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Studies & Research

Explore our latest research and studies on the personal finance industry, as our experts cover topics such as debt, credit scores, banking, insurance, lending, and other key resources for American consumers.

John Ulzheimer
John Ulzheimer Credit Expert
Erica Sandberg
Erica Sandberg Finance Expert
Bobbi Rebell
Bobbi Rebell CFP®, CFT™
Ashley Fricker
Ashley Fricker Senior Editor

Our team of seasoned journalists and researchers commission surveys and compile data from reputable sources, such as the U.S. Census Bureau and major credit bureaus, to create original research and comprehensive reports. These insights can help ... See our process

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51% of Prediction Market Users Borrowed Money to Fund Bets
1,840 views 3 min read
Personal Finance 51% of Prediction Market Users Borrowed Money to Fund Bets

As prediction markets expand across sports, politics, and current events, some Americans are using them for more than entertainment. They are treating the platforms as a potential source of... Read More »

Best States to Save for a Home Down Payment in 2026
17,136 views 9 min read
Financial Planning Best States to Save for a Home Down Payment in 2026

Saving for a down payment on a home has become one of the biggest financial hurdles facing Americans. While incomes vary from state to state, so do home prices, taxes, and everyday living... Read More »

1 in 3 Americans Would Have a Baby for $1,000 — Even Though It Costs $300K to Raise One
15,735 views 7 min read
Financial Planning 1 in 3 Americans Would Have a Baby for $1,000 — Even Though It Costs $300K to Raise One

Despite a $1,000 government incentive, most Americans remain hesitant to have more children. A recent BadCredit.org study finds that 1 in 3 Americans surveyed say a $1,000 government investment... Read More »

States with the Most Intense Sports Betting Activity
31,014 views 11 min read
Personal Finance States with the Most Intense Sports Betting Activity

America is currently experiencing a sports betting boom. From 2020 to 2025, the money wagered by Americans on sports bets grew from roughly $20 billion to $165 billion, outpacing traditional... Read More »

3 in 4 Say You Should Have Money Set Aside to Leave a Relationship
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Financial Planning 3 in 4 Say You Should Have Money Set Aside to Leave a Relationship

Most people don’t walk into a relationship thinking it will end. Yet protective measures, such as prenups and pet custody agreements, have been gaining steam lately. Though breakups can be... Read More »

74% of Expectant Parents Say They Can't Buy or Lease a New Car
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Credit Management 74% of Expectant Parents Say They Can't Buy or Lease a New Car

While bad credit has long been a deterrent to long-term financial goals such as home ownership, for millions of people, it’s now blocking the purchase of something that was previously more... Read More »

Eye-Opening Global Poverty Statistics
50,805 views 11 min read
Financial Education Eye-Opening Global Poverty Statistics

If you’re living in the U.S., you may be aware of rising poverty levels. However, you may not know the scale of poverty across the world — and how it varies depending on gender, location, and... Read More »

Most Affordable College Towns to Watch March Madness
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Budgeting Most Affordable College Towns to Watch March Madness

As millions of Americans prepare for bracket-breaking excitement next month, many are also trying to avoid breaking something else: the bank. March Madness is as much a social event as a sporting... Read More »

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Media Appearances

BadCredit is regularly relied upon by leading national news outlets to provide expert commentary on various financial topics. Below are a few select appearances where you can find our resources referenced and experts weighing in on the latest industry news.

A Crisis That’s Too Big to Ignore: Financial Illiteracy Puts Our Nation at Risk

With millions of people dealing with financial strain, it’s long past time for schools to be teaching our students how to manage money.

I’m a Mom Using ChatGPT for Holiday Shopping—and I Don’t Feel Bad About It

In between gifts, decorating, and general parent-led magic, there’s a lot to shop for during the holidays. But this year, Santa’s little helper has gone digital for many...

Trump’s 50-Year Mortgage Gets Default Warning From Moody’s Chief Economist

President Donald Trump’s plan to introduce 50-year mortgages could increase the financial risks for both homeowners and lenders...

How much does it cost to die in America?

Well over half (58%) of all Americans said they couldn’t afford the costs of a funeral if they had to, according to a new survey from CardRates.com. That percentage...

Most Americans believe that having an exit fund for relationships is financially smart, study finds

A growing number of Americans believe having a personal emergency fund specifically for leaving a relationship is simply smart financial planning.

8 Tips To Save $1,000 Before the First Day of Spring

The year is flying by. The first day of spring is right around the corner on Mar. 20, 2026. By now, you may have abandoned some of your New Year’s...