Robin Hartill

Florida-based personal finance writer, editor and advice columnist. Lover of well-placed em dashes and white space. Slayer of jargon and unnecessary hyphens. Surprisingly agnostic about the Oxford comma.

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  • About me
  • Personal Finance Writing
  • Dear Penny Advice Column
  • Investment Writing
  • Retirement
  • Taxes
  • Credit and Debt
  • Insurance
  • Estate Planning
The Penny Hoarder • 4th April 2023

You Paid Off Debt, So Why Did Your Credit Score Drop? 4 Reasons Why

Credit scores are supposed to show your ability to manage debt responsibly. So why is it that you sometimes see your credit score drop in the short term after you pay off debt?
The Penny Hoarder • 19th January 2023

What Employers Really See When They Run a Credit Check

You survived the interviews. You deftly explained where you see yourself in five years. You even sparkled when you described your greatest weakness. Now there’s just one thing standing between you and your dream job: a credit check.
The Penny Hoarder • 28th July 2022

Dave Ramsey Says You Don’t Need a Credit Score. 5 Reasons That’s Nonsense

Dave Ramsey is proud of the fact that he doesn't have a credit score. The anti-debt crusader, who has an estimated net worth of at least $200 million, calls FICO scores the “I love debt scores.” But unless you're mega-wealthy like Ramsey, you probably need a credit score.
The Penny Hoarder • 5th July 2022

This Is What a Payday Loan Actually Costs You

Payday loans may look appealing in a cash crunch, particularly for people with low credit scores. But the fees and interest are exorbitant, leading many borrowers to take out loan after loan.
The Penny Hoarder • 14th February 2022

10 Financial Setbacks That Actually Won’t Kill Your Credit Score

What’s tough on your wallet isn’t always bad for your credit scores. Here are 10 setbacks that actually don't spell bad news for your score.
The Penny Hoarder • 23rd June 2021

The 20% Down Payment Was Supposed to Be Dead. Is It Making a Comeback?

If you’re hoping to buy a home this year with a small down payment, prepare for a reality check. One of the far-reaching consequences of the pandemic is that the 20% down payment is making a comeback.
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