author

Maurie Backman

Contributing Writer

Maurie Backman is a personal finance writer with over 10 years of experience. Her coverage areas include retirement, investing, real estate, and credit and debt management.

Does paying off credit card help credit score
Does Paying Off Your Credit Cards Help Your Credit Score

August 12, 2025

Paying off credit cards can help your credit scores in the long run. However, there are some situations where credit cards can hurt your scores if you're not careful.

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FDR blog setupXmsbudget
How to Set up a Christmas Budget

August 3, 2025

We all like to be generous during the holidays, but you don’t need to overspend.…

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How to Understand and Conquer Financial Phobia
How to Understand and Conquer Financial Phobia

August 16, 2025

If you’re suffering from financial phobia, you’re not alone. Learn more about this fear, how…

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Beyond Coupons: How to Save Money Shopping
Beyond Coupons: How to Save Money Shopping

August 8, 2025

Want to save money shopping? Check out these creative ways…

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Do You Really Need a 20% Down Payment?
Do You Really Need a 20% Down Payment?

August 5, 2025

It is necessary to make a 20% down payment when buying a home? We interviewed…

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Couple with student debt
How Do Student Loans Affect Credit Score?

August 5, 2025

Learn how having student debt can help or harm your credit scores.

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debt consolidation vs bankruptcy
Debt Consolidation vs Bankruptcy for Debt Problems: Which Is Better?

August 6, 2025

Debt consolidation and bankruptcy are very different solutions for debt problems. What's better for you?

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10 Warning Signs of Financial Trouble
10 Warning Signs of Financial Trouble

August 10, 2025

Understanding how to spot the warning signs of financial trouble is the first step toward…

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