How we make money

The tools are free and you never pay us. We're paid by some of the providers you can choose to hear from.

When a provider pays us

Only when you pick that provider on the “See who can help” screen and agree, by name, that they may contact you. If you don't pick anyone, nothing about you is shared and nobody pays us.

What payment can't buy

Providers can't pay to change what the tools tell you or which options fit you. We only show a provider when your numbers fit what they do and they're licensed in your state. The order is based on fit, and we say on screen when a provider pays us.

Options that don't pay us are always shown

Every match screen includes nonprofit credit counseling and a do-it-yourself plan. Neither pays us. Some topics, such as student loans, have no paid providers at all.