Articles on Debt Management

Why We Take on Credit Card Debt

Why some of us take on so much debt — and how others manage to avoid it so well — can seem mysterious. Discover some of the reasons.

Downside of the Rolling Jubilee

The Rolling Jubilee is a great PR move — buying, then forgiving debt from real people. But in terms of change, one writer says it might hurt more than help.

What You Must Know Before Transferring Credit Card Balances

Many credit card issuers offer 0% APR balance transfer deals. Before you apply, learn how balance transfers work and how your credit score may be affected.

5 Myths About Credit Card Rewards

Reward cards might be a lot more beneficial (or, in some cases, harmful) than you think. Check out these common myths — and the true story behind them.

10 Surprising Ways to Negatively Affect Your Credit Score

Even when you aren't applying for a credit card or loan, your credit score can be affected by a variety of actions — even forgetting to return your library books.

5 Best Credit Cards for (New) Parents

Having kids changes your spending habits. Shouldn't your credit card change to match? Here are five smart cards to switch to post-baby.

What Are Secured Credit Cards?

Learn how secured credit cards are different from regular credit cards and prepaid cards, how they help rebuild credit, and how to choose one.

4 Ways Credit Cards Manipulate You Into More Debt

We humans aren't always rational. Learn four psychological tricks credit card companies use to capitalize on your irrationality and maximize your debt.

5 Best Prepaid Debit Cards

Prepaid debit cards offer the convenience of a regular credit card...with some unexpected benefits. Learn more about these financial tools.

Consumer Reports Picks Top 3 Credit Cards for Your Needs

Consumer Reports names the best cash-back, travel, and balance transfer credit cards of the year. Are your cards on the list?

How to Rebuild Your Credit in 8 Simple Steps

Bad credit will cost you more for insurance and loans, and may close some opportunities altogether. Learn how to rebuild a poor credit rating to an excellent one.

Taming Your Debt: Aggressive Repayment Strategies

Getting into debt is easy; getting out is the hard part. These strategies will help you aggressively attack and defeat your debts.

The Freedom of a Debt-Free Life

Living in debt can be like living in a cage. Discover the freedom of breaking free.

Always Answer the Call: Expert Advice on Debt Collection

Michelle Dunn has experience as both a debt collector and as a debtor. Get her expert advice on dealing with collections agencies.

Cancel Student Loans to Save — and Receive an Interest-Free 120-Day Loan

What's an easy way to have less debt? Return money you don't need. In federal loan lingo, it's called "canceling" your loan, and it can save you a lot.

When Avoiding Debt Is the Losing Strategy

It's almost always a good idea to stay out of debt. But sometimes, refusing to take on debt could hurt you in the long run.

Slow and Steady Wins the Debt Race

When you're in deep debt, bankruptcy can look appealing. However, the long way out of debt is usually the best way to get — and stay — out of debt.

Get Out of Debt? Why?

Spending money can be a lot of fun, especially when credit keeps things going. It begs a very simple question — why bother getting out of debt?

How to Do a Spending Fast in 16 (Easy!) Steps

If you're looking for a way to get out of debt fast, a spending fast might be right for you. Discover this somewhat extreme (but very effective) technique.

8 More Smart Things to Do With Your Tax Refund

Filing taxes can be a pain in the you-know-what, but it's all worth it when the refund arrives. Use the extra cash wisely with these eight suggestions.