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Maya Dollarhide

Maya Dollarhide

Consumer Lending Expert

Maya Dollarhide is a writer specializing in personal finance, with a special focus on student loans and debt consolidation and management. She has written for Yahoo Finance, Investopedia, Student Loan Hero, Bankrate, and other publications.

Posts by Maya Dollarhide

SoFi vs. Ally: Which Online Bank Is Best for You In 2026?

We break down what each bank offers across checking and savings, digital banking, and customer support, so you can decide which is best for you.
Read MoreNov 8, 2026
SoFi vs. Ally: Which Online Bank Is Best for You?

Citibank vs. Chase: Which Bank Is Best for You In 2026?

Citibank and Chase are two of the five largest banks in the United States and offer similar services. So how do you choose?
Read MoreNov 8, 2026
Citibank vs. Chase: Which Bank Is Best for You?

What to Do If You're Denied for a Debt Consolidation Loan

Your debt-to-income ratio is your total monthly debt payments divided by your gross monthly income. Many lenders prefer 36% or less, though some mortgage programs allow up to 50%. To lower your DTI before you apply, pay down revolving debt first, consider consolidating high-interest balances or increase your income
Read MoreOct 28, 2026
A woman that is worried because she's been denied a debt consolidation loan.

Types of Personal Loans: 8 Options and When to Use Each

Choosing a personal loan starts with knowing which type you're actually borrowing.
Read MoreOct 19, 2026
Man comparing options on a laptop to choose among the types of personal loans.

How to Pay Medical Bills You Can’t Afford, Even With Insurance

A surprise medical bill can feel like a dead end, but it's often the start of a negotiation.
Read MoreOct 19, 2026
Man comparing an itemized hospital bill with his insurance statement to pay off medical bills.

Federal vs. Private Student Loans: What's the Difference?

The way you borrow for school can shape your finances long after graduation.
Read MoreOct 19, 2026
Student and parent comparing federal vs. private student loans at home.

7 Ways to Organize Your Finances This Fall

A little planning now can save you from a stressful scramble when January bills arrive.
Read MoreOct 19, 2026
Woman reviewing a statement on her sofa as she works to organize her finances this fall.

1 in 10 Americans Plan to Borrow for Travel — Here's How to Do It Smarter This Summer

Financing a summer trip is common, but the tool you choose matters. Personal loans, credit cards, and BNPL all carry different costs and risks. Borrow only what you can repay quickly, and pay off last year's vacation debt before taking on new travel expenses.
Read MoreOct 19, 2026
A woman considering a personal loan to borrow for her Summer travels.

Why 1 in 3 Borrowers Without a Degree Fall Behind on Student Loans — And How to Catch Up

Nearly 1 in 3 student loan borrowers without a degree are behind on payments, with default, wage garnishment, and credit damage all at risk. Federal options like income-driven repayment can help, but acting before the 270-day mark is critical.
Read MoreOct 15, 2026
A woman worried about falling behind on her student loan debt.

Should You Take Out a Wedding Loan? Costs, Risks, and Other Ways to Pay

wedding loan is an unsecured personal loan you repay in fixed monthly payments, usually over one to seven years. It can make sense for a defined shortfall with a payment that fits your budget, but interest and fees raise the total cost. Before you borrow, try shrinking the gap with savings, cash funds or a smaller guest list, then compare offers.
Read MoreOct 15, 2026
Wedding Loan
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