Consumer Advice - Page 2 of 2

We Aren’t Just for People in Trouble!

February 26, 2022

by Linda Jacob, AFC®, CFP®, Consumer Credit of Des Moines

If you are able to make your monthly payments on your credit cards, but the balances just don’t seem to
go anywhere, perhaps a Debt Management Plan (DMP) is right for you. You do not have to be late on
your payments to qualify for a DMP. But if you do qualify, you will be eligible for concessions from your
creditors such as lower interest rates. Depending upon your situation, you may also be making smaller
monthly payments than you currently are. [Read more…] about We Aren’t Just for People in Trouble!

Still Experiencing COVID-19 Related Financial Hardships?

February 25, 2022

Financial Counseling Association of America (FCAA) member credit counseling agencies offer debt relief programs to assist consumers experiencing financial hardships related to COVID-19 pandemic.

COVID-19 financial hardships still loom large. Without relief through government aid, consumers are likely relying more and more on credit cards to help manage household expenses. Added to that is the concern that it may become more difficult for consumers to pay the bills when deferments offered by credit cards issuers end.

Now more than ever, consumers need to be aware of their options when it comes to seeking help repaying their unsecured credit card debts. [Read more…] about Still Experiencing COVID-19 Related Financial Hardships?

How to Manage Your Credit Card Bills, Which Experts Say Are Late More Often

July 18, 2019

by Ann Carrns

Even with a strong economy, a growing number of people are having trouble paying their credit card bills.
Late credit card payments, while still low, have been ticking upward for the past two years, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York reported in May. Card delinquencies have been rising for borrowers under 30, in particular, but also for borrowers in their 60s, the New York Fed said.

What to do if a Bill is sent to a Collection Agency

June 19, 2019

We all know we’re supposed to pay our bills on time. But even the most responsible folks can somehow miss a payment. Addresses change, memories lapse and sometimes hard times hit.

3 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Borrow Student Loans

June 6, 2019

by Cody Cobb

Here’s what prospective students should consider before borrowing money to pay for college.

If you’re getting ready to apply to college and don’t have the funds to pay for your entire education, you might think that taking out student loans is a necessary evil.