History & SocietyScience & TechBiographiesAnimals & NatureGeography & TravelArts & CultureProConGames & QuizzesVideosOn This DayOne Good FactDictionaryCompanionsDemystifiedImage GalleriesInfographicsListsPodcastsSpotlightSummariesTop Questions#WTFactBritannica Kids
Britannica Money
Household Finance

Debt Management

Photo of a snake coiled around money.
Household Finance
Your guide to payday loans, title loans, and other predatory loans
Don’t get trapped in debt.
Photo of a woman giving pocket money to her daughter.
Household Finance
Borrowing from your parents (the Bank of Mom & Dad)
Family lending—the right way.

Recently Posted

Deferred interest: How zero-interest credit cards and promotional rates can cost youAvoid expensive pitfalls.
Credit 101: Hard vs. soft credit checkKnow how credit inquiries affect your score.
What counts as a good credit score?There’s a range.

See All

10 ways the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act protects you
You may have debt, but you also have rights.
6 key strategies for a debt management program
Because debt collection is never any fun.
7 benefits of good credit for your financial well-being
Beyond borrowing money.
7 steps to pay off student loans faster
You can do this.
Bankruptcy, credit counseling, and debtor education: 6 things to know
Bankruptcy is a right, but also a responsibility.
Best rewards credit card: Airline miles, points, or cash back?
The best rewards card is one you’ll use.
Borrowing from your parents (the Bank of Mom & Dad)
Family lending—the right way.
Chapter 7 bankruptcy protection: When financial issues hit a breaking point
The liquidation solution.
Credit 101: Hard vs. soft credit check
Know how credit inquiries affect your score.
Credit card companies: Who’s who and how they make money
Learn about networks vs. issuers.
Credit limits: What they are and how to increase yours
That limit may be there for a reason.
Debt snowball or debt avalanche: Which is smarter for paying off debt?
Prioritize your highest APR.
Deferred interest: How zero-interest credit cards and promotional rates can cost you
Avoid expensive pitfalls.
Facing a financial quagmire? Chapter 13 can help you create a repayment plan
In need of a little breathing room?
Filing for personal bankruptcy: What it is, how to do it, and when to consider it
It could solve some problems but create others.
Good debt vs. bad debt: It’s all about targeting your goals
Some types of debt are better than others.
How debt collection affects your credit score—and steps you can take
A light at the end of the credit report tunnel.
How to freeze your credit—and when to consider it
Worried about identity theft and fraud?
How to use credit cards to improve your credit score
Swipe, pay off, repeat.
Need financial help? Finding and working with a credit counselor
You need a credit counselor who really gets you.
Secured vs. unsecured debt: Understanding the difference and its impact on interest rates
Is your debt backed by collateral?
Small credit agencies that sell your information to service providers
Small players, big impact.
The Biden student loan forgiveness plan is dead. Now what?
Focus on income-driven repayment plans.
The big 3 credit bureaus and the info they gather about you
Know your credit score—and who’s keeping it.
Understanding credit cards: Their purpose, positives, and potential pitfalls
Swipe, tap, or insert—and then pay.
Understanding the Truth in Lending Act (TILA) and Regulation Z
Borrowers need protections.
Unexpected medical bills? The No Surprises Act can keep you out of debt
Medical needs may be unexpected, but bills shouldn’t be.
What counts as a good credit score?
There’s a range.
What everyone should know about debt collection
A road map for the process.
What is a credit balance transfer? How it works and 3 benefits
Boost your score and reduce your interest.
What is a credit score? And is FICO really the only credit score that matters?
Your guide to credit scores.
What is buy now, pay later and should you take advantage of it?
There’s always a catch.
What is credit counseling and how does it work?
Take 7 steps to manage your debt—with expert assistance.
You can consolidate your credit card, student loan, and other debts, but should you?
Fewer hassles but (maybe) more risk.
Your guide to payday loans, title loans, and other predatory loans
Don’t get trapped in debt.
Your guide to student loan forgiveness types
Potential paths to a clean slate.