Zero Debt The Ultimate Guide to Financial Freedom 2nd Edition Lynnette Khalfani Cox 2

I Debticate Myself To Being Debt Free Worksheet

Many of you have asked for a copy of the “I Debticate Myself to Being Debt Free Worksheet” which first appeared in the first edition of Zero Debt: The Ultimate Guide to Financial Freedom.  Here is a copy that you can download to your computer, along with a few of the other forms that are […]

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car repossessed collection agency

My Car Was Repossessed but the Collection Agency Still Wants More Money — What Should I Do?

Car Repossessed Collection Agency: If your car was repossessed—even voluntarily—you might assume your financial obligation ends there. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Often, the lender sells the car at auction for less than what you owed, and a collection agency may then come after you for the difference, also known as a “deficiency balance.”

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A person in a striped shirt and jeans is shown with their empty pockets turned out and hands extended, suggesting they have no money, likely due to student loans.

I Have a Student Loan With a Company. What Can I Do To Keep This Company From Garnishing My Check and Taking My Federal and State Taxes?

Q: I Have a Student Loan With a Company. What Can I Do To Keep This Company From Garnishing My Check and Taking My Federal and State Taxes? A: It sounds like your student loan is obviously delinquent, and possibly already in default status. When you have such overdue loans, you are subject wage garnishments

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Stacks of hundred-dollar bills with the word "REFUND" in large red letters on top, signifying a generous tax refund.

Should I Use My Tax Refund Check to Pay Off All of My Credit Card Debt?

Question: One of my readers wanted to know whether or not they should use their tax money to pay off all of their debt, or perhaps some of their debt and put the other half in savings. Answer: Basically, I think it’s not a good idea to use an income‑tax refund check exclusively to pay

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A person smiling while holding store credit in one hand and a black shopping bag in the other.

How Store Credit Cards Impact Your Credit Score

Q: I am a student at Southeast Missouri State University. About 10 months ago I opened my first student credit card. I eventually got my credit score to 728. In October, I opened an account with a jewelry store in order to buy an engagement ring. I’ve noticed a huge dive in my credit score

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department store cards

Can I Close a Department Store Credit Card Without Hurting My FICO Score?

If you’re managing several major credit cards along with department store credit cards and wondering if you should start closing a few, you’re not alone. Many consumers want to streamline their credit without negatively impacting their FICO score—especially if they’re in the 700–720 range. So, can you close a department store credit card without hurting

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Collection Agency

When a Collection Agency Wants More Than You Can Afford

If you’re dealing with a collection agency that’s demanding more than you can realistically pay, you’re not alone—and you have options. Whether the collector is asking for a lump sum or a payment plan that’s beyond your reach, it’s important to approach the situation strategically. This guide walks you through how to negotiate effectively, protect

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