Freedom from revolving debt took patience, a plan, a change in mindset and a lot of hard work.

Creating a strategy depends on what makes sense to you, but usually you should tackle high-interest debt first.

You can guard against becoming a victim by taking a few simple precautions.

A mediocre or nonexistent credit history could cost you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Learn the secrets to build a stellar score.

Know what things lower your score and what can boost your number.

We'll help you recognize whether you've taken on too much debt and, if so, how to get it under control

These simple tricks will help lighten your load.

When you're looking for a firm to help you get out of debt, don't rely on an Internet search

Settling your debt for less than what you owe does come with repercussions.

Discharging your debts by filing for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 can wreck your credit, but it offers a fresh start.

It pays to know your number—and how to boost it. Take our quiz to show you how.