Getting Out of Debt
How to Get Out of Debt on a Low Income
A step-by-step guide to getting out of debt on a low income, including budgeting, negotiation, and debt relief options.
17 min read
Take control of your debt — clearly and confidently
Plain-English guides to paying off debt, raising your credit score, fixing your credit report and choosing the right debt relief option.
Latest guides
Credit Report & Disputes
How to Get Collections Off Your Credit Report (Step-by-Step)
Learn how to get collections off your credit report with our step-by-step guide, including dispute letters, pay-for-delete, and goodwill requests.
17 min read
Debt Relief Options
Tax Debt Relief: Programs and Options to Resolve What You Owe the IRS
Learn about IRS tax debt relief programs including offers in compromise, installment agreements, and penalty abatement. Compare debt relief vs consolidation to find the best path to resolve your tax debt.
21 min read
Debt Relief Options
New Metro 2 Special Comment Code for Debt Settlement: What It Means for Your Credit
The new Metro 2 Special Comment Code for debt settlement changes how settled accounts appear on credit reports. Learn what it means for your credit score and how to manage the impact.
16 min read
Credit Card Debt
Credit Card Delinquency Is at a 15-Year High: What Should You Do?
Credit card delinquency is at a 15-year high. Learn what it means for you and get a step-by-step plan to pay off debt fast, even on a low income.
26 min read
Credit Card Debt
Is a 0% APR Card a Good Way to Pay Off Credit Card Debt?
A 0% APR card can help you pay off credit card debt faster by stopping interest, but it's not a cure-all. Learn how to use it wisely and avoid common pitfalls.
17 min read
Credit Score
Does Rent Reporting Really Boost Your Credit Score by 150 Points?
Rent reporting can help build credit, but a 150-point boost is rare. Learn how it works, realistic timelines, and faster ways to improve your score.
16 min read
Credit Score
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac's New FICO Score 10T: What Homebuyers Need to Know
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac now accept FICO Score 10T for mortgage lending. Learn how this change affects your credit score requirements and what you can do to prepare.
16 min read
Getting Out of Debt
Should You Build an Emergency Fund While Paying Off Debt?
Struggling with whether to save or pay off debt? Learn why a small emergency fund comes first, how it prevents more debt, and how to balance both goals without sacrificing progress.
21 min read
Debt Relief Options
What Debt Collectors Can and Cannot Do: Your Rights Under the FDCPA
Learn what debt collectors can and cannot do under the FDCPA, plus your rights and steps to stop harassment.
21 min read
Debt Relief Options
How Long Does Bankruptcy Stay on Your Credit Report?
Bankruptcy stays on your credit report for 7-10 years depending on the type. Learn how long each chapter lasts, how it affects your score, and what you can do to rebuild credit.
17 min read
Debt Relief Options
Debt Consolidation vs Bankruptcy: Which Option Is Better?
Compare debt consolidation and bankruptcy to decide which path fits your financial situation. We break down costs, credit impact, timelines, and alternatives to help you choose wisely.
18 min read