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New Credit Card Rules in 2025: What Higher Late Fees and Swipe Fee Changes Mean for You
In 2025, the credit card landscape is shifting again — and not necessarily in consumers’ favor. Two major regulatory developments are grabbing national attention: the rollback of the $8 late fee cap and renewed debates around swipe fees, which affect both credit card users and small businesses. Here’s what’s changing, what it means for your…
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Are You Eligible for Today’s Best 6–7% Personal Loan Rates?
In mid-2025, personal loan rates have stabilized — and for some borrowers, this means good news. While the average APR for a personal loan is currently around 12.6%, the most qualified borrowers are securing rates as low as 6%–7%. But not everyone qualifies. Here’s what you need to know about how lenders determine personal loan…
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Mortgage Rates at 7% in 2025: Should You Still Buy or Refinance a Home?
With mortgage rates hovering around 7% in mid-2025, many homebuyers and current homeowners are left asking: Is now a good time to buy or refinance? The housing market has shifted dramatically from the ultra-low rates of 2020–2021. While 7% might feel high compared to those years, context and strategy matter more than headlines. Let’s break…
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Should You Use a HELOC to Pay Off Credit Card Debt in 2025? A Detailed Guide
With inflation squeezing household budgets and credit card APRs soaring beyond 20%, many homeowners are eyeing a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) as a lifeline. The appeal? Lower interest rates, flexible access to cash, and potential long-term savings. But turning unsecured debt into debt tied to your home comes with serious trade-offs. This guide…
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EV vs. Hybrid: Which One Saves You More Money in the Long Run?
As gas prices fluctuate and environmental concerns grow, more Americans are considering fuel-efficient vehicles — especially electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids. But when it comes to finances, which is the better investment? Let’s break down the costs, tax incentives, maintenance, fuel savings, and long-term value to help you make the smartest financial decision. Initial Cost:…
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Auto Loan Guide: Current Interest Rates and How to Get the Best Deal in Mid-2025
Looking to finance a car in 2025? You’re not alone — and you’re probably noticing that interest rates aren’t as low as they used to be. But while rates are higher, smart shoppers can still find good deals. This guide breaks down what rates look like in mid-2025, and more importantly, how to get the…
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Americans Are Now Using Buy Now, Pay Later for Groceries — A Warning Sign?
In 2025, Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services are no longer just for splurges on electronics or fashion. More Americans are now using BNPL loans to pay for essential expenses — including groceries. Yes, groceries. With inflation still putting pressure on everyday budgets, shoppers are turning to short-term installment loans just to keep the fridge…
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Major Credit Card Changes in June 2025: What You Need to Know
As of June 2025, credit card issuers and banks are making a series of updates that could impact your wallet. From changing cash back rates to new fees, reward program cuts, and legislative threats to travel perks — there’s a lot happening. If you rely on your credit cards for rewards, everyday spending, or travel…
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The 2025 U.S. Tax Bill: One Big Beautiful Bill Act
In May 22, 2025, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a sweeping new piece of legislation nicknamed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.” The bill aims to reshape tax policy for individuals and families — making key tax cuts permanent, expanding deductions, and introducing new types of savings accounts. But it doesn’t come without controversy.…
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What the U.S. Credit Downgrade Means for Your Personal Finances in 2025
In May 2025, Moody’s Investors Service officially downgraded the credit rating of the United States from its highest rating of Aaa to Aa1. This move may not sound like a big deal to the average consumer — but it could have ripple effects across mortgages, credit cards, student loans, and even retirement savings. If you’re…
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Credit Card Delinquencies Are Rising in 2025 — Here’s What It Means and How to Protect Yourself
Americans across all income levels are falling behind on their credit card payments — and the numbers are climbing fast. According to recent data from the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, credit card delinquencies are on the rise in 2025, reaching levels not seen since the 2008 financial crisis. Whether you’re managing student loans,…
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Student Loan Payments Are Resuming: What It Means and How to Prepare
After a long pause, federal student loan payments are back — and for millions of borrowers, that means it’s time to revisit your loan servicer, update your contact info, and get ready for monthly payments again. The Trump administration has announced the resumption of collections on defaulted student loans and is ending the extended pandemic-era…