Contributor
Sarah Chen
Senior Consumer Finance Reporter
B.A. Economics, U. of Michigan. Former CFPB enforcement analyst.
Sarah covers consumer debt, lending practices and regulatory enforcement. Before joining The Ledger she spent six years at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, where she investigated debt-relief firms and credit-reporting violations.
Bibliography · 4 articles
- Jul 14, 2026
Chapter 7 vs Chapter 13 Bankruptcy - Which Fits?
Chapter 7 offers a fast discharge of unsecured debt but may require the liquidation of nonexempt assets. Chapter 13 creates a multi-year repayment plan that can help homeowners catch up on arrears and protect property. Eligibility for either path depends on income levels, asset equity, and the ability to maintain monthly payments.
- Jul 8, 2026
Best Way to Consolidate Credit Card Debt
Borrowers can consolidate high-interest debt through personal loans, 0% balance transfer cards, or nonprofit debt management plans. The best choice depends on credit scores and the ability to maintain a fixed repayment schedule without accruing new balances. Choosing the wrong strategy can lead to excessive fees or increased financial risk if the original cards are used again.
- Jul 3, 2026
Settlement Firms Promise 50% Cuts. The Math Is Rarely That Simple.
A review of 1,200 enrolled accounts shows the average consumer paid roughly 78 cents on the dollar after fees, taxes and continued interest — and watched their credit score fall by an average of 102 points along the way.
- Jun 18, 2026
Debt Settlement: How It Actually Works
The mechanics of stopping payments, accumulating a settlement fund, negotiating with creditors, and absorbing the tax and credit consequences that follow.