What is a cash-out refinance? Here’s what you need to know
A cash-out refi lets you tap your home equity in cash. See if it’s right for you.
7 min read
Jan 29, 2026
Allison Martin
Contributor, Personal Finance
EXPERTISE
- Personal finance
- Taxes
- Mortgages
- Auto loans
- Small business loans
EDUCATION
- Bachelor’s, University of South Florida
- Master’s, University of South Florida
Allison Martin is a contributor to Bankrate covering personal finance, including taxes, mortgages, auto loans and small business loans. Martin’s work began over 10 years ago as a digital content strategist, and she’s since been published in several leading outlets, including The Wall Street Journal, MSN Money, MoneyTalksNews, Investopedia, Experian and Credit.com. Martin, a Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFE), also shares her passion for financial literacy and entrepreneurship with others through interactive workshops and programs.
Allison's latest articles
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Bank of America personal loan alternatives
Bank of America does not offer personal loans.
5 min read Jan 07, 2026 -
Second-chance car loans: What they are and how to get one
Second-chance car loans come at a high price.
5 min read Dec 17, 2025 -
How to build credit to buy a car: 4 tips
It will take time, but here’s what to do for a better shot at a lower car loan rate. And what to do if you can’t wait.
4 min read Dec 17, 2025 -
How to get a lower car payment: The 6 best strategies
If you need space in your budget, here’s how to get a lower car payment.
5 min read Sep 23, 2025 -
7 personal loan mistakes that could cost you money
Avoid these seven common personal loan mistakes to save.
6 min read Sep 22, 2025 -
Where to get a business loan
You can get small business loans from banks, online lenders and even nonprofits.
5 min read Sep 16, 2025 -
How your mortgage affects your credit score
Does it ding it? Increase it? It can do both. Here’s what to expect.
4 min read Sep 09, 2025