Debt Payoff

The One Shift That Helped Taylor Become Debt-Free During Unemployment

Taylor and her husband lost their jobs twice in one year—but still paid off $9,000 of debt and stayed out of the red. Here’s how breaking their reliance on debt changed everything.

Ben Barlowe

December 9, 2025

Debt vs. Month Ahead: What to Tackle First

Should you pay off debt or get a month ahead first? The Budget Nerds weigh the pros and cons of each approach, showing how both can help you build confidence and peace with your money. A calmer money life is just ahead...

Ernie Reppe

November 20, 2025

Want Better Sleep? Start with Your Spending Habits

Better sleep starts with more than a bedtime routine—it begins with how you manage your money. Align your spending with what matters most to lower stress and rest easier.

Jack Silk

August 5, 2025

6 Money Myths That Kept Me Broke for 20 Years

A lifetime of money myths quietly shaped my choices, limited my options, and kept me stuck. Letting go of these six common misconceptions gave me a new mindset and led to real financial freedom.

Erin Lowell

June 19, 2025

How To Pay Off $20,000 Car Loan Fast: 4 Simple Tips

Amanda found herself with a $20,000 car loan, and she didn't love the feeling. Find out how she paid off her car loan fast with 4 quick tips.

YNAB

November 2, 2021

Slay Your Loans With YNAB’s Loan Payoff Simulator

Find more money for your loans and pay less in interest with YNAB's loan payoff simulator. It's the spear you need to slay your debt payoff.

Rachel Wong

December 7, 2022

Which Comes First: Emergency Fund or Pay Off Debt?

Wondering if you should build your emergency fund or pay off debt first? Learn the best method for prioritizing competing financial goals.

Ben Barlowe

October 28, 2021

How to Get Out and Stay Out Of Debt (Forever!)

Stuck in the debt cycle? Let me guess, you're throwing everything at your debt payoff? Stop. Here’s how to stay out of debt forever.

Erin Lowell

March 18, 2020

4 Lessons From My Zero Percent Nightmare

I thought I was entirely in control of my credit card spending, but it is a serious head game and no one is immune.

Lindsey Burgess

November 11, 2019

How to Pay Off Student Loans Fast

Are you ready to pay off student loans fast? Read more about the karate-chop strategy Ernie used to defeat his student loan balances!

Emily Hudson

September 8, 2022

My Crazy Ride on the Credit Card Float

If you’re on the credit card float, you’re effectively living on next month’s income! And, chances are, you're stressed. Learn how to stop.

Janelle Whitaker

August 1, 2018

How to Snowball Your Debt & Reclaim Your Paycheck

Have you tried a debt snowball? It can change your plan can change your outlook, no matter how deep your debt.

Shannon Marie

July 26, 2018

How to Pay Off Debt Fast: 12 Ideas

Wondering how to pay off debt fast with a honey badger-level intensity? Defeat debt in record time. We've got a few ideas to get you started.

Rachel Wong

March 15, 2023

Are You Riding the Credit Card Float?

Are you riding the credit card float? Here's a quick test: can you pay off your current bill AND meet your current obligations?

Jesse Mecham

October 31, 2023

How to Become Debt Free With a Low Income

It’s going to be tight, but you can do it. Getting out of debt involves one big decision followed by small, daily decisions.

Jesse Mecham

September 6, 2013