We earn commissions from brands listed on this site, which influences how listings are presented.
Jamela Adam

Jamela Adam

Banking & Credit Expert

Jamela Adam is a Financial Copywriter for Bestmoney.com, specializing in content for fintechs, finance SaaS companies, and wealth management brands. She earned her BBA from the University of Southern California and is a Certified Financial Education Instructor. With over 4 years of experience writing for Forbes, Investopedia, Yahoo Finance, and U.S. News, Adam is a trusted source for all things banking and finance.

Posts by Jamela Adam

Best Renters Insurance For Pet Owners In 2026

If you rent and share your home with a dog or cat, you're in the right place to choose a policy. This comparison chart lines up renters insurers that work well for pet owners so you can pick with confidence.
Read MoreSep 22, 2026
Pet owner deciding on the best Renters Insurance for pet owners.

Credit Union, Bank, or Online Lender? The Smartest Way to Consolidate Debt

Credit unions offer the lowest rates, banks offer convenience and larger loan amounts, and online lenders fund the fastest. Compare prequalified offers from more than one lender before deciding.
Read MoreSep 16, 2026
A couple deciding on the right debt consolidation method for their financial situation.

What Happens If You Default on a Debt Consolidation Loan?

Defaulting on a debt consolidation loan can seriously damage your credit score, trigger late fees, and put your assets at risk if the loan is secured. If you're struggling to keep up, contact your lender early, as deferment, restructuring, or credit counseling may help you avoid the worst outcomes.
Read MoreSep 15, 2026
A man stressing about defaulting on his debt consolidation loan.

How to Pay Off Wedding Debt

The average wedding costs $34,200, and financing it the wrong way can burden your marriage from day one. Learn which options make sense, which to avoid, and how to consolidate any debt you're left with after the big day.
Read MoreSep 10, 2026
A couple figuring out how to pay off their wedding debt.

What Is a Debt-to-Income Ratio and How Do You Calculate It?

Your DTI compares monthly debt payments to gross income, and lenders want it at 36% or below. Pay down revolving debt or boost income to improve your ratio before applying for a loan.
Read MoreSep 10, 2026
A man calculating his debt to income ratio to manage his finances.

Can You Pay Off a Debt Consolidation Loan Early? What to Know About Prepayment Penalties

Paying off a debt consolidation loan early can reduce your total interest, but only makes sense if your lender doesn't charge steep prepayment penalties. Before making extra payments, weigh the savings against other financial priorities like emergency savings and retirement contributions.
Read MoreSep 10, 2026
A woman learning about prepayment penalties of paying debt consolidation loans early.

Should Couples Get Joint Debt Consolidation Loans? Pros, Cons, and How They Work

A joint debt consolidation loan lets couples combine multiple debts into one payment, but ties both partners' credit and finances together. Before applying, ensure you're aligned on repayment expectations, fully transparent about your finances, and prepared for worst-case scenarios.
Read MoreSep 10, 2026
A couple deciding if they should get a joint debt consolidation loan.

Balancing the Bills: How to Navigate Debt Consolidation While Unemployed

This guide breaks down how lenders evaluate unemployed borrowers, which consolidation options may work, and when hardship programs or credit counseling are the safer choice instead.
Read MoreSep 10, 2026
Man reviewing bills with a worried expression while considering debt consolidation while unemployed.

Cosigner for a Debt Consolidation Loan: What You Need to Know

A cosigner with strong credit can help you qualify for a debt consolidation loan or a better rate, but they take on real legal responsibility if you fall behind.
Read MoreSep 10, 2026
Two people reviewing paperwork together while discussing a cosigner for a debt consolidation loan.

Debt Collectors: What They Can and Cannot Do

Debt collectors have to follow federal rules, and knowing them helps you respond with confidence instead of pressure. This guide covers what collectors can and can't do, how debt validation works, and when to escalate a violation.
Read MoreSep 10, 2026
Woman on the phone with a debt collector, feeling stressed about her rights.
test