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Plastiq Login: How This Service Lets You Pay Bills with Your Credit Card (And What You Need to Know)

If you’ve ever wished you could pay your rent, mortgage, or other bills with a credit card—even when those vendors don’t accept cards—Plastiq might be the solution you’ve been looking for. Plastiq is a service that lets individuals and businesses use debit or credit cards to pay vendors who usually don’t accept those payment methods. But is Plastiq legit? How does Plastiq work? And what about Plastiq fees? Let’s dive into everything you need to know before you hit that Plastiq login button.

What Is Plastiq and How Does It Work?

Plastiq acts as a middleman between you and your billers. After you create a free account and complete your Plastiq login, you add your debit or credit card information. Then you add recipients—your landlord, mortgage lender, or any vendor—and enter the payment amount. Plastiq charges your card and pays the vendor via check, ACH, or wire transfer, depending on what they accept.

This means you can pay bills like rent, mortgage, utilities, daycare, or homeowners association fees with your credit card, even if the vendor doesn’t accept cards directly. The recipient doesn’t need a Plastiq account to receive payments. You can make one-time payments or set up automatic recurring payments for convenience.

Is Plastiq Legit?

Yes, Plastiq is a legitimate and secure payment platform trusted by many users. It uses encryption to protect your data and provides payment confirmations along the way. However, it’s important to be aware of the fees and terms before using it extensively.

What About Plastiq Fees?

Plastiq charges a processing fee of about 2.9% for both credit and debit card payments as of October 20231. For example, if you pay $2,000 in rent, you’ll pay an additional $58 in fees. While this fee might seem steep, many users find it worthwhile if they’re earning credit card rewards or meeting a sign-up bonus spending requirement.

Keep in mind that if you use a credit card and don’t pay off your balance in full each month, you’ll also incur interest charges at your card’s ongoing rate, which can be quite high. So, Plastiq is best used strategically—like when you need short-term cash flow relief or want to hit a credit card bonus.

Using Plastiq for Mortgage Payments

One popular use of Plastiq is for mortgage payments, especially when your lender doesn’t accept credit cards. You can pay your mortgage with your credit card via Plastiq, potentially earning rewards or managing cash flow better. Just remember that some cards, like Visa, may restrict mortgage payments, and some issuers might treat Plastiq payments as cash advances, which can be costly.

Tips for Using Plastiq Wisely

• Use Plastiq to meet credit card sign-up bonuses or earn rewards that offset the fees.
• Avoid using Plastiq if you can’t pay off your credit card balance quickly.
• Check your credit card’s terms to see if Plastiq payments are treated as purchases or cash advances.
• Plan ahead for payments sent by check, which can take up to eight days to arrive.

How to Get Started with Plastiq Login

Getting started is easy:

Smart First Home Buyer Tips You Wish You Knew Sooner

Are you dreaming of buying your first home but feeling overwhelmed by the process?

Becoming a homeowner is a major milestone, but it can also feel confusing, stressful, and full of jargon. The good news? With the right tips for first time home buyers, you can feel confident every step of the way.

In this complete guide, we’ll break down exactly what you need to know before buying your first house—from budgeting and mortgages to home inspections and final offers.

1. Understand How Much You Can Really Afford

Before browsing houses, get real with your budget. Your dream home should never become a financial nightmare.

Use mortgage calculators online (especially from your local bank).

Mortgage calculators : help you estimate how much your monthly mortgage payments will be based on things like:

• The home price
• Your down payment
• Interest rate
• Loan term (e.g., 15 or 30 years)

Why it's important:
These tools give you a quick snapshot of what you can afford each month and how much loan you can handle comfortably. Most local bank websites offer calculators tailored to your country’s financial regulations and interest rates—so they’re more accurate for your situation.
Always try 2–3 scenarios—like a higher down payment or a shorter loan—to see how your payments change.

Calculate your debt-to-income ratio.

Your debt-to-income ratio compares how much you owe each month to how much you earn.
Here’s the formula:  DTI = (Total Monthly Debt Payments ÷ Gross Monthly Income) × 100

Example:
If you make $4,000/month and spend $1,200 on debts (car loan, credit cards, student loans), your DTI is: (1,200 ÷ 4,000) × 100 = 30%

Why it matters:
Most lenders look for a DTI of 36% or less (including your future mortgage). A lower DTI means you’re less risky and more likely to get approved for a loan—and get better interest rates.

Factor in other costs like insurance, taxes, and utilities.
Owning a home comes with more costs than just the mortgage. Don’t forget to budget for:

•  Homeowners insurance – Protects your property from damage or disasters.
•  Property taxes – Annual taxes based on your home’s value and location.
•  Utilities – Water, gas, electricity, internet, etc.
•  HOA fees (if applicable) – If your home is in a community with a homeowners association.

- Why it’s important:
These costs can add hundreds of dollars per month to your total housing expenses. If you only budget for your mortgage payment, you may end up  house poor , meaning all your money goes to your home, leaving little for savings or lifestyle.

1. Start saving early

When calculating about how much money you need to buy a house, be sure to consider one-time expenses and new recurring bills

Down payment: The down payment which you require depends upon the mortgage type and upon the lender you choose. A down payment of just 3% is what some conventional loans require for home buyers with superb credit who are buying for the first time. But even just saving a small down payment can still be challenging. $9,000 is shown, as an example, as being a 3% down payment for a $300,000 home. Pick a target using a payment calculator. To get started, set up automatic transfers out from checking to savings.

Closing costs: These comprise the fees and expenses you pay to complete your mortgage, and the typical range for them goes from 2% to 6% of that loan amount. Closing costs for a $300,000 loan have the potential to reach $6,000. $18,000 could be a possible high. That is money you’d additionally pay, exceeding your down payment. Often, you can ask the seller to pay some closing costs in a buyer's market. Shopping around can help you save money on expenses like home inspections too.

Move-in expenses: Remember to budget for moving costs, which typically run up to $2,500 for most local moves. (Long-distance moves can be much pricier.) You'll need some cash after the home purchase. Set some money aside for immediate home repairs, upgrades and furnishings.

2. Decide how much home you can afford

Figure out how much you can safely spend on a house before starting to shop. NerdWallet's home affordability calculator can help with setting a price range based on your income, debt, down payment, credit score and where you plan to live.

3. Check and polish your credit

Your credit score will determine whether you qualify for a mortgage and affect the interest rate lenders will offer. Having a higher score will generally get you a lower interest rate, so take these steps to polish your credit score to buy a house:

- Get free copies of your credit reports from each of the three credit bureaus — Experian, Equifax and TransUnion — and dispute any errors that could hurt your score.

- Pay all your bills on time, and keep credit card balances as low as possible.

- Keep current credit cards open. Closing a card will increase the portion of available credit you use, which can lower your score.

- Avoid opening new credit accounts while you’re applying for mortgages. Opening new accounts could put a hard inquiry on your credit report and lower the overall average age of your credit accounts, which could hurt your score.

- Track your credit score. NerdWallet offers a free credit score that updates weekly.

Final Thoughts: Take It One Step at a Time

Buying your first home is a big deal—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding how much you can really afford, saving early, and improving your credit, you’ll be in a much stronger position to make a smart purchase. Don’t rush the process. Take the time to research, ask questions, and lean on professionals when needed. With the right preparation, your dream of homeownership can become a reality—without turning into a financial headache.

International Wire Transfer Fees Are Robbing You , Here’s How to Fight Back

Sending money across borders or even domestically can feel like a breeze, until you see the wire transfer fees eating into your hard-earned cash. Whether you're paying for an overseas supplier, supporting family abroad, or transferring funds to a new account, those pesky bank wire fees can add up fast. If you’ve ever Googled “how much does it cost to wire money?” or “how much does a wire transfer cost?”, you’re not alone. Millions of people are shocked by hidden charges and unclear pricing.

In this article, we’ll break down 10 critical facts about wire transfer fees that every sender needs to know. From international wire transfer fees to tips for finding free wire transfers, this listicle will help you save money and make informed decisions. Let’s dive in and uncover the truth about how much to wire money in 2025!

10 Must-Know Facts About Wire Transfer Fees

1. Domestic Wire Transfers Aren’t Always Cheap

You might assume wiring money within the same country is inexpensive, but bank wire fees for domestic transfers can range from $15 to $35 per transaction in the U.S. For example:

• Big banks like Chase or Bank of America often charge $25–$35 for outgoing domestic wires.
• Credit unions or smaller banks may offer lower fees, sometimes as low as $10.
• Tip: Check if your bank offers free domestic wires for premium account holders or high-balance customers.

2. International Wire Transfer Fees Can Be Outrageous

Debt Consolidation Credit Card Hacks: Pay Off Debt Faster Than Ever!

What Is Credit Card Consolidation?

Credit card consolidation is the process of combining multiple credit card balances into a single loan or payment plan, often with a lower interest rate. By consolidating, you simplify your finances, reduce stress, and potentially save thousands in interest. Whether you’re exploring a debt consolidation credit card, a personal loan, or a balance transfer, the goal is the same: pay off your debt faster and more affordably.

For those asking “how can I combine my credit card debt?”, consolidation offers a structured path to tackle high-interest balances. Instead of juggling multiple due dates and minimum payments, you streamline everything into one payment, making it easier to stay on track.

Why Should You Consolidate Credit Card Debt?

If you’re wondering “how to consolidate credit card debt”, you’re likely feeling the weight of high interest rates, late fees, or overwhelming monthly payments. Here’s why credit card debt consolidation is worth considering:

1-Lower Interest Rates: Many consolidation options, like balance transfer cards or personal loans, offer lower rates than the average credit card APR (often 20% or higher).

2- Simplified Payments: Combining multiple credit card debts into one payment reduces the chance of missing due dates or incurring penalties.

3- Faster Debt Payoff: By reducing interest, more of your payment goes toward the principal, helping you become debt-free sooner.

4- Improved Credit Score: Consistent, on-time payments through a consolidation plan can boost your credit score over time.

5- Ready to explore your options? Let’s break down the most popular methods to consolidate credit card debt.

Top Methods for Credit Card Debt Consolidation

When researching “how to consolidate credit card debt”, you’ll come across several strategies. Here are the top options, tailored to help you make an informed decision:

1. Balance Transfer Credit Cards

• Compare Balance Transfer Offers: Look for cards with long 0% APR periods (12–21 months) and low balance transfer fees (typically 3–5%).
• How Much Should I Balance Transfer?: Only transfer what you can realistically pay off during the introductory period. Use online calculators to estimate your monthly payments.
• Pros: No interest during the promotional period, potentially faster debt payoff.
• Cons: Requires good credit, and unpaid balances after the promo period face high regular APRs.
• Tip: Research cards like the Citi Simplicity® Card or Chase Freedom Unlimited® for competitive balance transfer offers.

2. Debt Consolidation Loans

• A personal loan for credit card consolidation combines your credit card balances into a single loan with a fixed interest rate and repayment term. This is ideal for those who prefer predictable payments.
• How It Works: You apply for a loan, use the funds to pay off your credit cards, and then make one monthly payment to the lender.
• Benefits: Fixed rates (often 6–15% for good credit) and a clear payoff timeline.
• Considerations: Approval depends on your credit score, and some loans come with origination fees.
• Popular Lenders: Check out options from SoFi,  LightStream, or local credit unions for competitive rates.

3. Debt Management Programs

• Offered by credit counseling agencies, debt management programs negotiate lower interest rates with your creditors and create a payment plan to consolidate your debts.
• Best For: Those who need professional guidance or struggle with multiple high-interest cards.
• Pros: Lower rates and fees, expert support.
• Cons: May involve monthly fees and a longer repayment period.

Choose a reputable nonprofit credit counseling agency, like the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC).

How to Choose the Right Consolidation Option

With so many options, how can you combine your credit card debt in a way that works for you? Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

• If you have good credit: A balance transfer card or personal loan is likely your best bet for low rates and flexibility.
• If you’re overwhelmed by payments: A debt management program can provide structure and creditor negotiations.
• If you want a fixed timeline: A consolidation loan offers predictable payments over a set term.
• Before deciding, use tools like debt calculators to estimate savings and compare offers. For example, when researching “how much should I balance transfer”, calculate how much you can pay monthly to clear the balance before the 0% APR period ends.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Consolidating Credit Card Debt

Consolidation can be a powerful tool, but it’s not foolproof. Avoid these pitfalls to ensure success:

- Racking Up New Debt: After consolidating, don’t use your old credit cards for new purchases. This can trap you in a cycle of debt.

- Ignoring Fees: Balance transfer fees or loan origination fees can add up. Factor them into your decision.

- Missing Payments: Late payments can void promotional APRs or lead to penalties. Set up autopay to stay on track.

- Choosing the Wrong Option: Not all consolidation methods suit every situation. Compare terms, rates, and eligibility carefully.

FAQs About Credit Card Consolidation

To address common search queries, here are answers to questions you might be asking:

Q: How to consolidate credit card debt?

A: You can consolidate through a balance transfer card, a personal loan, or a debt management program. Each option combines multiple debts into one payment, often with lower interest rates.

Q: How much should I balance transfer?

A: Transfer only what you can pay off during the 0% APR period (typically 12–21 months). Use a debt calculator to estimate monthly payments based on your budget.

Q: How can I combine my credit card debt?

A: Start by assessing your total debt, credit score, and budget. Then, compare balance transfer cards, consolidation loans, or debt management programs to find the best fit.

Final Thoughts:

Credit card consolidation is more than just a financial strategy—it’s a step toward reclaiming your peace of mind. By addressing questions like “how to consolidate credit card debt” or “how can I combine my credit card debt”, you’re already on the path to financial freedom.

Whether you choose a debt consolidation credit card, a personal loan, or a debt management program, the key is to act now. Compare balance transfer offers, calculate your savings, and pick a plan that aligns with your goals.

Delta Companion Ticket Secrets: Save BIG on Your Next Flight!

Imagine booking a dream vacation for two, but only paying for one plane ticket. Sounds too good to be true? It’s not! With the Delta Companion Ticket (also known as the Delta Companion Certificate), you can bring a friend, family member, or partner along for just the cost of taxes and fees. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family reunion, or an international adventure, this incredible perk can save you hundreds—or even thousands—on airfare.  

In this guide, we’ll answer the burning questions travelers are searching for: What is a Delta Companion Certificate? and How to use a Delta Companion Ticket? We’ll also dive into insider tips for maximizing this benefit, including how to use it for a Delta companion ticket international flight. By the end, you’ll be ready to unlock massive savings and make an informed decision about whether this travel hack is right for you. Let’s soar into the details!  

What Is a Delta Companion Certificate?

Shopify Pricing Secrets: Get the Best Deal on Your Online Store Today

let’s talk about why Shopify is a go-to for over 4.4 million online stores worldwide. From seamless website building to powerful point-of-sale (POS) systems, Shopify offers everything you need to sell online, in-store, or across social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. But with great power comes a price tag.

Let’s explore Shopify pricing plans to see if it fits your budget and goals.

Shopify Pricing Plans:

Shopify offers five Shopify subscription plans tailored to different business needs. Below, we’ll unpack each plan, including costs, features, and who it’s best for. All prices are based on monthly billing unless noted, with a 25% discount for annual subscriptions. Plus, Shopify offers a 3-day free trial and a $1/month deal for the first three months on select plans—perfect for testing the waters!

1- Shopify Starter ($9/month)

- Best for: Side hustlers, influencers, or anyone selling on social media or existing websites.

- Features:

• 1- Sell unlimited products via a basic storefront or Buy Button on blogs/websites.
• 2- Access to Shopify POS Lite for in-person sales.
• 3- Sell on social media (Instagram, TikTok, etc.).

- Transaction Fees: 2.9% + 30¢ per online transaction (with Shopify Payments).

- Drawbacks: No full online store or blog—ideal for small-scale sellers.

- Who Should Choose This? If you’re testing a business idea or selling merch as a creator, this is the cheapest way to start.

2-  Basic Shopify ($39/month or $29/month annually)

- Best for: New entrepreneurs or small businesses launching a full online store.

- Features:

• 1- Fully customizable online store with blog.
• 2- Unlimited products and 10 inventory locations.
• 3- 24/7 support, discount codes, and abandoned cart recovery.

- Transaction Fees: 2.9% + 30¢ online, 2.7% in-person (Shopify Payments). 2% for external gateways.

- Why Choose This? Perfect for startups needing a professional store without breaking the bank.

3- Shopify (Grow) ($105/month or $79/month annually)

- Best for: Growing businesses with small teams.

- Features:

• 1- Everything in Basic, plus five staff accounts.
• 2- Standard analytics, gift cards, and up to 88% shipping discounts.
• 3-  Language translation for global selling.

- Transaction Fees: 2.6% + 30¢ online, 2.5% in-person (Shopify Payments). 1% for external gateways.

- Why Choose This? Ideal for businesses scaling up and needing multi-user access.

4- Advanced Shopify ($399/month or $299/month annually)

- Best for: Larger businesses with complex needs.

- Features:

• 1- 15 staff accounts, advanced reports, and third-party shipping rates.
• 2-  Duties and import tax calculations for international sales.
• 3- Shopify POS Pro for $89/month per location.

- Transaction Fees: 2.4% + 30¢ online, 2.4% in-person (Shopify Payments). 0.5% for external gateways.

- Why Choose This? Suited for high-volume sellers who need robust analytics and global reach.

5-  Shopify Plus ($2,300+/month)

- Best for: Enterprise-level businesses or high-volume merchants.

- Features:

• 1- Customizable checkout and headless ecommerce.
• 2- 20 POS Pro locations included.
• 3- Dedicated account manager and advanced automation.

- Transaction Fees: Custom rates, typically lower than standard plans.

- Why Choose This? For brands like Gymshark or Allbirds, Shopify Plus offers unmatched scalability.

Is Shopify Free?

If you’re Googling is Shopify free, here’s the truth: Shopify doesn’t have a free plan, but it’s not out to drain your wallet either. The 3-day free trial lets you explore the platform without a credit card, and the $1/month deal for three months (on Basic, Grow, or Advanced plans) is practically free. After that, you’ll need to commit to a paid plan. Unlike some competitors, Shopify’s value lies in its all-in-one features—no need to cobble together separate tools for hosting, payments, or analytics.

Hidden Costs to Watch Out For

When calculating how much Shopify costs, don’t overlook these potential extras:

1- Domain Name: A custom domain (e.g., yourbrand.com) costs $14–$20/year via Shopify or third-party registrars like GoDaddy.

2- Premium Themes: Free themes are great, but premium ones ($140–$450 one-time) offer advanced designs.

3- Apps: Shopify’s App Store has 8,000+ apps. Free apps are available, but paid ones range from $5–$100/month.

4- Transaction Fees: Using external gateways (e.g., PayPal) adds 0.5%–2% per sale. Stick with Shopify Payments to avoid these.

5- Shopify POS Pro: Advanced POS features cost $89/month per location.

6- Shipping Labels: Costs vary by carrier and volume, typically $10–$200/month.

Save money by choosing an annual plan (25% off), using Shopify Payments, and starting with free themes/apps.

How to Choose the Best Shopify Plan for You

Picking the right Shopify pricing plan depends on your business stage and goals. Here’s a quick guide:

• Side Hustle or Testing? Go with Shopify Starter ($9/month).
• New Online Store? Basic Shopify ($39/month) offers the best bang for your buck.
• Growing Team? The Grow plan ($105/month) supports scaling businesses.
• Large Business? Advanced Shopify ($399/month) or Shopify Plus ($2,300+) unlocks advanced features.

Still unsure? Start with the 3-day free trial and explore Shopify’s features. You can upgrade or downgrade anytime, so there’s no pressure to commit long-term.

Shopify vs. Competitors: Is It Worth the Price?

Compared to Wix ($20/month) or Squarespace ($17/month), Shopify’s prices are higher, but its ecommerce-specific tools are unmatched. WooCommerce is cheaper but requires technical know-how and separate hosting. Shopify’s all-in-one platform, seamless POS, and global selling features justify the cost for serious sellers.

Ready to Launch Your Shopify Store?

Now that you know how much Shopify costs and what each Shopify pricing plan offers, it’s time to take action. Whether you’re a solopreneur or a global brand, Shopify has a plan to fuel your growth. Start with the 3-day free trial, snag the $1/month deal, and build your dream store today.

Don’t let Shopify prices scare you—investing in the right plan is like hiring a 24/7 business partner. Got questions about Shopify subscription plans or need help choosing? Drop a comment below or contact Shopify’s 24/7 support. Your ecommerce empire awaits!

The Ultimate Bilt Rent Guide: Instant Approval Cards & Free Points

What Is Bilt? The Rent Rewards Revolution

Capital One Savor Is Blowing Up in 2025 – Should You Get One?

Why the Capital One Savor Card Is Turning Heads

Are you searching for a credit card that rewards your love for dining, entertainment, and grocery shopping without draining your wallet with fees? Look no further than the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card—a game-changer for foodies, concert-goers, and savvy spenders alike.

Previously known as the Savor One, this card has been rebranded as Savor with a sleek new design and a beefed-up welcome bonus that’s hard to ignore.

Whether you’re wondering, “What is the Capital One Savor card?” or “Where can I use my Capital One Savor?” this guide dives deep into why this card might be your ticket to effortless cash back rewards.

Let’s explore how the Savor card Capital One can elevate your spending game and help you decide if it’s the right fit for you.

What Is the Capital One Savor Card?

The Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card is a no-annual-fee credit card designed for those who live for dining out, streaming their favorite shows, and enjoying memorable experiences. It’s tailored for people with good to excellent credit (670+ credit score) and offers a robust rewards structure that makes everyday spending rewarding. Here’s the breakdown:

Self CC Secrets Revealed: Build Your Credit Fast with Self Credit Builder – Is It Really Free?

Why Self Credit Builder Is the Talk of the Town

Struggling to build your credit score? Whether you’re starting from scratch or rebuilding after a financial hiccup, finding the right tools can feel overwhelming. Enter Self Credit Builder—a game-changer in the world of credit building. With its unique approach to self loans to build credit, Self CC has caught the attention of millions looking to boost their financial health. But the big questions remain: Is Self free? How much is Self? And how can you use self credit builder login to take control of your credit? In this blog,

we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about Self account setup, costs, and how to self-report credit for maximum impact. Buckle up—this is your ultimate guide to mastering your credit with Self!

What Is Self Credit Builder? A Quick Overview

Self Credit Builder (often searched as Self CC) is a financial tool designed to help you build or improve your credit score without needing a traditional loan or credit card. Unlike conventional loans where you get the money upfront, Self’s credit builder loans work by holding your payments in a Certificate of Deposit (CD) until the loan term ends. Once you’ve made all your payments, you get the money back (minus fees and interest), and your on-time payments are reported to the three major credit bureaus—Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax.

This process helps establish a positive payment history, which accounts for 35% of your FICO score

Self also offers a Self Visa® Credit Card, which you can qualify for after making just three on-time payments and saving $100. This secured card uses your loan payments as your credit limit, making it an excellent option for those with no credit or bad credit. Curious about how it works? Let’s break it down.

How Does Self Credit Builder Work? Step-by-Step Guide

- Create a Self Account: Sign up on the Self Credit Builder login portal or download the Self app. You’ll need to provide basic info like your name, address, Social Security number, and a bank account or debit card for payments. No hard credit check is required, so your score won’t take a hit

- Choose Your Plan: Self offers four plans with monthly payments ranging from $25 to $150. Each plan has a term of 12 or 24 months, with APRs around 15.51% to 15.92%. For example:Small Builder: $25/month for 24 months, get $520 back (minus $89 fees/interest).X-Large Builder: $150/month for 12 months, get $1,663 back (minus $146 fees/interest).

- Make Monthly Payments: Your payments are reported to the credit bureaus, building your credit self profile with each on-time payment.

- Unlock Your Funds: Once the loan term ends, you receive the money in your CD (minus fees and interest). Plus, you may qualify for the Self Visa® Credit Card to continue building credit.

- Track Your Progress: Use the Self credit builder login to monitor your payments and check your Vantage Score 3.0 for free.

Is Self Free? Breaking Down the Costs

One of the most common questions is, “Is Self free?” The short answer: No, Self is not free, but it’s affordable compared to other credit-building options. Here’s a breakdown of how much is Self:

- Administrative Fee: A one-time, non-refundable $9 fee to open your account.

- Monthly Payments: Range from $25 to $150, depending on your chosen plan.

- Interest: Self charges 15.51% to 15.92% APR, which is lower than many secured credit cards or personal loans.

- Debit Card Convenience Fee: If you pay with a debit card, expect a $0.30 + 2.99% fee per transaction. Link a bank account to avoid this.

- Self Visa® Credit Card: After qualifying, the card has a $25 annual fee (waived the first year) and a 28.24% variable APR.

While there are costs, Self’s transparency and lack of hard credit checks make it a low-risk option. Compare this to secured credit cards requiring a $200+ deposit or high-interest personal loans, and Self often comes out ahead.

How to Self-Report Credit: Maximizing Your Score

Wondering how to self-report credit? Self does the heavy lifting by reporting your payments to all three credit bureaus. However, you can amplify your credit-building efforts with these tips:

- Report Rent and Utilities: Self offers a free rent reporting service to all three bureaus and a paid plan ($6.95/month) for utility and cell phone reporting to TransUnion. This can boost your score if you’re already making these payments on time.

- Make On-Time Payments: Late payments (30+ days overdue) can hurt your score, so set up autopay through your Self account to stay on track.

- Keep Other Accounts in Good Standing: Self’s impact is maximized when combined with responsible management of other credit accounts.

- Check Your Credit Report: Use AnnualCreditReport.com to ensure Self’s payments are accurately reported. Dispute any errors through Self’s customer service.

Final Thought:

Self Credit Builder is a smart, accessible way to boost your credit score without the risks of traditional loans or credit cards. While it’s not free, its low fees and flexible plans make it a game-changer for credit newbies or rebuilders. Start with a Self account today, leverage self loans to build credit, and watch your score soar—your financial future is worth it!

Who Owns Bitcoin? Unveiling the Mystery Behind Bitcoin’s Creator and Biggest Holders

Bitcoin is the world’s first decentralized digital currency, but many people still ask, who owns bitcoin? and who owns the most bitcoin? To answer these questions, we need to explore the origins of Bitcoin and the identity of its mysterious creator, as well as the distribution of Bitcoin ownership today.

Who Created Bitcoin?

Bitcoin was created by an individual or group using the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto. The true identity of Satoshi remains unknown, making it one of the biggest mysteries in tech and finance1. In October 2008, Nakamoto published the Bitcoin white paper titled “Bitcoin: A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System”, which introduced the concept of a decentralized digital currency based on blockchain technology.

In January 2009, Nakamoto launched the Bitcoin network by mining the first block, known as the genesis block. Over the next couple of years, Nakamoto communicated with early developers and enthusiasts but gradually disappeared from public view by late 2010. Since then, many have speculated about Nakamoto’s identity, with candidates ranging from cryptographers like Nick Szabo and Hal Finney to groups of developers, but no conclusive proof has emerged.

Why Did Satoshi Nakamoto Remain Anonymous?

Nakamoto’s choice to stay anonymous likely reflects a desire for privacy and security, as well as a commitment to Bitcoin’s core principle of decentralization. By stepping away and not revealing their identity, Nakamoto ensured that Bitcoin would remain a community-driven project without a central figure controlling it1. This anonymity also protected Nakamoto from potential legal or political risks associated with disrupting traditional financial systems.

Does Satoshi Nakamoto Own Bitcoin?

It is estimated that Nakamoto mined around 1.1 million bitcoins in the early days of the network, making them one of the largest holders of Bitcoin. However, these coins have never been moved or spent, symbolizing Nakamoto’s commitment to the project’s principles and the scarcity of Bitcoin.

Who Owns the Most Bitcoin Today?

Beyond Nakamoto, Bitcoin ownership is spread across millions of wallets worldwide. However, a small number of “whales” — large holders including early investors, institutional funds, and exchanges — control significant portions of the supply. Major crypto exchanges like Binance and Coinbase hold large amounts of Bitcoin on behalf of their users, but these coins are not owned by the exchanges themselves.

Institutional investors such as MicroStrategy and Tesla have also publicly disclosed owning tens of thousands of bitcoins as part of their treasury reserves. These large holders can influence market dynamics, which is why understanding who owns Bitcoin matters for traders and investors.

How to Check Bitcoin Ownership Yourself?

You can explore Bitcoin ownership using blockchain explorers like Blockchain.com, which show wallet balances and transaction histories. Rich lists rank the largest Bitcoin holders by wallet size, but keep in mind that wallet addresses don’t always reveal the owner’s identity.

Final Thoughts

Bitcoin’s ownership is decentralized by design, with no single person or entity controlling it. While Satoshi Nakamoto remains the largest known holder, their identity and intentions continue to be a mystery. The distribution of Bitcoin among whales, exchanges, and everyday users shapes the market and the future of this revolutionary digital currency.

If you want to learn more about Bitcoin, its history, and how to invest safely, check out our beginner’s guide to cryptocurrency investing and start your journey with confidence!