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Debt & Loan Guides

Borrowing money or getting out of debt shouldn't require a finance degree. Our guides explain loans, debt consolidation, and important financial decisions in plain English, helping you understand your options before making a commitment.

Slide 1 of 3: Debt Consolidation Basics

Debt Consolidation Basics

Debt Consolidation Basics

How consolidation really works, what it does to your credit, and when it's worth it.

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Editorial Team

The Authors

  • Deane Biermeier

    Certified Financial Educator

    Deane Biermeier is a seasoned financial writer, editor, and researcher with a reputation for delivering clear, trustworthy, and actionable financial advice. With a professional background that includes home improvement, real estate, and finance, Deane now focuses exclusively on personal finance content at TrustedCompanyReviews.com, where he serves as a key contributor and Senior Editor. He holds a Financial Education Certificate from the University of Minnesota.

    Learn more about Deane Biermeier

  • Brett Holzhauer

    Personal Finance Reporter

    Brett Holzhauer is a senior financial writer and editor with more than a decade of experience covering personal finance, consumer debt, investing, and the U.S. economy. He has written for major national outlets, including <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/brettholzhauer/">Forbes</a> and <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/brett-holzhauer/">CNBC</a>, where his reporting has helped readers navigate everything from market volatility and retirement planning to credit, debt, and consumer behavior.

    Learn more about Brett Holzhauer

  • Tammy McKinney

    Seniors Finance Expert

    Tammy McKinney, RN, is a registered nurse and experienced writer specializing in healthcare and personal finance topics. With a strong clinical background spanning acute care, long-term care, and hospice and palliative services, she brings real-world insight to complex health and money decisions. Tammy is known for translating medical and financial concepts into clear, compassionate guidance, helping readers make informed choices about senior health, wellness, and financial well-being.

    Learn more about Tammy McKinney

  • Chris Teague

    Financial Reporter

    Chris Teague is an experienced product reviewer, journalist, and host with a professional background in banking, technology, and automotive media. After earning his MBA, Chris began his career as a bank analyst and consultant, contributing to tech and finance publications. But his long-standing passion for cars pulled him in a different direction, that eventually led him to also become a respected voice in the automotive world.

    Learn more about Chris Teague

  • Nick Gerhardt

    Home Improvement Expert

    Nick Gerhardt is a seasoned writer with more than seven years of experience covering personal finance, home improvement, and consumer products. At TrustedCompanyReviews.com, Nick specializes in reviewing financial services and home-related products with a focus on clarity, accuracy, and real-world value. His work helps readers understand how everyday decisions, like choosing a lender or a security system, can impact their budget, their home, and their peace of mind.

    Learn more about Nick Gerhardt
Meet the Team

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Slide 1 of 3: Personal Loan Comparisons & Reviews

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Personal Loan Comparisons & Reviews

Side-by-side looks at the lenders and marketplaces people ask about most.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do debt consolidation loans hurt my credit?

Debt consolidation loans can temporarily lower your credit score due to a hard inquiry and opening a new account. However, reducing credit card balances and making consistent, on-time payments can improve your score over time. Learn more in our guide to how debt consolidation affects your credit.

Is debt consolidation the same as debt settlement?

No. Debt consolidation combines multiple debts into one payment, often through a loan or structured repayment plan. Debt settlement involves negotiating with creditors to pay less than you owe. Learn about consolidation options in our guide to choosing the right debt consolidation plan.

Can I still buy a house if I'm consolidating debt?

Yes, you can buy a house while consolidating debt. Lower monthly payments may improve your debt-to-income ratio and mortgage eligibility. However, a new loan can temporarily affect your credit score, so timing matters. Learn more in our guide to how debt consolidation affects buying a home.

How can I avoid taking on too much debt when buying a used car?

Set a realistic budget, compare financing offers, and avoid unnecessarily long loan terms. Remember to account for insurance, maintenance, and other ownership costs beyond your monthly payment. Learn more in our article on buying a used car without overextending your finances by personal finance journalist Brett Holzhauer.

Should I get a personal loan or use a credit card?

A balance transfer credit card may be better for smaller debts you can repay during a low-interest promotional period. Personal loans offer fixed payments and can consolidate multiple types of debt. Explore the differences in our article comparing balance transfers and personal loans by financial writer and former bank analyst Chris Teague.

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