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Insights, guides, and updates to help you navigate loans and agreements.

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Decision Guides

Should You Lend Money to Family? The Complete Decision Framework

Facing a family loan request? Use our comprehensive decision framework to evaluate the risks, benefits, and alternatives before lending money to family members.

Jan 9, 2026Read
Calendar page showing January 2026 with financial planning notes, symbolizing fresh start for family loan planning
Financial Planning

New Year, New Loan: Family Loan Planning Guide for 2026

Start 2026 right with comprehensive family loan planning. Learn about current AFR rates, fresh start strategies, and how to optimize existing loans or start new ones this year.

Jan 3, 2026Read
Calculator and financial documents showing loan payment calculations
Loan Management

How to Recalculate Your Loan Balance After Extra Payments

Learn how to correctly recalculate interest and outstanding balances after making extra loan payments. Discover why traditional Excel spreadsheets fail and how modern tools simplify the process.

Dec 25, 2025Read
Person comparing loan management software options for family loans
Software Comparison

UsePigeon Alternative: Family Loan Tracker vs UsePigeon 2025 | Platform Shutting Down

Looking for a UsePigeon alternative? UsePigeon is shutting down December 2025. Compare Family Loan Tracker - one-time $99 payment vs UsePigeon's $19-$29/month subscription. See why families are switching.

Nov 24, 2025Read
Person comparing software solutions on laptop for family loan management
Software Comparison

Best ZimpleMoney Alternative for Family Loans | Family Loan Tracker vs ZimpleMoney 2026

Looking for a ZimpleMoney alternative? Compare Family Loan Tracker vs ZimpleMoney for family loan management in 2026. Save up to $8,204 with one-time payment vs monthly subscriptions. See which is better for your family loans.

Nov 11, 2025Read
Two people having a serious conversation across a table, representing a professional family loan discussion
Family Finance

How to Ask Family for a Loan: Complete Guide (2026)

Learn the right way to ask family for money in 2026 including preparation, presentation, documentation, and how to maintain relationships while borrowing from loved ones.

Oct 14, 2025Read
Person comparing documents representing bank loan versus family loan decision
Financial Planning

Bank Loan vs Family Loan: Complete Comparison Guide 2026

Comprehensive comparison between bank mortgages and family loans for 2026. Learn the costs, benefits, requirements, and how to choose the right option for your home purchase.

Oct 11, 2025Read
Person reviewing financial documents with concern, representing the importance of careful planning in family loans
Family Finance

7 Common Family Loan Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Learn the most common mistakes people make when lending money to family members and discover practical strategies to avoid these pitfalls while protecting relationships and finances.

Oct 11, 2025Read
Person signing a formal family loan agreement document with a pen
Legal Guide

How to Create a Family Loan Agreement (Free Template & Generator)

Create a professional family loan agreement in minutes with our free generator. Learn what to include, common mistakes to avoid, and how to protect both lender and borrower with proper documentation.

Oct 5, 2025Read
Family discussing mortgage loan options around a table with documents and calculator
Financial Planning

Types of Family Mortgage Loans: A Complete Guide to Repayment Structures

Explore different types of family mortgage loans including annuity, linear, and interest-only structures. Learn which repayment method works best for your family lending situation.

Oct 5, 2025Read
Financial planning documents and calculator for family loan tax considerations
Tax Guide

Family Loans and Taxes: Complete 2026 Guide (IRS Rules & Requirements)

Navigate the complex tax rules for family loans in 2026 including current AFR rates, minimum interest rates, reporting requirements, gift tax implications, and how to properly document loans for the IRS.

Oct 1, 2025Read
Comparison between spreadsheet and modern loan tracking software interface
Software Comparison

Loan Tracker vs Excel: Why Spreadsheets Fall Short

Discover why dedicated loan tracking software outperforms Excel spreadsheets for managing personal and family loans, with detailed comparisons and real-world examples.

Sep 20, 2025Read
Two people signing a document at a desk representing formal agreement and trust in family loan setup
Legal Guide

How to Setup a Family Loan Agreement (2026 US Guide)

A comprehensive guide to creating formal loan agreements between family members in 2026, including essential elements, current tax considerations, and relationship management.

Sep 4, 2025Read