At Advantage Credit Counseling Service, one of the most common questions we hear from our clients or potential clients is: “Should I be saving money, or should I focus on paying off my debt first?” It’s an understandable concern. When money is already stretched thin, trying to do both can feel impossible. The truth is, […]
Continue ReadingAuthor: Lauralynn
Lauralynn is the Online Marketing Specialist for AdvantageCCS. She enjoys writing, reading, hiking, cooking, video games, sewing, and gardening. Lauralynn has a degree in Multimedia Technologies from Pittsburgh Technical College.
Debt Fatigue Is Real: How To Stay Motivated When Progress Feels Slow
Paying off debt is often described as a financial journey—but what many people don’t talk about is how emotionally exhausting that journey can be. If you’ve been making payments month after month and still feel like you’re barely moving forward, you may be experiencing debt fatigue. Debt fatigue is real, common, and completely understandable. Moreover, […]
Continue ReadingFinancial Reset After The Holidays: How To Recover From Holiday Debt
The holidays are meant to be a time of joy, connection, and celebration—but for many people, January arrives with something far less festive: credit card balances, financial stress, and lingering debt from holiday spending. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Holiday debt is extremely common, and the good news is that it’s also manageable […]
Continue ReadingEmergency Funds: How Much You Need And How To Build One
An emergency fund is one of the most important yet misunderstood components of financial stability. Many people know they should have one, but uncertainty about how much to save and how to get started often leads to inaction. Understanding the purpose of an emergency fund can make saving feel more achievable and less intimidating. What […]
Continue ReadingFinancial Checkups Aren’t Just For January Anymore
Many people associate financial planning with New Year’s resolutions. Budgets are created in January, goals are set, and intentions are high. By mid‑year, however, life happens. Expenses change, priorities shift, and financial plans can drift off course. That is why regular financial checkups are just as important as annual goal setting. A mid‑year financial review […]
Continue ReadingThe Hidden Cost Of Convenience: How Small Financial Shortcuts Add Up
Convenience is everywhere. One‑click purchases, buy now pay later options, subscription services, and delivery fees promise to save time and reduce stress. While these tools can be helpful in moderation, convenience often comes with a quiet price tag that many households underestimate. Over time, small financial shortcuts can drain cash flow, increase debt, and make […]
Continue ReadingForward Planning: Financial Resolutions That Stick
Every January, millions of people set financial resolutions—save more, spend less, budget better. However, by spring, many of those goals have faded into the everyday noise of life. The real question isn’t “What goals should I set?” but rather “How do I make financial resolutions that actually stick?” The answer begins before setting any goals […]
Continue ReadingWhat Happens To Debt When Someone Passes Away: A Guide For Family Members
When a loved one passes away, there is no shortage of emotions and responsibilities to manage. Along with grief, family members often face the practical concerns of handling the deceased’s estate. One of the most pressing matters is what happens to the debt that the person leaves behind. Debt can be a complicated issue after […]
Continue ReadingManaging Debt, Housing, And Medical Costs In Retirement
Retirement is meant to be a time to relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor, but for many, it also brings financial challenges. As you move out of the workforce and onto a fixed income, managing expenses like debt, housing, and medical costs becomes crucial to maintaining financial security. If you’re approaching retirement or […]
Continue ReadingNavigating Business Credit vs. Personal Credit
For many entrepreneurs—especially those running small businesses or launching side ventures—the line between personal and business finances can easily blur. While this might not seem like a big deal at first, understanding the difference between business credit and personal credit is essential for protecting your financial health, unlocking funding, and building long-term stability for both […]
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