Jul 11, 2025
How Can I Prioritize Expenses When Money Is Tight?
In these difficult financial times, managing your expenses wisely is crucial. How can I prioritize expenses when money is limited? Concentrate on essential costs, be cautious with discretionary spending, and regularly review your budget. Start by asking yourself: What are my absolute necessities? Using the “needs vs. wants” approach helps ensure your vital expenses are covered, so you can allocate…
Read moreJul 5, 2025
How to Pay for Student Loans While Paying Credit Card Debt
If you’re feeling stretched thin trying to pay down credit card debt while staying current on student loans, you’re not alone. The key to managing both is finding practical ways to free up cash, whether by cutting unnecessary expenses, boosting your income, or lowering your interest rates. With the right strategies, it’s possible to generate extra money each month, prioritize…
Read moreJul 4, 2025
How do I cope with the mental toll of financial problems?
Feeling overwhelmed by money problems? You’re not alone. With U.S. household debt reaching $ 18.20 trillion dollars1, financial stress is affecting more Americans than ever before. Nearly 50% of adults report feeling stressed or anxious about their financial situation, according to a 2024 survey from Motley Fool Money. Key Insight Coping with the mental toll of financial problems involves a…
Read moreJun 24, 2025
How Can I Lower My Credit Card Interest Without Hurting My Credit Score?
You can lower your credit card interest without hurting your credit score by negotiating a reduced interest rate with your credit card company, making extra payments, which allows you to reduce your balance sooner and pay less interest overall, or working with a nonprofit credit counseling agency like American Consumer Credit Counseling (ACCC). A structured approach, such as a Debt…
Read moreJun 17, 2025
What Should Couples Know About Credit, Debt & Mortgages When Buying a Home?
When buying a home as a couple, your credit scores, income, and existing debt all play a major role in mortgage approval and loan terms. Lenders review each person’s credit separately, use the lower score for qualification, and consider your combined debt-to-income ratio if applying jointly. How to Financially Prepare for Buying a Home Together Whether you’re applying for a…
Read moreJun 11, 2025
Affordable Ways to Celebrate Juneteenth Without Going Into Debt
Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th, marks the day in 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, were finally informed of their freedom, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. This pivotal moment in history is a celebration of freedom, resilience, and cultural heritage. Whether you’re honoring Juneteenth through reflection, community engagement, or cultural expression, remember: meaningful…
Read moreJun 5, 2025
Budget Friendly Father’s Day Activities
Did you know that, according to the National Retail Federation’s 2025 Father’s Day Spending Survey, Americans are expected to spend $24 billion on Father’s Day this year? The survey also revealed that the top three gifts for dads are greeting cards, clothing, and special outings. This trend highlights the value of heartfelt gestures, practical gifts, and quality experiences. A budget…
Read moreJun 4, 2025
Credit Card Debt & Self-Care Balance
Are you feeling the strain of summer expenses? You’re not alone. It can be challenging to maintain both mental and financial wellness, especially during a season filled with vacations, barbecues, and social pressures to spend. Therefore, you are more likely to lean on credit cards to cover up your expenses. So, how can you strike a balance between credit card…
Read moreMay 28, 2025
What To Expect From A Debt Management Plan
In 2024, American Consumer Credit Counseling clients paid off around $191,257,429.83 in debt! Debt Management Plans help people regain control of their financial lives by consolidating their debts into a single, manageable monthly payment. Here’s what you can expect when you enroll in a Debt Management Plan (DMP) with American Consumer Credit Counseling (ACCC). What to Expect from a Debt…
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