Articles
· Debtmerica
What is a Charge-Off and How Does it Affect a Credit Score?
When we face large sums of debt, we might be familiar with the term debt collection. Debt collection is when a third-party collection agency tries to collect past-due debt from borrowers. What you may not know is that in order for your debt to reach the collections step, it must first be charged off. Here’s […]
· Debtmerica
Financial Resolutions for 2023
With higher interest rates, now is the time to get serious about your finances. At least some of your income should be going towards savings or debt, and both if your budget will allow it. Here are some financial resolutions you can make for 2023. Reevaluate (Or Create) Your Budget When was the last time […]
· Debtmerica
Pros & Cons of Student Loan Consolidation
Student loan forgiveness is still up in the air with multiple lawsuits attempting to block the passage of Biden’s order to cancel up to $20,000 per borrower. Now it seems it might be best to consider alternative actions in case the courts continue to block loan forgiveness. One option is student loan consolidation, which essentially […]
· Debtmerica
Renting vs. Buying a Home
With interest rates at their highest levels in over a decade, the question of renting versus buying a home has become a hot topic. Choosing which option works best for you will depend on different factors like your financial situation, lifestyle, and goals. Renting a Home Renting offers many benefits. It allows greater flexibility […]
· Debtmerica
Paying Off Debt vs. Saving
One of the top financial questions asked is “Should I put my extra money toward paying off my debt or savings?” The answer can vary depending on your current financial situation and the current state of the economy. In any case, it is important to find a balance between the two. Priority #1: Build Up […]
· Debtmerica
Credit Card Mistakes to Avoid
Credit cards are usually the first step to establishing credit. Without this first step, it would be nearly impossible to qualify for larger purchases, like auto loans, mortgages, and more. While it’s true that credit cards have become almost a necessity in our financial growth or even survival, misuse of them can lead to a huge financial burden. […]
· Debtmerica
How to Create a Debt Elimination Plan
There is no one-size-fits-all debt elimination plan. There are several strategies that can be useful when trying to pay down debt under your current financial situation. Here is a brief overview of these strategies that can help you determine the best way to create your own debt elimination plan. Debt Snowball The debt snowball strategy […]
· Debtmerica
Increasing Debt in Younger Creditors
It’s not news that as of late income levels have not been enough to cover the rising costs of living. This has prevented individuals and families from savings, investing, and building wealth overall. Even worse, it has led to an increase in total non-mortgage debt among younger creditors, especially those in their 20s and 30s. […]
· Debtmerica
Immigrants & Unsecured Debt
Exploring how U.S. consumers utilize credit can be indicative of the economy as a whole, especially when looking closely at the behaviors of immigrants in the country. Recent studies have found that immigrants have the tendency to be underbanked, in other words, they are less inclined to have unsecured debt such as loans that are […]
· Debtmerica
Inflation vs. Recession: What’s the Difference?
During economic discussion, we hear the terms “inflation” and “recession” quite often. While the two terms are often assumed to be similar, or steppingstones for each other, they actually have opposite effects on the economy. Inflation Inflation occurs when prices of goods and services increase over time. Put simply, inflation is the reason a gallon […]
· Debtmerica
Credit Card Debt vs, Mortgages: Who Wins?
As 2011 winds down, many people are finding themselves having a difficult time juggling their bills each month. Whether due to a job loss, illness in the family, or unexpected expenses this can be a difficult time for your family. Feeling the pinch in your monthly finances may also mean making choices as to which […]
· Debtmerica
Think Twice Before You Opt For Bankruptcy
You may feel defeated, perhaps even embarrassed. However, if you are facing financial difficulties, think twice before you opt for bankruptcy. Here’s what you might lose: Privacy. When you file bankruptcy, the bankruptcy becomes a matter of public court record. Unless a document is sealed, all cases become available for public viewing. Good Credit Rating. […]