author

Kimberly Rotter

Author

Kimberly Rotter is a financial counselor and consumer credit expert who helps people with average or low incomes discover how to create wealth and opportunities. She’s a veteran writer and editor who has spent more than 30 years creating thousands of hours of educational content in every possible format.

How to Avoid Lifestyle Creep and a Hamster Wheel of Debt
How to Avoid Lifestyle Creep and a Hamster Wheel of Debt

April 1, 2026

When you finally get out of debt, you don't want to dive back into borrowing too much again. Here's how you can avoid falling back into the debt trap.

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How Do You Remove a Delinquent Student Loan from Your Credit Reports?
How Do You Remove a Delinquent Student Loan from Your Credit Reports?

April 1, 2026

You can correct at least some kinds of credit report damage from missed student loan payments. Here’s how.

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What Is a Mechanic's Lien and How Does It Work?
What Is a Mechanic's Lien and How Does It Work?

April 1, 2026

A mechanic's lien could happen if you don’t pay a contractor. Learn how to get a lien released.

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Why Does Higher Credit Utilization Decrease Your Credit Score?
Why Does Higher Credit Utilization Decrease Your Credit Score?

April 1, 2026

Maxing-out credit cards? Higher credit utilization could lower your credit score. See if you might need debt relief.

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Debt Collection Rules: 7-in-7
Debt Collection Rules: 7-in-7

April 4, 2026

The 7-in-7 rule helps protect you from harassment by debt collectors. Here’s how it works—and what it doesn't cover.

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How Big Should My Emergency Fund Be if I Want to Avoid Debt?
How Big Should My Emergency Fund Be if I Want to Avoid Debt?

April 2, 2026

Your emergency fund could shield you from debt. Read on to see how much savings it takes to stay debt-free.

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How to Budget to Pay Off Debt
How to Budget to Pay Off Debt

April 2, 2026

Making a realistic budget that prioritizes debt payoff is often the best and fastest way to become debt-free.

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Can a Co-Signer Settle a Debt?
Can a Co-Signer Settle a Debt?

April 2, 2026

When a co-signed loan becomes a financial headache, debt settlement may be the cure.

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Will a Dealership Really Pay Off My Car Loan?
Will a Dealership Really Pay Off My Car Loan?

April 2, 2026

Calculate whether a dealership offer would cover your current loan or hand you higher monthly payments.

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What Happens if My Car Is Repossessed?
What Happens if My Car Is Repossessed?

April 2, 2026

Having a car repossessed could impact your credit and most of your life. Learn the steps to avoid losing your vehicle.

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