Result
Several things will happen if you stop paying your credit card and, in the long run, none of them will be good. Before you stop paying your credit card, look at some alternatives.
Several things will happen if you stop paying your credit card and, in the long run, none of them will be good. Before you stop paying your credit card, look at some alternatives.
Sample Credit Letters
Here are a variety of sample credit letters you can tailor and send to credit card companies, debt collectors, and other credit bureaus.
Here are a variety of sample credit letters you can tailor and send to credit card companies, debt collectors, and other credit bureaus.
Maintain Good Credit Score
Once you make your way to a good credit score, keep it is important. Here are seven ways to maintain a good credit score.
Once you make your way to a good credit score, keep it is important. Here are seven ways to maintain a good credit score.
Credit Score Drop
Trying to figure out why your credit score dropped? These are some possible explanations for a drop in your credit score.
Trying to figure out why your credit score dropped? These are some possible explanations for a drop in your credit score.
Make a Budget
Making a budget is the first step to paying off your debt. You won't be able to get out of debt and stay out if you're not good at managing your money.
Making a budget is the first step to paying off your debt. You won't be able to get out of debt and stay out if you're not good at managing your money.
Rent After Foreclosure
Unfortunately, many homeowners are having their homes foreclosed leaving them to rent. Even though some landlords turn down renters with past foreclosures, there are ways to get around it.
Unfortunately, many homeowners are having their homes foreclosed leaving them to rent. Even though some landlords turn down renters with past foreclosures, there are ways to get around it.
Debt Plan
Successful debt reduction starts with a plan. Learn how to put together a plan to get out of debt, decide which debts to focus on, and how to create a budget to get out of debt.
Successful debt reduction starts with a plan. Learn how to put together a plan to get out of debt, decide which debts to focus on, and how to create a budget to get out of debt.
Remove Negative Credit Report Entries
Being able to rid your credit report of negative credit report information can help improve your credit score by dozens of points or more. Here are some techniques for removing negative information from your credit report.
Being able to rid your credit report of negative credit report information can help improve your credit score by dozens of points or more. Here are some techniques for removing negative information from your credit report.
Credit Card Features
Explanation of the most common features of a credit card including types of credit cards, interest rate, grace period, fees, and finance charge.
Explanation of the most common features of a credit card including types of credit cards, interest rate, grace period, fees, and finance charge.
Michigan SOL
The statute of limitations on debt in Michigan limits the time you can be sued for a debt
The statute of limitations on debt in Michigan limits the time you can be sued for a debt
Avoid Charge-Off
Avoiding a charge-off is completely within your control. Learn how you can avoid a charge-off even if you're already behind.
Avoiding a charge-off is completely within your control. Learn how you can avoid a charge-off even if you're already behind.
Balance up, Score Down
Your credit card balance has a big impact on your credit score. Learn what happens when you have a big balance and find out the ideal credit card balance for a good credit score.
Your credit card balance has a big impact on your credit score. Learn what happens when you have a big balance and find out the ideal credit card balance for a good credit score.
Lower Interest Rate
Want a lower interest rate? Here's how to get your creditors to lower your interest rate.
Want a lower interest rate? Here's how to get your creditors to lower your interest rate.
Restart SOL
Be careful about taking certain actions on a dormant account. You could restart the statute of limitations and give creditors more time to sue you.
Be careful about taking certain actions on a dormant account. You could restart the statute of limitations and give creditors more time to sue you.
Score Match
Score Match lists credit cards based on your credit score.
Score Match lists credit cards based on your credit score.
North Carolina SOL
The statute of limitations on debt in North Carolina limits the time you can be sued for a debt
The statute of limitations on debt in North Carolina limits the time you can be sued for a debt
Removed Cosigned Name
Find out how to remove your name from a cosigned loan, even if your name was forged on the loan.
Find out how to remove your name from a cosigned loan, even if your name was forged on the loan.
Pros Cons Joint Credit
Before you sign up for a joint credit card account with a spouse, family member or friend, make sure you undertand the advantages and disadvantages of sharing an account.
Before you sign up for a joint credit card account with a spouse, family member or friend, make sure you undertand the advantages and disadvantages of sharing an account.
Walmart Discover Card Review
The Walmart Discover Card offers up to 1% cash-back on purchases plus a bonus reward of $20 on your first purchase of $100 or more.
The Walmart Discover Card offers up to 1% cash-back on purchases plus a bonus reward of $20 on your first purchase of $100 or more.
Inactive Credit Card Closed
If you haven't used your credit card in awhile, here's why your credit card issuer might close your account and what you can do about it.
If you haven't used your credit card in awhile, here's why your credit card issuer might close your account and what you can do about it.
SOL for Debt
The statute of limitations for a specific debt depends on the state where the debt was created and the type of debt.
The statute of limitations for a specific debt depends on the state where the debt was created and the type of debt.
FreeCreditReport.com Review
You've heard the late-night jingles about going to freecreditreport.com. Is it a scam or do you really receive a free credit report?
You've heard the late-night jingles about going to freecreditreport.com. Is it a scam or do you really receive a free credit report?