The Borrower’s Desk explains loans, credit, tax credits and government benefits in plain language. Some articles start after a lender has said no. Others start from a benefit letter or a tax form, and work out what the numbers mean for one household.
Everything here is written by James Im, who has worked in loan consulting for 13 years.
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Trump Account $1,000: Your Child May Be Enrolled, but You Still Have to Claim the Money
The IRS began automatically enrolling eligible children in Trump Accounts on October 1, 2026, but parents still have to activate the account and elect the $1,000 deposit. Who qualifies, how to claim it after missing April 15, and the $5,000…
Browse by topic
Loans & Credit
Credit scores, personal loans, debt, and what to do after a denial.
Investing
Trading apps, dividends, and starting with small amounts.
Government Assistance
Grants, benefits and rental help, and how to apply.
Taxes
Tax credits, deductions and the forms that claim them.
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529 Contributions Before December 31: State Tax Deductions and Deadlines for 2026
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Turned down for a loan? Start here
- The Score Said No, the Property Said Yes
- Your Loan Was Denied. What the Letter Tells You and What to Do Next
- How to Raise Your Credit Score by 100 Points
- How to Remove Collections From Your Credit Report
- Can You Get a Loan With No Proof of Income?
About the author
James Im has advised borrowers for 13 years on secured and unsecured lending, collateral and debt restructuring. His practice is in South Korea, and he writes about the parts of lending that work the same way in most markets. Read more
Articles on this site are general information, not financial advice. Loan terms, program rules and tax figures change, so confirm current numbers with the lender or agency before you act.