Credit & Debt
Build credit and crush debt
The Debt Avalanche: Pay Highest Interest First
Pay minimums on all debts, throw extra money at the highest interest rate — saves the most in interest.
The Debt Snowball: Pay Smallest Balance First
Pay smallest balance first for quick wins — the motivation boost keeps you going.
Transfer Credit Card Balances to a 0% APR Card
Move high-interest balances to a 0% APR card — pay zero interest for 12-21 months.
Raise Your Credit Score 50 Points in 90 Days
Dispute errors, lower utilization, become an authorized user — 50-100 point jump in 3 months.
Never Pay Only the Minimum on Credit Cards
Paying only the minimum on a $5,000 balance takes 14+ years and costs $4,500 in interest.
Use the 30% Credit Utilization Rule
Keep credit card balances below 30% of your limit — above 30% tanks your score.
Consolidate Debt with a Personal Loan
Replace 5 credit cards at 22% with one personal loan at 8-12% — lower rate, one payment, fixed payoff date.
Check Your Credit Report for Free Every Year
20% of credit reports contain errors. Free annual check catches mistakes that cost you money.
Negotiate a Lower Interest Rate on Your Credit Card
Call your credit card company and ask for a lower APR — works 70% of the time.
Stop Using Credit Cards While Paying Off Debt
Switch to cash or debit while paying off credit cards — you can't fill a bathtub with the drain open.
Pay Credit Card Bills Twice a Month
Pay every two weeks instead of monthly — reduces average daily balance and saves on interest.
Use Windfalls to Crush Debt: Tax Refunds, Bonuses, Gifts
Put at least 50% of any windfall money toward your highest-interest debt.
Freeze Your Credit to Prevent Identity Theft
Freezing your credit at all 3 bureaus is free and prevents anyone from opening accounts in your name.
Understand the Difference Between Good Debt and Bad Debt
Mortgage and student loans build assets. Credit card debt destroys wealth. Know the difference.