“I generally encourage people to make good on debts when they have enough money to repay them. But once a delinquency has been reported to a collection agency, paying it off won't help your FICO score. The damage has already been done, and the blemish will remain on your credit report for seven years.”

American financial advisor and television personality She became a leading voice in personal finance through her bestselling books and syndicated TV show, where she offered straightforward advice on budgeting, investing, and debt management. Her blunt, no-nonsense approach made financial literacy accessible to everyday Americans.