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Jackie Lam

Jackie Lam

Jackie is a personal finance writer and educator, and has written extensively on personal financial topics such as budgeting, money management, banking, loans, saving money, insurance. She is an AFC® accredited financial counselor, and focuses on helping self-employed freelance creatives and artists with their money.

She's contributed to both Fortune 500 companies and fintech startups, including SoFi, Forbes, Chime, Investopedia, Credit Karma, CNET, Refinery29, Time's NextAdvisor, BuzzFeed, Insider, Credit Sesame, and LendingTree. She also ghostwrites in the B2C space and for venture capital firms.

Jackie is the 2022 recipient of Money Management International's Financial Literacy and Education in Communities (FLEC) Award and the 2022 Plutus Awards recipient for Best Freelancer in Personal Finance Media. In her free time she enjoys hiking, water aerobics, drumming, and collecting stickers.

States with no income tax

The nine states with no income tax: Is one right for you?

There are nine states in the U.S. that don’t have income tax: Alaska, Florida, New Hampshire, Nevada, South Dakota, Texas, Washington and Wyoming.
How to cash a check without a bank account

How to cash a check without a bank account

If you don't have a bank account, you still have options to cash a check. You can cash it at the issuing bank, at a retailer or grocery store or by depositing funds into a prepaid debit card.

LendingClub personal loans review

LendingClub personal loans can be a good option if you are rebuilding your credit or building your credit from scratch—but expect to pay more.
Best vacation loans

Best vacation loans for 2024

A vacation loan could come in handy if you need to take a last-minute trip or want to plan a dream getaway. Here's what you need to know.

How to apply for a credit card (and get approved)

Learning the ins and outs of credit scores may help you get approved for a credit card.
How does debt consolidation work?

How does debt consolidation work?

Debt consolidation can help streamline your debt and lower your monthly payments and interest rate. However, there are pros and cons to this option.
Best credit monitoring services

Best credit monitoring services: Your options to keep an eye on your score

Credit monitoring services can safeguard you against costly identity theft and fraud. Let's take a look at the top credit monitoring services for you and your family.

When should you refinance your car loan?

If you can qualify for lower interest rates or better terms, it might be a good idea to refinance your car loan. Learn more.

Best personal loans for fair credit

Personal loans for those with fair credit can be used for a variety of purposes. However, bear in mind that you might not be eligible for the best terms. Personal loans are available to those who have fair credit, but you'll likely need to pay more in interest.
Financial Independence Retire Early (FIRE)

Financial Independence Retire Early (FIRE): What is it, and is it right for you?

The Financial Independence Retire Early (FIRE) movement appeals to those who want a life of financial independence. But retiring early is not for everyone.
Installment Loans vs. Payday Loans

Installment loans vs. payday loans

Payday loans are typically seen as predatory—and for good reason. Let's take a look at how they stack up against installment loans.
How to open a bank account as a non-U.S. citizen

How to open a bank account as a non-US citizen

If you're not a U.S. citizen, here are the steps you need to take to open a bank account.
What is an ACH transfer?

What is an ACH transfer?

ACH transfers are an everyday part of our financial lives. Learn more about how ACH transfers work, and the differences between ACH transfers and wire transfers.