Debt basics
When to consider credit counseling
Credit counseling is free or low-cost help for people who feel overwhelmed by debt. It's worth knowing what it is and when it might be a good fit for you.
Read Debt basicsWhat debt consolidation means
Debt consolidation means combining multiple debts into one single payment. It can make managing what you owe simpler and sometimes more affordable.
Read Debt basicsSnowball vs avalanche method
Two simple, proven methods — the snowball and the avalanche — can help you pay down debt one step at a time, no matter where you're starting from.
Read Debt basicsHow to make a simple payoff plan
Getting out of debt feels overwhelming, but a simple payoff plan breaks it into steps you can actually follow — one at a time.
Read Debt basicsCan old debt be too old to collect
Old debt doesn't last forever. Learn how time limits on debt collection work and what they mean for you.
Read Debt basicsWhat debt validation means
Debt validation is your right to ask a debt collector to prove that a debt is real, belongs to you, and shows the correct amount before you pay anything.
Read Debt basicsWhat to do if a debt collector calls
If a debt collector calls, you have real legal rights that protect you. This guide walks you through exactly what to do, step by step, in plain words.
Read Debt basicsHow collections affect credit
When you stop paying a debt, it can get sold to a collection agency. Here is what that means for your credit and what you can do about it.
Read Debt basicsWhat to do after missing payments
Missing a payment can feel overwhelming, but it does not have to spiral out of control. Here is a calm, step-by-step plan to help you catch up and move forward.
Read Debt basicsWhat happens when you miss payments
Missing a payment can feel scary, but knowing what happens next helps you take the right steps. Here is a clear look at the process so you can act fast and limit the damage.
Read Debt basicsGood debt vs bad debt
Not all debt works against you. Here is a simple way to tell the difference between debt that can help you and debt that can hurt you.
Read Debt basicsHow debt works, in plain words
Owing money can feel overwhelming, but debt is simpler than it sounds. Here's a calm, clear look at what debt actually is and how it works.
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