author

Rebecca Lake

Contributing Author

Rebecca Lake has over a decade of experience as a money expert, researching and writing hundreds of articles on retirement, investing, budgeting, banking, loans, saving money, and more. She has been published in over 20 online finance publications, including SoFi, Forbes, Chime, CreditCards.com, Investopedia, SmartAsset, Nerdwallet, Credit Sesame, LendingTree, and more.

 How to Be Debt-Free by Retirement
Debt-Free Retirement

February 28, 2026

Addressing your debt now can help you enjoy a debt-free retirement when you're ready to leave the 9-to-5 behind.

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Can You Go to Jail for Medical Debt?
Can You Go to Jail for Medical Debt?

May 4, 2026

Unpaid medical bills don't land you in jail, but you could get sued. Learn what can happen, and what to do about it.

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Raise Credit Score by 100 Points Overnight
Can You Raise Your Credit Score 100 Points Overnight?

August 13, 2026

You might be surprised at how quickly your credit score could jump. Here are a few moves that could get you big points fast.

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How to Prepare for a Recession If You are Already Struggling
How to Prepare for a Recession If You Are Already Struggling

August 13, 2026

How do you prepare for a recession when you already struggle financially? Even in tough…

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How Does Student Loan Forbearance Affect Your Credit Score?
How Does Student Loan Forbearance Affect Your Credit Score?

August 13, 2026

Student loan forbearance differs for federal and private loans. Here’s how both can affect your credit score.

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How to save the most money when consolidating debt
How to Save the Most Money When Consolidating Debt

March 17, 2026

Debt consolidation could help you pay down what you owe faster and potentially keep more money in your pocket.

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What happens if you stop paying your bills?
What Happens If You Stop Paying Your Bills?

March 1, 2026

Financial hardship can put you behind on bills and spell trouble for your credit. Here's how to get back on track.

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How Your Credit Score Is Determined
The Good, Fair, and Poor: How Your Credit Score Is Determined

August 13, 2026

Payment history is the biggest credit score factor. But what else figures in? Get the details you need here.

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Can You Settle a Deficiency Balance After Auto Repossession
Can You Settle a Deficiency Balance After Auto Repossession?

May 1, 2026

Repossession can leave you without a car, but you don't have to be stuck with leftover debt from a deficiency balance.

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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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