author

Kailey Hagen, CFP

Contributing writer

Kailey is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Professional and has been writing about finance, including credit cards, banking, insurance, and retirement, since 2013. Her advice has been featured in major personal finance publications.

What Happens If You Don't Pay Collections
What Happens If You Don't Pay Collections?

May 2, 2026

Debt in collections doesn't just disappear if you ignore it. Here are some of the potential consequences—and what to do.

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Which Debt Should I Pay Off First?
Which Debt Should I Pay Off First?

May 3, 2026

Juggling multiple debts gets easier with a solid repayment plan. Here's how to prioritize your debts.

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Does It Hurt Your Credit to Close a Credit Card?
Does It Hurt Your Credit to Close a Credit Card? Here's What Happens

October 25, 2026

Closing a credit card could lower your credit score. We’ll show you the pros and cons so you can make a good decision.

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How to open a bank account no creditor can touch
How to Open a Bank Account That No Creditor Can Touch

March 7, 2026

There are four tactics for protecting deposits from creditors.

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What Can Debt Collectors Do
What Can Debt Collectors Do?

October 25, 2026

Debt collectors have to follow laws when they contact you. Here's what they can and can’t do, and how to follow up.

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Access to Credit: Predatory Lending and Payday Loans
Access to Credit: Predatory Lending and Payday Loans

October 25, 2026

If you live in an underbanked neighborhood, you might think that predatory loans are your…

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How much debt can be forgiven with debt settlement
How Much Can Debt Settlement Reduce My Total Debt?

March 7, 2026

Got too much debt? Here’s how debt settlement might help.

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Things to Do ASAP When You're Overwhelmed with Debt
3 Things to Do ASAP When You're Overwhelmed with Debt

October 28, 2026

Getting out of debt is possible. Here's a step-by-step guide to taking control of your finances.

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