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The 4‑step decision Why the 6% threshold? Analysis suggests that when expected portfolio returns and tax advantages are weighed, paying off debts above roughly 6%6% tends to beat investing unmatched dollars for many savers; below that, investing may produce better long‑run outcomes, especially for those far from retirement. Adjust this threshold up or down depending on risk

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Why the brain loves “buy now” How marketers tilt the field Why “good intentions” fail Even disciplined planners succumb when present bias meets high-arousal cues—the momentary value swamps future considerations, leading to time-inconsistent choices that earlier selves wouldn’t endorse. Real-time personalization makes this worse by targeting precisely when susceptibility spikes, shrinking the window for rational

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The biggest score drags How long negatives last Most derogatory items remain for seven years; Chapter 7 bankruptcy can last ten years, while hard inquiries typically affect scores for up to two years with the impact fading sooner. Late-payment damage is front‑loaded—largest initially, then diminishing as new positive history accumulates over months and years. Fastest

Quick definitions Which is better? When to choose each A practical hybrid Start with a 60–90 day snowball to clear two or three smallest balances, then switch to avalanche to maximize savings—this can combine motivation with math without materially delaying payoff when APRs are spread out. Keep minimums on all debts, automate payments, and channel