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.

Budget family vacation
5 Ways to Take an Affordable Family Vacation This Summer

June 6, 2026

Here's how to take a family vacation without going into debt.

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Ways to Pay Off Wedding Debt
Ways to Pay Off Wedding Debt

May 14, 2026

Don’t let lingering wedding debt fester. Here are four ways to pay it off.

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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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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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The 3-6-9 Emergency Fund
The 3-6-9 Emergency Fund: How Much Do You Really Need?

April 11, 2026

Is three months' bills enough saved? Here’s how to know how much to put in your emergency fund.

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FDR blog setupXmsbudget
How to Set Up a Christmas Budget

June 11, 2026

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

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Person paying bills using calculator and laptop
6 Ways to Work Toward Financial Freedom in 2025

June 15, 2026

You have the power to find financial freedom and set yourself up for success. Here’s how.

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Pros and cons of debt consolidation
Pros and Cons of Debt Consolidation

April 11, 2026

When it’s a good fit, debt consolidation can be great for getting just one monthly debt payment. Here’s how it works.

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

June 15, 2026

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

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