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Brian Acton Bio

Brian Acton

Brian Acton is a seasoned personal finance journalist at BestMoney.com who specializes in loans and debt consolidation. His work has appeared in The Wall Street Journal, TIME, USA Today, MarketWatch, Inc. Magazine, HuffPost, and other notable outlets.

Posts by Brian Acton

Pros and Cons of Personal Loans: What to Know Before You Borrow

Personal loans offer a straightforward way to borrow money for all kinds of reasons.
Read MoreAug 20, 2025
A man and a woman discussing the pros and cons of personal loans.

How Much of a Personal Loan Can I Get?

Personal loans typically range from $1,000 to $100,000, but the amount you can actually get depends on your financial situation.
Read MoreAug 20, 2025
A woman learning about how much of a personal loan she can get.

Should You Use a Home Equity Loan to Consolidate Debt?

Thinking about using your home equity to consolidate debt? Home equity loans and HELOCs may offer lower interest and simplified payments — but they also come with serious risks, including putting your home on the line.
Read MoreAug 11, 2025
Should You Use a Home Equity Loan to Consolidate Debt

How to Get Out of Debt Fast in 2025: A Step-by-Step Guide

Whether you’re struggling with high-interest credit cards or personal loans, 2025 is the year to take control. If you're searching for how to get out of debt fast, this guide breaks down 9 powerful, expert-backed strategies — from DIY budgeting to smart consolidation. No fluff, just real solutions that work.
Read MoreAug 11, 2025
What Is the Correct Way to Pay off Debt?

How to Avoid Personal Loan Scams

Personal loans can provide money for many purposes, from debt consolidation and paying off bills to major home renovations or emergency expenses.
Read MoreAug 4, 2025
A man who is learning about how to avoid personal loan scams.

What Documents Do You Need to Apply for a Personal Loan?

When you apply for a personal loan, the lender will ask you for several documents to confirm your identity and collect information about your finances.
Read MoreJul 31, 2025
A woman organizing the documents she needs to apply for a personal loan.

Secured Personal Loans: What They Are and How They Work

Secured personal loans require collateral but offer easier approval and lower rates than unsecured loans. You risk losing your collateral if you default. Best for borrowers with poor credit seeking competitive rates.
Read MoreJul 30, 2025
A woman talking to a financial expert about how a secured personal loan works.

Do You Have to Pay Taxes on Personal Loans?

Personal loans typically don't create tax complications since they're borrowed money that must be repaid.
Read MoreJul 7, 2025
A financial professional talking about whether you have to pay taxes on personal loans.

What Is an Installment Loan and How Does It Work?

Installment loans are one of the most common types of borrowing, and for good reason.
Read MoreJul 7, 2025
A man learning about installment loans and how it works.

Personal Loans: What You Need to Know Before Borrowing

Personal loans offer quick access to funds with fixed interest rates, predictable monthly payments, and flexible use for debt consolidation, home improvements, or major expenses.
Read MoreJul 6, 2025
A woman looking for a personal loan chatting to a financial expert.
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