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 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, her work focuses on creating SEO-optimized content and high-converting campaigns that help financial services companies attract leads and build trust.

Posts by Jamela Adam

Business Credit Card or Business Loan: How to Know Which One Your Business Actually Needs

Business credit cards work best for short-term, recurring expenses, while business loans are better suited for large, one-time investments with predictable repayment. Choosing the wrong option can cost you significantly, so matching your financing tool to your actual need is what matters most.
Read MoreMay 12, 2026
A business owner deciding between a business credit card or business loan.

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 MoreApr 30, 2026
A man stressing about defaulting on his debt consolidation loan.

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 MoreApr 30, 2026
A couple deciding on the right debt consolidation method for their financial situation.

The Real Cost of Borrowing: What Interest Rates Don’t Capture

The interest rate on a loan is only part of what you'll actually pay. Understanding APR, hidden fees, and deferred interest can help you avoid costly surprises.
Read MoreApr 30, 2026
A woman learning about the real cost of borrowing and what interest rates don't explain.

Why Traditional Bank Loans Are Still Hard for Many Small Businesses to Get

Traditional banks are lending less to small businesses due to rising interest rates, stricter standards, and tighter margins. Here's why you're being denied and what you can do to improve your chances.
Read MoreApr 30, 2026
A small business owner feeling helpless because she's struggling to get a loan from a traditional bank.

Married but Financially Independent: Why More Couples Are Ditching the Joint Account

The share of couples with no joint accounts has grown from 15% to 23% since 1996. Joint, separate, or hybrid—the right system depends on your income, habits, and goals.
Read MoreApr 30, 2026
Married but Financially Independent: Why More Couples Are Ditching the Joint Account

When You Pass, Your Online Bank Account Doesn’t: What Families Need to Know About Accessing Digital Accounts

Online bank accounts don't automatically transfer to family when someone dies. They're frozen until the right legal authority is established. Naming a beneficiary is the simplest way to spare loved ones a costly, time-consuming probate process.
Read MoreApr 30, 2026
A family trying to sort out an online bank account after the death of a family member.

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 MoreApr 30, 2026
A man calculating his debt to income ratio to manage his finances.

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 MoreApr 23, 2026
A couple figuring out how to pay off their wedding debt.
test