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.

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

March 20, 2026

Student loans could have an impact on your credit score for better and worse. Here’s the scoop.

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10 Warning Signs of Financial Trouble
Warning Signs of Financial Trouble

March 20, 2026

Are you headed toward financial trouble? Read on to be aware and stop the bleeding.

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What to Do When Your Spouse Loses Their Job
What to Do When Your Spouse Loses Their Job: A Complete Guide

March 20, 2026

Losing a job could throw your spouse and finances for a loop. Here’s how to cope.

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10 Tips for Hosting Thanksgiving on a Budget
10 Tips for Hosting a Holiday Meal on a Budget

March 22, 2026

Holiday food doesn't have to mean overspending. Learn how to save money here.

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5 Tips for Talking to Your Partner about Debt
How Couples Get Out of Debt

March 23, 2026

Tackling debt together could help you financially—and in communicating as a couple. Read on for tips.

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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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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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How to Avoid Debt as a First-Year Homeowner
How to Avoid Debt as a First-Year Homeowner

April 18, 2026

Don’t fall victim to rookie mistakes. Here’s how to steer clear of debt in your first year of owning a home.

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How to Remove Old Debt From Your Credit Report
How to Remove Old Debt From Your Credit Report

April 13, 2026

Old debts can linger for years on your credit report. Here's when they should fall off—and what to do if they don't.

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Should I Sell My House to Pay Off Debt?
Should I Sell My House to Pay Off Debt?

April 13, 2026

Own a home and have equity? Find out if selling your house to pay off debt is a good idea.

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