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Maya Dollarhide

Maya Dollarhide

Consumer Lending Expert

Maya Dollarhide is a Freelance Journalist specializing in personal finance, real estate, and financial literacy education. She earned her MS in Journalism from Columbia University and has written for TIME, Yahoo Finance, Investopedia, Bankrate, Forbes, CNN, and AARP. Her work focuses on creating SEO-driven content, developing K-12 financial literacy curriculum, and producing B2B content for financial services clients.

Posts by Maya Dollarhide

Best Debt Consolidation Loans for Fair Credit

A fair credit score (580–669) limits your options but doesn't eliminate them. Compare lenders that work with fair-credit borrowers to cut interest and consolidate debt into one manageable payment.
Read MoreMay 11, 2026
A married couple looking at the best debt consolidation loans for fair credit.

73% of Couples Use Debt for Weddings: What You Need to Know Before You Take Out a Wedding Loan

The average U.S. wedding costs around $34,000, and 73% of couples take on debt to cover it. Before you borrow, here's what to know about wedding loans.
Read MoreMay 7, 2026
Wedding Loan

6 Million Gen X Borrowers Still Owe Student Loans: Should You Refinance Near Retirement?

Nearly 6 million Gen X borrowers are still carrying student loan debt, with an average balance of $48,203. At a 6% interest rate on a 10-year term, that works out to roughly $535 a month—well into what should be peak retirement-saving years.
Read MoreApr 30, 2026
A Gen X borrower thinking about refinancing her student loan.

Joint Personal Loans: How They Work, Risks to Know, and When They Make Sense

A joint personal loan lets two people apply and borrow together, which can unlock better rates and higher amounts. Both borrowers are equally responsible for the full debt, regardless of any private agreement between them.
Read MoreApr 30, 2026
A couple considering a joint personal loan.

How to Consolidate Debt While Unemployed: 5 Options to Consider

Consolidating debt while unemployed is tough, but possible, with options like nonprofit credit counseling, secured loans, and hardship programs still within reach. Your best bet is to compare lenders carefully and tackle your income situation alongside your debt.
Read MoreApr 30, 2026
An unemployed man thinking about his debt consolidation options.

Freedom Debt Relief vs. National Debt Relief: Which Debt Settlement Company Is Better in 2026?

Both companies offer similar debt settlement services, but National Debt Relief edges ahead on customer satisfaction while Freedom Debt Relief leads on scale and digital tools.
Read MoreApr 30, 2026
A woman deciding between Freedom Debt Relief and National Debt Relief for debt settlement.

Risk or Reward: Should Retirees Tap Home Equity to Pay Off Debt?

Retirees with strong equity and high-interest debt may benefit from tapping home equity, but the risks are real. Weigh your income, longevity, and estate plans before borrowing.
Read MoreApr 30, 2026
A retired couple wondering if they should tap their home equity to pay off debt.

Nearly 9 Million Borrowers Are in Student Loan Default—Here’s How to Get Back on Track

Falling behind on your student loans can happen faster than you think. After 270 days without a payment, federal loans can slip into default, putting your wages, credit score, and entire balance at risk. The good news is that you're not alone, and there are clear ways to recover.
Read MoreApr 30, 2026
A woman stressing about her student loans being in default and how to get out of it.

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

A denial usually points to low credit, high DTI, or unstable income. Your next steps depend on the cause, from credit repair to debt management plans or balance transfers.
Read MoreApr 30, 2026
A woman that is worried because she's been denied a debt consolidation loan.

Medical Bills Are Crushing Americans — How To Protect Your Credit

Medical debt has unique credit protections, but they disappear the moment you use a credit card or third-party financing. Know your options before you pay.
Read MoreApr 9, 2026
A woman stressing about the impact of medical debt on her credit score.
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