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.

Money Tips for Recent College Grads: Recession Edition
Money Tips for Recent College Grads: Inflation Edition

December 1, 2025

Are you a 2025 college grad hoping to thrive in the midst of inflation?…

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

December 18, 2025

Paying off your credit cards? Congrats! Here’s how that could impact your credit score for the better.

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What to Do When Your Spouse Loses Their Job
What to Do When Your Spouse Loses Their Job: A Complete Guide

December 5, 2025

Losing a job could throw your spouse and finances for a loop. Here’s how to cope.

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Is Severance Pay Taxable? How Job Loss Affects Your Taxes
How Is Severance Pay Taxed: 2025 Guide

December 8, 2025

Laid-off workers get taxed on severance pay, adding insult to injury after a job loss. Here’s how it might impact you.

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

December 15, 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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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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What Is Zero-Based Budgeting?

December 10, 2025

There’s one time when it’s good to end up with no more money: When you follow a zero-based budget. Learn more.

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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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Food Prices Spike: How to Update Your Grocery Budget
How to Budget for Groceries

December 4, 2025

Food costs are up. Here’s how to budget for groceries at a time when prices are spiking.

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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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