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Carissa Rawson bio

Carissa Rawson

Carissa Rawson is a personal finance expert at BestMoney.com, focusing on loans and money management. Her writing has been featured in Forbes, Business Insider, and USA Today. In addition to her editorial work, Carissa speaks at major travel events and offers guidance on optimizing personal finances.

Posts by Carissa Rawson

Navigating Interest Rates for Business Loans

Understanding business loan interest rates can make the difference between securing affordable financing and paying thousands more than necessary.
Read MoreSep 10, 2026
A man speaking to a financial expert about navigating interest rates for business loans.

How to Prepare a Business Loan Application That Gets Approved

Without a solid business loan application, it can be difficult to convince lenders of your business management skills and growth capabilities.
Read MoreAug 27, 2026
How to Prepare a Business Loan Application That Gets Approved

This Is the Average Tax Refund by State: How Does Yours Stack Up?

According to the latest IRS filing season statistics, the national average federal tax refund for 2025 is $2,939, up 2.4% from 2024's average of $2,869.
Read MoreAug 24, 2026
Average Tax Refund by State: How Does Yours Stack Up?

Business Owner's Guide to Payroll Tax Debt and Trust Fund Penalties

Owning a business and behind on payroll taxes? Here's what to do next.
Read MoreAug 24, 2026
A business owner learning about payroll tax debt and trust fund penalties.

How Gig Workers and Independent Contractors Can Get Tax Relief

IRS relief options include payment plans, penalty abatement, and Offers in Compromise. Prevent future issues by setting aside 25-30% of income and making quarterly estimated payments.
Read MoreAug 24, 2026
A gig worker figuring out how to get tax relief and avoid big tax bills.

Tax Relief After Divorce or Death of a Spouse: Unique Tax Issues, Deadlines & Relief Options

Going through a divorce or losing a spouse? Here's how to handle joint tax debt and protect yourself from your ex's or deceased spouse's tax liabilities.
Read MoreAug 24, 2026
A woman sitting at a table wondering how she can get tax relief after her divorce.

When to Use an Offer in Compromise vs. Bankruptcy for Tax Debt Relief

Drowning in tax debt? You've likely considered an IRS Offer in Compromise (OIC) or Bankruptcy.
Read MoreAug 24, 2026
A man sitting at his desk deciding between an OIC or bankruptcy

State Tax Debt Relief: What to Do When You Owe Back Taxes to Your State

Relief options include payment plans, settlements, penalty abatement, and hardship status, but vary by state. Contact your state agency immediately when you receive a notice.
Read MoreAug 24, 2026
A man sitting at his desk and learning about state tax debt relief.

What Is Invoice Financing and How Can It Help Your Business?

Invoice financing gives businesses fast access to cash by turning unpaid invoices into working capital.
Read MoreAug 24, 2026
A woman learning about invoice financing.

11 Tax Scams to Watch for in 2026

Tax season is complex enough without worrying about scammers trying to exploit the system.
Read MoreAug 4, 2026
A young couple learning about tax scams to watch out for in 2025.
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