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.

How Does a 401(k) Loan Work for Paying off Debt?
How Does a 401(k) Loan Work for Paying off Debt?

March 4, 2026

Struggling with high-interest debt? A 401(k) loan could help you pay it off—but know the risks.

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

March 23, 2026

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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How to Create a Debt Snowball Method Spreadsheet for Free
How to Create a Debt Snowball Method Spreadsheet for Free

May 4, 2026

Want to get rid of your debt? Learn how to create a debt snowball method spreadsheet without spending a dime.

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The Fed Cut Rates in December: Will Your Credit Card Get Less Expensive?
The Fed Cut Rates in December: Will Your Credit Card Get Less Expensive?

May 3, 2026

The Fed slashed its benchmark interest rate in December. Here's what it could mean for credit card debt.

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What Happens to Your Debt When You Go to Jail
What Happens to Your Debt When You Go to Jail?

March 4, 2026

Just because you're in jail doesn't mean your debt disappears. Here's what you need to know.

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

April 1, 2026

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

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Open Enrollment 2021: Do You Need an HSA?
Do You Need an HSA?

May 12, 2026

An HSA could lower your taxes while helping you avoid medical debt. Read on to see if an HSA is right for you.

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How to Remove Old Debt From Your Credit Report
How to Remove Old Debt From Your Credit Report

April 13, 2026

Old debts can linger for years on your credit report. Here's when they should fall off—and what to do if they don't.

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Buy Now, Pay Later Credit Reporting: How Does It Work?
Buy Now, Pay Later Credit Reporting: How Does It Work?

April 4, 2026

Buy now, pay later plans make it easy to pay for stuff over time. But what are they doing to your credit?

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

March 17, 2026

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

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