- DUNS Number: Overview and Application Process
A DUNS number (Data Universal Numbering System) is a unique nine-digit identifier issued by Dun & Bradstreet to help businesses establish credit and demonstrate financial health.
What Is a DUNS Number?
Purpose: Iden…
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- Hardship Loans for Bad Credit
Financial hardships can create unexpected stress, such as a medical emergency, job loss, or vehicle repair. While borrowing during tough times may help, it’s crucial to consider options carefully to avoid worsening your…
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- What Is a Credit-Builder Loan?
What is a Credit-Builder Loan?
A type of loan designed to help people with no or limited credit history build credit through on-time payments.
Borrowers make payments, which are reported to credit bureaus, and re…
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- How to Get Your Free Credit Report
Every U.S. consumer is entitled to a free credit report every 12 months from the three major credit reporting companies: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Here's how to get yours, why it matters, and what to do next. …
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- How to Build Credit When You Don't Have Any
Establishing credit for the first time can seem daunting, but these strategies can help you build a solid foundation for a strong credit score.
1. Apply for a Secured Credit Card
What it is: A card requiring a depos…
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- Top Semi-Truck Financing Companies
Best Semi-Truck Financing Options
LRM Leasing
Features: Lease-to-own with no credit checks.
Specialization: Heavy-duty trucks and construction equipment.
Location: Davie, Florida.
Big Rig Lending
Features…
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- The Best VA Loan Lenders
Here's a summary of the top VA loan lenders compared, including their unique features and ideal borrowers.
Top VA Loan Lenders
Veterans United
Best for: Overall services.
Highlights:
Specializes exclusively in VA loan…
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- How to Finance a Home Remodel
Home renovations can cost up to $50,000 on average. If you lack the savings, financing options such as loans, refinancing, or credit cards can make your dream home a reality. Here's a breakdown of options to consider:
…
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- The Best Debt Relief Companies
What is a Debt Relief Company?
Purpose: Helps consumers manage or resolve unsecured debts like:
Credit cards.
Personal loans.
Medical bills.
Private student loans.
Collections or deficiency balances from repossessions.…
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- The Best Student Loan Refinancing and Consolidation
What is Student Loan Refinancing?
Definition: Refinancing replaces one or more student loans with a new loan at a potentially lower interest rate or better terms.
Loan Types:
Federal Loans: Issued by the U.S. Departme…
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- The Best Debt Settlement Companies
What is Debt Settlement?
Definition: Debt settlement involves negotiating with creditors to reduce the total amount owed, often requiring a lump-sum payment.
Eligibility: Typically applies to unsecured debts (credit c…
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- The Best Credit Counseling Services
What is a Credit Counselor?
Definition: A trained expert providing financial advice on debt management, budgeting, housing, and bankruptcy.
Common Features: Nonprofit agencies often provide free or low-cost services.…
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- The Best Debt Management Plans
What is a Debt Management Plan (DMP)?
Definition: A debt relief program where credit counseling agencies help consolidate and manage unsecured debts (e.g., credit cards, personal loans).
Timeline: Typically completed…
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- The Best Credit Repair Companies
What is Credit Repair?
Process of disputing inaccuracies or negative marks on credit reports with agencies like Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax.
Common targets: late payments, charge-offs, collections, incorrect pe…
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- The Best Debt Consolidation Companies (2023)
What is Debt Consolidation?
Combines multiple debts into one loan with a single monthly payment.
Often aims to lower interest rates and streamline payments, though it may extend repayment terms.
Top Debt Consoli…
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- The Best VA Loan Lenders
What is a VA Loan?
A mortgage exclusively for military service members, veterans, and eligible family members.
Backed by the VA, which covers a portion of the loan if the borrower defaults.
Benefits:
No down payment.
L…
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- USDA Loans And The Best USDA Loan Lenders
What is a USDA Loan?
Offered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to encourage homeownership in eligible rural areas.
Benefits:
No down payment required.
No private mortgage insurance (PMI).
Lower interest rate…
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- The Best Home Equity Loan Lenders
What is a Home Equity Loan?
A secondary mortgage tapping into your home's equity, disbursed as a lump sum.
Typically comes with a fixed interest rate and predetermined repayment schedule.
Ideal for homeowners whose pr…
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- A Simple Guide To HELOC and FHA Loans
What is a HELOC
Definition: A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) allows homeowners to borrow against their home equity with a revolving credit line.
How it works:
Draw Period (5-10 years): Borrow funds as needed an…
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- The Best Solar Financing Companies
Solar Financing Options
Four main ways to fund a solar energy system:
1. Solar Loan: Pay over time with no upfront costs. Potential long-term savings despite added interest.
2. Solar Lease: Rent the panels; installer …
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