Pros and cons of a home equity line of credit (HELOC)
A HELOC has low interest rates, but it requires you to use your home as collateral.
12 min read
Aug 25, 2025
Allison Martin
Contributor, Personal Finance
EXPERTISE
- Personal finance
- Taxes
- Mortgages
- Auto loans
- Small business loans
EDUCATION
- Bachelor’s, University of South Florida
- Master’s, University of South Florida
Allison Martin is a contributor to Bankrate covering personal finance, including taxes, mortgages, auto loans and small business loans. Martin’s work began over 10 years ago as a digital content strategist, and she’s since been published in several leading outlets, including The Wall Street Journal, MSN Money, MoneyTalksNews, Investopedia, Experian and Credit.com. Martin, a Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFE), also shares her passion for financial literacy and entrepreneurship with others through interactive workshops and programs.
Allison's latest articles
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What dealer financing is and how it works
Dealer financing is convenient but costly — learn how to save.
6 min read Aug 25, 2025 -
Do I have to file taxes? Here’s how to figure out if you should file a tax return
If your income hits a specified level, you’re required to file a tax return. But it may make sense to file no matter what your income.
7 min read Aug 23, 2025 -
Broad form car insurance
What is broad form auto insurance? Bankrate has the details.
8 min read Aug 19, 2025 -
National Funding
National Funding provides short- and long-term loans to eligible business owners with a credit score of over 660. Check out our National Funding review for more information
7 min read Aug 15, 2025 -
How to save for a down payment
Saving the big chunk of cash you’ll need upfront can be tough. These tactics help.
7 min read Aug 13, 2025 -
Car depreciation: What it is and how it works
Depreciation can reduce your car’s value by between 10 and 15 percent each year.
5 min read Aug 11, 2025 -
What credit score do I need for a business loan?
Credit score requirements vary among business loans, but here are rough guidelines.
6 min read Aug 08, 2025