Personal Finance
Use Bankrate's advice and tools to help make all of your personal finance decisions.
Latest Articles
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Life after debt: 5 side effects of debt freedom
Debt freedom means the freedom to prioritize your own dreams.
6 min read Aug 25, 2025 -
What is the Credit Repair Organizations Act?
The Credit Repair Organizations Act regulates credit repair companies.
7 min read Aug 25, 2025 -
What do the three major credit bureaus do?
Equifax, Experian and TransUnion are the three major credit bureaus.
7 min read Aug 25, 2025 -
What is a pay-for-delete letter?
A pay-for-delete letter is one way to try to improve your credit score.
6 min read Aug 24, 2025 -
What is a lien and how do you avoid one?
There are several types of liens. If one is hanging over you, don’t take it lightly.
7 min read Aug 24, 2025 -
Relying on your support network during debt payoff
Ways loved ones can help with debt payoff — even without lending money.
4 min read Aug 22, 2025 -
Pros and cons of debt consolidation: Is it a good idea?
Weigh the pros and cons to decide if debt consolidation is right for your situation.
6 min read Aug 20, 2025 -
When to use a personal loan to pay off credit card debt
Taking on still more debt in pursuit of a goal can sometimes make sense. Here’s when.
5 min read Aug 20, 2025 -
Current credit card interest rates
View current credit card rates based on Bankrate.com’s weekly national survey of large banks and thrifts.
5 min read Aug 20, 2025 -
How to apply for a credit card and get approved
Learn everything you need to do to apply for a credit card and increase your chances of approval.
9 min read Aug 18, 2025