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.

Does paying off credit card help credit score
Does Paying Off Your Credit Cards Help Your Credit Score

December 1, 2025

Paying off credit cards can help your credit scores in the long run. However, there are some situations where credit cards can hurt your scores if you're not careful.

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FDR blog setupXmsbudget
How to Set Up a Christmas Budget

December 4, 2025

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

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How to Understand and Conquer Financial Phobia
Fear of Debt

December 1, 2025

Getting around fear of debt can be key to financial thriving. Here’s how to move past it.

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Beyond Coupons: How to Save Money Shopping
Beyond Coupons: How to Save Money Shopping

December 10, 2025

Want to save money shopping? Check out these creative ways…

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What’s a Good Debt-to-Income Ratio?
How to Reduce Your Debt-to-Income Ratio

December 1, 2025

A lower debt-to-income ratio could help you get a loan and manage your bills more easily. Here’s how to get one.

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Is Your Debt Relief Company Legit?
Is Your Debt Relief Company Legit?

December 2, 2025

Wondering if a debt relief company will help or harm? Here’s how to know if you’ve found a legit one.

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Do You Really Need a 20% Down Payment?
Do You Really Need a 20% Down Payment?

December 12, 2025

Don’t buy into the 20% down payment myth. There are other options, and some may be right for you.

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

December 4, 2025

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

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Survey: More Women Than Men Are Stressed About Debt
Survey: More Women Than Men Are Stressed About Debt

December 4, 2025

A survey from Freedom Debt Relief suggests that women tend to feel worse about debt…

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debt consolidation vs bankruptcy
Debt Consolidation vs. Bankruptcy for Debt Problems: Which Is Better?

December 8, 2025

Struggling with debt? We’ll walk you through debt consolidation and bankruptcy to find your best method.

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