Emily Starbuck Gerson

2 weeks ago | experian.com | Emily Starbuck Gerson

Types of Down Payment Assistance ProgramsThere are a variety of down payment assistance programs, but these are the most common types:Typically reserved for first-time homebuyers, grants work like a gift: You don't have to repay the money. The exception is if you don't remain in the home for a required number of years; if you move out earlier than agreed upon, you must pay it back.

1 month ago | experian.com | Emily Starbuck Gerson

Quick AnswerVA loan requirements for 2025 include proving eligibility, using the home as a primary residence and likely paying an upfront funding fee. Mortgages with low interest rates remain hard to come by, and scraping together a sufficient down payment can be a challenge. For active service members and military veterans looking to buy a home, a U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) home purchase loan could be an excellent option.

Jan 28, 2025 | experian.com | Emily Starbuck Gerson

To view important disclosures about the Experian Smart Money™ Digital Checking Account & Debit Card, visit experian.com/legal. The Experian Smart Money™ Debit Card is issued by Community Federal Savings Bank (CFSB), pursuant to a license from Mastercard International. Banking services provided by CFSB, Member FDIC. Experian is a Program Manager, not a bank. Editorial Policy: The information contained in Ask Experian is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice.

Jan 28, 2025 | experian.com | Emily Starbuck Gerson

While turning 18 is a major milestone on the path toward financial independence, it's common to need some extra time and support from family in the form of insurance. Understanding this, auto insurers typically allow drivers to stay on their parents' car insurance as long as they live with them or attend college full time. Rules can vary, however. For example, you might have to drive a car your parents own to stay covered.

Jan 12, 2025 | experian.com | Emily Starbuck Gerson

What to Do if You Get a Citation or Ticket When you receive a citation for a minor infraction, you typically have the option to admit guilt, pay a fine and be done with it. This can be advisable for more minor infractions, like nonmoving violations that don't require a court date. But don't ignore it: Failure to deal with the ticket and pay up can result in a suspended license.