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Why should you beware of subprime credit cards?

If you have recently filed for bankruptcy in Maryland, you know first-hand the liberating feeling of being able to start fresh with a clean financial slate. It is no surprise, however, that while much of your debt has been wiped clean, your credit score may have taken a hit. Many people seek different opportunities to rebuild their credit, all while trying not to accumulate more debt.  Some financial planners suggest credit cards as an option to rebuild your credit and help you get back on your

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How can you avoid falling back into debt?

For Maryland residents with credit card debt, it is important to figure out how to avoid future debt. After all, getting out of debt does not help if you fall back into it again soon after. Today we will look at some of the ways you can keep from falling into old pitfalls.  The Balance discusses various ways to avoid credit card debt. The first tip is some of the most common advice given, and it involves only charging what you can afford. Do not use

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Credit card problems can surface unexpectedly

A lot of people believe that those who run into serious credit card debt are simply irresponsible or incapable of handling financial matters properly. However, this is unfair to many people who are buried in credit card debt, and there are a lot of reasons why this serious problem can arise. In many cases, people never saw these significant problems coming and they get to a point where they can never pay off the debt they owe. This can be extremely stressful, and regrettably, there

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Can you avoid debt this holiday season and still use credit?

As the holiday season approaches, most Americans spend countless dollars on their loved ones. Between the gifts and holiday plans throughout Maryland, it is easy to rely on your credit card. Dependence on credit, however, can lead to serious credit card bills in the future. Credit does not have to be off-limit this holiday season. In fact, you can still use credit cards strategically to reap the benefits without stacking on more debt. Credit Karma suggests using credit card awards to minimize holiday debt and

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Avoid going into debt this holiday season

The holiday shopping season seems to descend on Maryland faster every year. While heaping love and affection on friends and family members through gift-giving, consumers should make sure they do not drive themselves into debt in the process. To help, USA Today offers tips on staying out of credit card debt during the holiday season. There is no need to start the new year with financial regrets. Use apps Plenty of free apps help shoppers find the best prices and save money. Researching such apps

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What are your options when a collection agency purchases your credit card debt?

At times, credit card debt can get out of hand. If you are behind on your credit payments and a collection agency purchases your debt, you will likely receive calls to settle your debt. The federal government and Maryland do protect citizens against harassment from debt collectors. However, many still choose to consumers would still consider debt collection agencies to be near predatory in their tactics. When debt collectors begin to call, there are options that a consumer can take. Nerd Wallet warns that you

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Getting an early handle on credit card debt

As a recent graduate or young professional, you have much to look forward to in life. However, when you accumulate significant credit card debt in your 20s, you may contemplate your options for seeking financial relief from such a substantial burden. Whether due to a lack of funds while transitioning from being a student or misinformed financial habits, credit card debt can sneak up on you quickly. Credit cards offer many perks, including financial rewards, security, the opportunity to build up your credit score and

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What is the statute of limitations on debt?

When you fail to make a payment on a credit card, your account goes into default. This means that you are no longer current and now you have an overdue debt. Your creditor can take you to court to make you pay the debt. However, there is something called the statute of limitations in Maryland, which Money Management International explains is the time limit on how long the creditor has to take you to court for a debt. Once the statute of limitations runs out,

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What are some bad spending habits I should avoid?

If you’re experiencing financial issues, you may be thinking about altering your behavior. In some cases, a person’s spending habits have a direct impact on their financial stability, sometimes leading to insolvency. The Balance offers examples of poor spending habits, as well as tips on how to avoid them. Relying on credit Do you use credit for everyday purchases like food and fuel? If so it’s time to stop right now. Unless you pay off your credit card in full each month, you’re actually increasing

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Other benefits of eliminating credit card debt

Every day, people across the country spend more than they can afford to when using their credit cards. However, this spending is not always an example of irresponsible behavior. Some people find themselves in a position where they have no choice but to rack up credit card debt in order to buy groceries for their kids or pay bills. Unfortunately, this can lead to even greater financial hardships down the road and some people do not realize just how far they can fall behind due

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