Dan Rafter's blog

Here's What Happens to an Account in Collections — Even When You Pay Up

Paying off or settling an account in collections is better than avoiding it. Just don't expect your credit score to rebound soon.

There's nothing easy about divorce, including managing your credit. Here's what to look for.

When a creditor takes you to court your best defense is preparation.

Planning for end-of-life is no one's picnic, but these questions could help spare your loved ones a lot of pain after you're gone.

Your insurance needs change over time. When you reach retirement, they'll change again.

You're eager to start that home remodel, but don't skip out on grilling your contractor first.

Even in a hot market, smart sellers will work every advantage to get the maximum value out of a sale.

A 0% balance transfer offer can be a great way to tackle high-interest credit card debt. But what if the offer doesn't cover all your debt?

Buying a house is a big deal -- and almost all of it is negotiable. Here's what else you can haggle over besides price.

Financial planning doesn't care how much money you make. You still need to do it.

If your grown children are still depending on you for every little money matter, it's time to teach them how to go it alone.

These bad behaviors are hard to break — but if you don't, they could break your finances.

If you're fast approaching the big 3-0, it's high-time to leave these credit card mistakes in the past.

You want to take care of your kids. But you also need to take care of your own financial future.

The ATM just ate your deposit. Don't panic! You can fix it.

The retailer behind your store-branded credit card just went kaput. What happens to your plastic — and your debt — now?

You should buy a home because you want to — not because these myths make you believe it's a good idea.

Your credit score takes into account everything about your finances, right? No, and you might be surprised at what isn't included.

A financial emergency strikes, and your only resource is your 401(k). Before you take that money, there are few important things to understand.

An emergency fund isn't just for the working world. You need to bring one into retirement, too.