How to pay down credit card debt – once and for all
Many people use the beginning of the year to make financial resolutions, including to pay off credit card debt. Whether it’s January or July, any time is the perfect time to learn how to get out, and stay out, of debt for good. These do’s and don’ts will give you the tools you need to make it happen.
Kevin has worked with Freedom Financial Network since 2005. Before that time, he held the position of enrollment sales supervisor for Nationwide Financial Solutions in Tempe, Ariz. Kevin also has worked as a business analyst and customer service...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesHow to establish good credit habits in your early career years
If you’re a young person just starting to make your way in the world, you’ve likely been told by some authority (parents, teachers, adults on the street) how important it is to build good credit. A solid credit history may not make a huge difference for you now, but it will pay dividends later in life, when you need good credit to buy a house, buy a car, or even get a job!
Luckily, you can get started now: follow these tips, and your credit health will grow as time goes on. You won’t be left out in the cold when you need to qualify for that big loan.
As president of CreditRepair.com, Scott Smith manages the credit repair delivery process for enrolled members, supervising a staff of dedicated consumer advocates and communications specialists. Scott has worked with CreditRepair.com since its i...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesHow to keep a high credit score and a healthy credit report
Do you know how credit affects you? Many people believe that their credit score is only important when buying a home. While knowing your credit score is very important when home buying, consumers should be monitoring more frequently than just this occasion. Credit can affect you in many ways, especially during life’s milestones like setting up utilities, buying a car, landing a job, planning a wedding, getting a college degree, or growing your family.
To help you better understand credit and make informed decisions here are the dos and don’ts to help guide you.
Emilia Lopez is a Vice President in the US Card division at Capital One. In this role, she leads the US Card Hispanic segment as well as our agenda to Help People Use Credit Wisely which includes View Full Profile
How to break out of the debt cycle and balance finances
Working one’s way out of major credit card debt is extremely rewarding. Consumers feel that a heavy weight has lifted off their shoulders. Stress levels decrease, and a sense of freedom prevails. Yet, just as people who’ve lost a significant amount of weight will gain it all back unless they change their lifestyles, individuals who’ve gotten out of debt will fall back into the same situation unless they change their mindsets and habits. If you don’t want to get caught in the debt cycle, follow these do’s and don’ts.
Kevin has worked with Freedom Financial Network since 2005. Before that time, he held the position of enrollment sales supervisor for Nationwide Financial Solutions in Tempe, Ariz. Kevin also has worked as a business analyst and customer service...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesTeach your teen how to use a credit card responsibly and pay debt
The world of credit cards can be a big, wide, scary one for teenagers – and for their parents. Speaking with your children about how to save money, use a credit card responsibly, and pay off debt can help alleviate some of that fear. These do’s and don’ts can navigate the course and help assure that your teens get off on the right money management foot.
Kevin has worked with Freedom Financial Network since 2005. Before that time, he held the position of enrollment sales supervisor for Nationwide Financial Solutions in Tempe, Ariz. Kevin also has worked as a business analyst and customer service...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesTeach your teen about money and good credit card habits
Whether your teen is in middle school, high school, or heading into college, they are probably becoming more and more aware of money, and wanting a checking account, or even a credit card. Teens and credit cards—it can be a scary combination—but it’s an important subject to talk about with your child.
Jeanne Kelly is an author, speaker, and coach who helps consumers achieve a higher credit score & understand credit reporting. As the founder of The Kelly Group in 2000 and the author of The 90-Day Credit Challenge, Jeanne Kelly is a nationa...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesLower your credit card interest rate with a phone call
High credit card interest rates can make it difficult to pay down debt. Fortunately, unlike fixed rate loans, credit card interest rates are usually negotiable. Most credit card companies will be willing to work with you rather than lose you as a customer, and in many cases, you can get a lower interest rate just by spending a little time on the phone.
Here is expert advice that may prove helpful when considering the rates of interest you pay on your credit cards.
As president of CreditRepair.com, Scott Smith manages the credit repair delivery process for enrolled members, supervising a staff of dedicated consumer advocates and communications specialists. Scott has worked with CreditRepair.com since its i...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesHow and why you should improve your credit score
Like most Americans when it comes to fixing your credit you most likely think, "But I don't know what to do," or even, "I tried, but I never finished last quarter.” Well you're not alone, which is a good thing but also a bad thing. Thousands of Americans are letting their credit stay in the tangled mess it’s been in for years and while this doesn't seem like its affecting you, believe me it is. It's also slowly ruining your chances for loans, getting that new car or even buying the dream house that you've had your eyes on for years.
Jeanne Kelly is an author, speaker, and coach who helps consumers achieve a higher credit score & understand credit reporting. As the founder of The Kelly Group in 2000 and the author of The 90-Day Credit Challenge, Jeanne Kelly is a nationa...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesHow to recognize and avoid a personal financial disaster
While the overall financial situation has recently improved in the United States, many Americans are still facing tough personal financial circumstances. It is important to be able to recognize the signs leading up to a personal financial disaster so you can take the necessary steps to avoid a financial catastrophe and get back on track before it’s too late.
Katie Ross joined ACCC's management team in 2002 and is currently responsible for organizing and implementing high performance development initiatives designed to increase consumer financial awareness. With more than more than thirteen years of ...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesThe importance of debt: Is there such a thing as healthy debt?
With total consumer debt ever rising, credit card issuers offering more and more types of cards, and housing prices (and their mortgages) going up again, it’s no surprise that debt is often considered a path to financial turmoil. The good news is that there is such a thing as healthy debt. Consumers who understand – and learn to manage – good debt can put themselves on the road to financial fitness.
Kevin has worked with Freedom Financial Network since 2005. Before that time, he held the position of enrollment sales supervisor for Nationwide Financial Solutions in Tempe, Ariz. Kevin also has worked as a business analyst and customer service...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesExpert advice on how to deal with a debt collector
Debt collection, when handled properly, provides a necessary service that can reduce costs for consumers. Yet debt collectors are among the companies that consumers complain about most to consumer protection agencies and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). What to do if a debt collector is calling you? Read on.
Kevin has worked with Freedom Financial Network since 2005. Before that time, he held the position of enrollment sales supervisor for Nationwide Financial Solutions in Tempe, Ariz. Kevin also has worked as a business analyst and customer service...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesUnderstand debt settlement to help deal with your debt problem
If you are in the unfortunate position of having significant debt, and can’t see how you’ll ever pay it off, you may be considering a number of alternatives. Before you go any further, consider this expert advice for debt resolution (also known as debt settlement) to make sure you understand this option, and if it could be right for you.
Kevin has worked with Freedom Financial Network since 2005. Before that time, he held the position of enrollment sales supervisor for Nationwide Financial Solutions in Tempe, Ariz. Kevin also has worked as a business analyst and customer service...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesBe financially responsible with your credit card while in college
When you are off in college, it may be the first time you are financially independent. This independence often brings a credit card along with the ride. If you are not making a steady income or not able to keep up with the many expenses that come along with college, this credit card can become a fatality in your financial independence plan. If you feel you are ready to take on the responsibility of a credit card, make sure you follow this advice before signing on the dotted line.
Headquartered in Melville, N.Y. and led by financial attorney Leslie H. Tayne, Esq., The Law Offices of Leslie H. Tayne P.C. is the only New York State practice whose sole concentration is debt resolution and bankruptcy alternatives. Since its e...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesAvoid bankruptcy, take control of your debt, and repair your finances
If you are overwhelmed with debt, you may feel that bankruptcy is your only way out. There are usually two different options that consumers have when entering into a bankruptcy.
A Chapter 13 is a restructuring of the debts. The debtor will work with their creditors to create a payment plan for them to pay down these debts. Although this may help a person get in good standing with their creditors, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they have broken the credit card spending addiction.
Headquartered in Melville, N.Y. and led by financial attorney Leslie H. Tayne, Esq., The Law Offices of Leslie H. Tayne P.C. is the only New York State practice whose sole concentration is debt resolution and bankruptcy alternatives. Since its e...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesChoose the right debt consolidation company to help pay down your debt
Dealing with debt can be frustrating and stressful. At times, you may feel like there is no way out. Yet several debt relief opportunities exist. One of them is debt consolidation. Companies providing debt consolidation services combine all of your debts into one loan, so you can simplify bill paying by owing to just one creditor. If you decide to go this route, take time to review this advice when choosing a debt consolidation service.
Kevin has worked with Freedom Financial Network since 2005. Before that time, he held the position of enrollment sales supervisor for Nationwide Financial Solutions in Tempe, Ariz. Kevin also has worked as a business analyst and customer service...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesGet a credit card with low interest rate and great rewards program
A credit card is a bit like a chainsaw -- it's a very handy tool, but it's also capable of inflicting major damage if used improperly. The same advice applies to both of them: choose the right tool for the job and be sure to follow the safety rules.
Here are some helpful tips on what to do and what to avoid when searching and applying for the credit card that fits you best.
Ben Woolsey is Director of Marketing and Consumer Research for CreditCards.com and offers a perspective gained from a 20-year financial services career. Woolsey has been involved in the design of rewards programs and marketing both consumer and ...
View Full ProfileAvoiding holiday debt
The winter holidays are the most expensive shopping season of the year. With gifts alone running the average consumer over $500, it’s easy to get into trouble with debt during the holidays. Here are some hints to help you avoid over-spending and maintain control of your debt throughout the expensive holiday season.
Howard S. Dvorkin is the founder of Consolidated Credit Counseling Services. He is dedicated to public outreach initiatives and has contributed his time, knowledge and resources to educating consumers about personal finance. He has helped thousa...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesHow to rebuild your credit after clearing up debt problems
Once you’ve eliminated a debt problem, it’s time to make a real plan for your financial future. Learn what steps you should take to rebuild your credit, build your nest egg, and ensure you maintain a healthy amount of debt moving forward. With the right plan, you can weather any financial storm that may be just over the horizon.
Howard S. Dvorkin is the founder of Consolidated Credit Counseling Services. He is dedicated to public outreach initiatives and has contributed his time, knowledge and resources to educating consumers about personal finance. He has helped thousa...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesHow to handle a debt collector demanding payment on the phone
Getting calls from debt collectors can be a difficult event in your life. It could be a sign that you are behind on payments, the victim of identity theft, or it could be a mistake on the part of the debt collector. In addition, debt collectors can be rude, pushy, and insulting when trying to collect the debt(s) they claim you owe.
Debt collection agencies, and their employees, get paid to collect the debt they’re calling you about, and in many cases, they don’t care if the debt they claim you owe is accurate or not. If they can get you to pay over the phone, they will do so.
As president of CreditRepair.com, Scott Smith manages the credit repair delivery process for enrolled members, supervising a staff of dedicated consumer advocates and communications specialists. Scott has worked with CreditRepair.com since its i...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesWhat to do when there are errors on your credit report
If you see an unrecognized item on your credit report, there are a few things you can do to determine what the item is and what, if any, action you should take. Errors or fraudulent items on your credit report can damage your credit, so it’s important to make sure the information is accurate. Follow this list of Dos and Don’ts when reviewing your credit report.
As president of CreditRepair.com, Scott Smith manages the credit repair delivery process for enrolled members, supervising a staff of dedicated consumer advocates and communications specialists. Scott has worked with CreditRepair.com since its i...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesCreate a budget to avoid holiday and credit card debt this year
The months leading up to the holidays can be a busy time for both schedules and credit cards. Instead of simply cringing at credit card bills in January, this advice should provide consumers with a way to prep their finances—before the holidays even begin—to avoid holiday debt.
John Heath was born and raised in Salt Lake City, Utah. He received his BA from the University of Utah and his Juris Doctor from Ohio Northern University. Mr. Heath has worked as an attorney in both a private and public interest practices. He...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesHow to talk to your adult child who is taking on too much debt
As many American families are well too aware, taking on too much debt can be a crippling mistake. Astronomical credit card or student loan payments, car loans, mortgages, and other forms of debt can add up and become financially debilitating. If, and when, an individual is ready to start fighting back the mountain of debt they’ve accrued, it’s a stressful, uphill battle.
As president of CreditRepair.com, Scott Smith manages the credit repair delivery process for enrolled members, supervising a staff of dedicated consumer advocates and communications specialists. Scott has worked with CreditRepair.com since its i...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesHow to pay off large credit card debt charged to multiple cards
It’s easy to rack up credit card debt across multiple credit cards, especially when you’re just starting out in life, or have hit financial difficulty and need a way to fund your needs. The issue, of course, is that you can end up paying way more than the value of your purchases when factoring in interest accrued over time. If you’re looking to pay down your credit card debt, and have multiple credit cards, use this advice to get started paying down those credit card balances.
As president of CreditRepair.com, Scott Smith manages the credit repair delivery process for enrolled members, supervising a staff of dedicated consumer advocates and communications specialists. Scott has worked with CreditRepair.com since its i...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesHow to pay off credit card, student loan, and home mortgage debt
It’s so easy to pull out the credit card, apply for a loan, go with the financing option on a car or other large purchase. It’s not really money, many think. But hard earned money has to pay the bills, and all money borrowed—whether it’s a line of credit or an interest rate that is applied when an item is not paid in full up front—is bill that must be paid.
Brenda Hendrickson, CSA has been in the accounting and tax field for over twenty years and is owner of an accounting and tax firm, Brenda Hendrickson CSA, LLC, in New Jersey. She started her career as a full charge bookkeeper, an accounting man...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesHow to negotiate a lower interest rate on your credit cards
Lowering your credit card’s annual percentage rate (APR) isn’t as easy as pressing a button. You must have a strategy in place and follow through on that strategy in reality. Here are some tips on how to negotiate a lower rate.
Matthew is the co-founder and CEO of Wallaby Financial. Prior to founding Wallaby, Matthew served as Executive Director of Product Management for AT&T Interactive (YP.com), where he managed a $650 million advertising P&L. Prior to AT&T, Matthew ...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesEverything you need to know about credit reports and credit scores
One of the most common mistakes that people make is confusing their credit report with their credit score. In addition, many people do not know what is included in a standard credit report. Being able to understand the two indicators is critical because they both reveal a lot about your financial history and directly impact your financial future. Understanding your credit score and credit report will help you identify financial strengths and weaknesses as well as take steps towards financial stability.
Katie Ross joined ACCC's management team in 2002 and is currently responsible for organizing and implementing high performance development initiatives designed to increase consumer financial awareness. With more than more than thirteen years of ...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesHow to improve your credit score and ensure financial health
Just as a physician might rely on certain numbers (weight, blood pressure) to help determine your physical health, financial institutions, creditors and lenders also look at numbers to help assess your financial health. Specifically, they look at credit scores. A credit score of at least 700 will help you obtain better rates on any loan, and can help in many aspects of your financial life.
Kevin has worked with Freedom Financial Network since 2005. Before that time, he held the position of enrollment sales supervisor for Nationwide Financial Solutions in Tempe, Ariz. Kevin also has worked as a business analyst and customer service...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesHow to negotiate outstanding debt with a credit card company
Negotiating payment with a credit card company can be a stressful situation for some people. The important thing is to be honest, communicate in a easily understandable way, and to always get any agreement you make in writing. Also, knowing your rights as a consumer when it comes to federal credit card and debt collection laws is important in ensuring you aren’t taken advantage of or harassed. Here is some advice to help.
Seasoned public affairs veteran with more than 20 years experience in strategic communication for the public, private and non-profit sectors. ...
View Full ProfileChoose a trusted debt settlement company to help resolve your debt
Designed for those in very serious debt hardship, debt resolution - also called debt settlement - offers an alternative to debt management (credit counseling), debt consolidation and bankruptcy. Debt settlement programs help qualified clients who stay with the program fully resolve their debts, typically in two to four years. In choosing a provider, heed this expert advice.
Kevin has worked with Freedom Financial Network since 2005. Before that time, he held the position of enrollment sales supervisor for Nationwide Financial Solutions in Tempe, Ariz. Kevin also has worked as a business analyst and customer service...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesCredit counseling can reduce monthly payments and pay off debt
If you are carrying high amounts of debt and struggling to pay, you may be considering credit counseling. Before taking any steps though, review this advice to make sure you understand credit counseling, and if it offers a possible solution for you.
Kevin has worked with Freedom Financial Network since 2005. Before that time, he held the position of enrollment sales supervisor for Nationwide Financial Solutions in Tempe, Ariz. Kevin also has worked as a business analyst and customer service...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesHow to stop harassing phone calls from debt collectors
When you are behind on your bills, you may begin to get calls from debt collectors. They can persistent and even become harassing. Here is some helpful advice for how to be in the know when dealing with collection activity for past due accounts.
Headquartered in Melville, N.Y. and led by financial attorney Leslie H. Tayne, Esq., The Law Offices of Leslie H. Tayne P.C. is the only New York State practice whose sole concentration is debt resolution and bankruptcy alternatives. Since its e...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesTeach your college student financial responsibility with a credit card
Credit cards and college students; the answer as to whether to send your child off to college with a credit card may not be so clear cut. Since there are other options that don’t involve late fees and high interest rates, getting a credit card may not be the best option for you and your child. Though, if you feel that your child is either financially responsible or this is a good time to teach them how to use a credit card without going into debt, then keep this advice in mind.
Headquartered in Melville, N.Y. and led by financial attorney Leslie H. Tayne, Esq., The Law Offices of Leslie H. Tayne P.C. is the only New York State practice whose sole concentration is debt resolution and bankruptcy alternatives. Since its e...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesAvoid late fees and lower interest charges with debt consolidation
If you often are late in paying bills, and are paying high late fees and interest charges, you may be looking at some form of debt relief. Debt consolidation might be an option. Before you take the leap though, take the time to understand what it really is, and for whom it is best suited.
Kevin has worked with Freedom Financial Network since 2005. Before that time, he held the position of enrollment sales supervisor for Nationwide Financial Solutions in Tempe, Ariz. Kevin also has worked as a business analyst and customer service...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesStay out of debt and within your budget when shopping for the holidays
As the holiday season approaches each year, many people are ill-prepared for the expenses and debt that can accompany the season’s festive celebrations. Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, and Christmas only come once a year and you don’t want to spend the next year paying off your bills. Before you head to the shopping malls or online stores to buy gifts or plan travel, take a moment to make a budget for the holidays. Your holiday spirit, wallet, and checkbook all will thank you.
Kevin has worked with Freedom Financial Network since 2005. Before that time, he held the position of enrollment sales supervisor for Nationwide Financial Solutions in Tempe, Ariz. Kevin also has worked as a business analyst and customer service...
View Full ProfileRecent ArticlesHow to pay down credit card debt on your own
Despite changing consumer spending habits in the wake of a rough economy, and new consumer protection legislation, credit card debt still plagues American consumers. Nearly 47 percent of households carry credit card debt. The average debt balance is a whopping $15,325 as of July 2012. Yet it is still possible to pay down your own credit card debt. You’ll need to understand the ways to do so, choose a system that works for you, and use it consistently. Here are some dos and don’ts to help you pay down your credit card debt.
Kevin has worked with Freedom Financial Network since 2005. Before that time, he held the position of enrollment sales supervisor for Nationwide Financial Solutions in Tempe, Ariz. Kevin also has worked as a business analyst and customer service...
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