Family Credit Management

09/01/2026

Credit card balances are climbing, but it’s not necessarily because people are overspending on extras. For many households, everyday expenses are simply stretching budgets further.

Michael McAuliffe shared his perspective with Forbes on what’s driving rising balances and what consumers should consider when looking for a way out of high-interest debt.

Prices are rising, and more people are turning to their credit cards to keep up. Total credit card balances increased by $21 billion in the second quarter of 2026, according to an August 11 report from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York’s Center for Microeconomic Data. High costs paired with

08/31/2026

The interest rate on your credit card can have a huge impact on both how much you ultimately pay and how long it takes to become debt-free.

Learn how to lower your credit card interest rate with strategies like negotiation, balance transfers, and debt consolidation to help pay off debt faster.

08/29/2026

Wanting to help your kids is easy. Figuring out the smartest way to do it? That part takes a little more thought.

We’re thrilled to be featured in U.S. News & World Report discussing ways parents can help adult children become homeowners while still protecting their own financial future.

Parents can help adult kids buy homes, but some options put their finances at risk.

08/25/2026

Getting help with debt is a big decision, and you should feel confident about who you’re turning to. We’re proud to be featured in AOL with practical advice for choosing a credit counselor you can trust.

Many are looking for financial counseling. Should you find yourself in this position, prepare these must-ask questions ahead for your credit counselor.

08/23/2026

There’s nothing better than hearing from someone who feels so good about the new path they’re on.

Thank you so much, Mary!

08/19/2026

Can't sleep because you're thinking about a credit card bill? You're not alone, and it's not just in your head. Research shows financial stress can affect your health and your relationships, no matter your income. Read more about why debt hits harder than ,you might have thought and what to do about it.

Chronic debt can affect your sleep, relationships and even your physical health. Learn why financial stress hits every income level, and how a debt management plan can help.

08/18/2026

Is 3 to 6 months of savings really the magic number? Our own Michael McAuliffe weighs in on emergency funds and what consumers should consider when building their financial safety net.

A changed economy means being more financially prepared. Find out how much you really need in your emergency fund.

08/17/2026

An eviction doesn't have to follow you around forever. Here's what actually sticks, and how to move past it.

Learn how long an eviction stays on your record, whether it affects your credit, and what steps you can take to recover and rebuild your financial future.

08/16/2026

Dating advice from a credit counselor wasn’t on our 2026 bingo card either. But living within your budget? Definitely a green flag.

Great perspective from Michael McAuliffe in VICE.

It's so bad out there that there's a new dating trend called infladating thought to combat financial stress, and an expert has thoughts.

08/14/2026

This is why we do what we do.

Thank you, Elisa, for sharing your experience and for letting us be part of it!