Category:
Credit

Secured vs. Unsecured Debt Consolidation Loans: What’s Right for You?

By Maureen Milliken | January 9, 2026

When people are overwhelmed with debt – particularly credit card debt – a debt consolidation loan is one solution. A debt consolidation loan combines several accounts into one monthly bill.…

Understanding the Credit Utilization Ratio

By Michael Knisley | January 9, 2026

To the math-challenged among us, a credit utilization ratio might sound daunting, like one of those impossibly difficult abstract number problems that mere mortals will never understand. So, it’d be…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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,…

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…

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…

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…