
Can I buy a car before filing Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy?
Buying a car before bankruptcy is not always the best financial move.
Kellye Guinan is a Bankrate editor. She joined the team in 2024 with seven years of experience already under her belt covering everything from auto loans to debt consolidation. Her journey started the same as most people, with little knowledge of the finance world outside budgeting basics.
Kellye helps others navigate auto and personal loans. At her core, she believes people deserve to make the most of their money and feel confident managing their finances, so she strives to write about personal finance in ways everyone can understand. Her goal is to break down the most complex aspects of personal finance into manageable tips paired with expert advice.
In her free time, she loves studying languages and reading an absurd amount of books. You can often find her around Chattanooga drinking bubble tea and lounging by the river. And yes, she will talk your ear off about the importance of smart budgeting — even when she’s not working.
No one is born with an innate knowledge of finance, but everyone can learn it if they have access to the right tools. She wants to ensure the advice, articles and comparisons she works on are factual without being bogged down by jargon. When we approach difficult topics with empathy and understanding, we succeed.
The auto industry plans years in advance — how will tariffs play into it?
There is no minimum credit score, but lenders have varying minimum requirements.
There are many ways to build up credit even if you don’t qualify for a credit card.
Some car loans are unsecured. Here’s what that means for rates and requirements.
Simple interest auto loans can be a money saver when it comes to interest accrued.
Credit-building products can help you establish a healthier credit score.
First-time car buyer programs often have more flexible requirements.
A personal loan is used for financing large purchases or covering major expenses.