Federal student loan forgiveness and cancellation guide
Federal student loan payment obligations resumed in October 2023. Here’s what you need to know about where federal student loan forgiveness stands.
Using Credit Responsibly
How I got out of debt–and how you can, too
Pay off your debt by committing to not taking on new debt, getting organized, earning more, and paying down one debt at a time.
How to get your free credit reports and scores
Keeping track of your credit health is a critical part of responsible personal finance and can save money over time. Thankfully, it’s never been easier to get free credit report details and free credit scores online. Here are your best options.
Personal loans vs. credit cards: Which is better to finance a large purchase?
Personal loans are best for making a single large purchase that you need to repay over several years. To finance a purchase over a shorter period of time — or when you’re not sure how much you’ll need to borrow — a credit card will provide more flexibility
How long does it take to build credit from nothing?
Starting with zero credit history, you can establish credit in as little as six months. Achieving a “good” credit score of 700 or better usually requires making timely payments for at least 18 months to two years, but it’s possible to find shortcuts.
Loan payoff calculator
Calculate your monthly loan payment for a given term or how long it will take you to repay a loan with a given monthly payment.
Student loan grace period vs deferment vs forbearance
Grace periods are the time between graduation and when you need to start making payments on your student loans. Deferment allows you to stop making payments so you can return to school. Forbearance stops the payment requirement due to hardship. But caution is needed when using each of these options. Interest is most likely accruing while you are not making payments.
How to pay back your student loans
Your grace period is almost over and soon you’ll have to pay back your student loans. Here is every possible way you could do that.
What credit score do you need to get approved for a credit card?
Most credit cards require a very good credit score of 700 or higher. And cards with lots of perks, like travel and cash back rewards, typically ask for excellent scores of 750+. But that doesn’t mean you can’t qualify for a credit card with a lower score — you just need to apply for the right one.
Subsidized vs Unsubsidized Loans: Here Are The Big Differences
Subsidized loans mean Uncle Sam helps you out with interest while you’re in school or deferment. With unsubsidized loans, Uncle Sam’s no help and interest starts accruing the minute you get your loan money—and it’s all on you to pay it back.