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“One big advantage is that secured cards are relatively easy to get. Another is that parents can be assured their children aren’t overspending,” says Dvorkin. “Otherwise, it’s like learning how to be a trapeze artist without a net.”

“Don’t blend everything. To keep a healthy marriage, keep some money for yourself. If your partner craves the latest iPhone and you collect rare comic books, you don’t need to fight. Instead, budget for both. Agree on how much ‘fun money’ you two will set aside, whether it’s a percentage of salary or a dollar figure. That won’t stop each of you from being judgy, but it will stop you from arguing.”

“Credit card companies make more money when the minimum payment is lower, so more money goes towards the interest rate and less towards the principal,”

“Don’t apply for them,” he said. “The interest rates are scandalous — up to 30%. That’s understandable, because the card issuers are taking a risk. But you’ll be better off doing something much more modest: Getting a secured credit card.”

“A debt consolidation loan works best if your debts are stubborn but reasonable,” says Howard Dvorkin, chairman of Debt.com. “That’s because you need a strong credit score and history to secure a low interest rate. Otherwise, what’s the point?”

“The downside is that it can take a few years to see results,” he says.