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Debt-free living can feel out of reach, but many people achieve it with the right plan and consistent habits. Becoming debt free isn't about perfection; it's about understanding your finances, making intentional decisions, and sticking with a strategy that works for you. The practical steps below can help you build a lasting debt-free lifestyle and take control of your financial future.

Most people need to borrow money at some point, whether for a car, a home, an emergency, or a major purchase. Yet despite how common borrowing is, many of us never learn how to borrow safely or choose the right type of loan. If your credit score isn’t perfect, borrowing can feel even more confusing. The good news: there are safe, responsible ways to borrow money even with less-than-ideal credit. Here’s how to navigate your options and protect yourself in the process.

Every January, New Year’s Resolutioners flock to gyms across the U.S. to get in shape for the new year. Doesn't it make sense to pay as much attention to your financial fitness as your physical fitness?

If you receive a notice about a past-due account or a possible collections debt, it’s smart to verify it before you pay anything. Creditors and collection agencies sometimes make mistakes, accounts get mislabeled, and identity theft can also result in debts being incorrectly linked to your name.

Paying off debt can feel slow and frustrating when your payments barely touch your balance. Many people contribute whatever they can each month toward their debt without a strategy, only to wonder why their debt doesn’t shrink. Minimum payments keep you current, but because they’re mostly applied to interest, your principal balance barely moves.

If you’re in debt and want to pay it off faster, you need a strategy that creates momentum. Because minimum payments barely reduce your balance, debt can feel like it’s not moving.

Cutting expenses doesn’t always mean making big sacrifices. Often, small adjustments to everyday spending can free up money for savings, debt repayment, or future goals. Many common bills—like groceries, utilities, subscriptions, and phone plans—can be reduced with simple changes. If you’re wondering how to cut expenses without hurting your lifestyle, these practical ideas can help lower your monthly costs.

When you receive a debt validation letter, review it for accuracy. If there are no discrepancies, make a payment plan, negotiate a settlement, or seek help.

When you need cash fast, a credit card cash advance can feel like a quick fix. But advances come with higher rates, fees, and interest that starts on day one. If you’re already carrying balances, a cash advance can make it harder to become debt-free. Here’s what to know about cash advances, plus less risky alternatives you can try.

In a perfect world, you’d pay your credit card bill in full every month. The next best thing is to pay the minimum credit card payment on time. But sometimes things don’t go as planned, and people miss credit card payments.