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.

Holiday Debt: 6 Tips to Obliterate What You Owe
Holiday Debt: 6 Tips to Obliterate What You Owe

April 14, 2026

Don't let holiday debt drag on. Here's how to wipe out that debt and avoid a repeat.

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What Is High-Interest Debt?
What Is High-Interest Debt?

April 18, 2026

High-interest debt can cost you a lot, quickly. Here’s what to do about it.

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What’s the Difference Between Furlough, Layoff, and Termination?
Furlough vs Layoff vs Termination: What's the Difference?

April 20, 2026

Furlough, layoff, and termination may sound the same, but the differences are key. Here’s what they mean.

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What Do Fed Rate Cuts Mean? Will My Loan Get Cheaper?
What Do Fed Rate Cuts Mean? Will My Loan Get Cheaper?

May 1, 2026

Wondering what the Fed's rate cuts have to do with your loans? Here's the scoop.

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Can Medical Bills Go To Collections?
Can Medical Bills Go To Collections?

May 1, 2026

Unpaid medical bills can go to collections. Here's how to handle it.

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Can I Use My Roth IRA to Pay Off Debt?
Can I Use My Roth IRA to Pay Off Debt?

May 2, 2026

Roth IRAs give you a lot of flexibility with your retirement money. But should you use yours to get out of debt?

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The Fed Cut Rates in December: Will Your Credit Card Get Less Expensive?
The Fed Cut Rates in December: Will Your Credit Card Get Less Expensive?

May 3, 2026

The Fed slashed its benchmark interest rate in December. Here's what it could mean for credit card debt.

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How to Create a Debt Snowball Method Spreadsheet for Free
How to Create a Debt Snowball Method Spreadsheet for Free

May 4, 2026

Want to get rid of your debt? Learn how to create a debt snowball method spreadsheet without spending a dime.

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Cutting These 5 Expenses Could Help You Pay Off Debt
Cutting These 5 Expenses Could Help You Pay Off Debt

May 12, 2026

You can’t slash every expense, but here are a few that may be easier to cut than you’d expect.

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Open Enrollment 2021: Do You Need an HSA?
Do You Need an HSA?

May 12, 2026

An HSA could lower your taxes while helping you avoid medical debt. Read on to see if an HSA is right for you.

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