Category:
Credit

Woman and hands with credit cards on color background representing many credit cards.

How Many Credit Cards is Too Many? Ideal Number, Risks & Benefits

By Bill Fay | November 17, 2025

You can have as many credit cards as you want. That doesn’t mean you should get as many as you want. What is the right number for you? That depends…

Debt consolidation is shown on the business photo using the text

How to Qualify for a Debt Consolidation Loan

By Michael Knisley | November 6, 2025

Maybe you can handle one over-used credit card, even if keeping a big balance on it isn’t wise. But how ‘bout two? Or three? Or even four or more well-worn…

Hand cutting a credit card with a scissors representing closing a credit card.

Is Closing a Credit Card Bad?

By Bill Fay | October 28, 2025

The average American has about four credit cards. If you’re an average American, you might want to get rid of at least one of them, thinking it will help you…

Statute of limitations on a court desk representing debt collection

How Long Can a Debt Collector Pursue Old Debt?

By Maureen Milliken | October 14, 2025

Old debts can continue to haunt you, mostly in the form of a ringing phone as debt collectors try to get you to pay. The debt collection agency likely will…

Padlock and credit card on keyboard and electronic circuits.

Credit Privacy Number (CPN): Definition, Risks & Alternatives

By Maureen Milliken | September 19, 2025

Using a Credit Privacy Number (CPN) when applying for a loan or other credit, or even an apartment or job, is illegal. The Federal Trade Commission, Consumer Financial Protection Agency,…

Student hands with credit card on laptop at night.

What Does Default Mean on a Credit Card?

By Bents Dulcio | May 20, 2025

If you’ve missed multiple payments on your credit card, you will be at risk of defaulting – and that’s a big  (sometimes very messy) deal. Default on a credit card…

Credit card statement bill showing the minimum payment with a hand and pen.

How Are Credit Card Minimum Payments Calculated?

By Pat McManamon | May 6, 2025

The minimum payment on a credit card represents the smallest amount you are expected to pay each month. Each card company determines its own minimum payment and calculates it in…

An Arrested Person Hand Linked To Credit Card.

Can You Go to Jail for Credit Card Debt?

By Bill Fay | April 3, 2025

If you can’t pay your credit card bills, you’re probably losing sleep. But there is at least one thing you don’t have to worry about – you can’t be thrown…

Woman looking at many credit cards in her hand and worried about loan debt pay late.

How Do People Get Trapped in Cycles of Credit Card Debt?

By Pat McManamon | April 3, 2025

People who spend more than they earn – and pay bills with credit cards – are candidates for getting trapped in credit card debt. As the debt grows, the tougher…

Wooden Gavel With Credit Card.

What Happens to Credit Card Debt When You Die with No Estate?

By Michael Knisley | March 18, 2025

The only way your credit card debt will magically disappear after you die is if you pass away with no assets at all. Or if the assets you leave behind…