About Ben Luthi
Current Role
Personal finance writer
Expertise
Credit cards, consumer credit, student loans, personal loans, mortgage loans, investing, banking, budgeting, debt
Education
Bachelor's degree in business management from Brigham Young University
Personal Finance Experience
Ben became passionate about personal finance in college when he worked a full-time job and learned how to budget to avoid taking on student loans. He ended up with a little college debt but paid it off quickly.
While in school, he interned with Northwestern Mutual, selling life insurance and creating comprehensive financial plans for his clients. After graduation, he spent time working for a regional bank and a major auto lender.
When Ben became a full-time writer, he primarily covered credit cards, particularly points and miles. He's had nearly 100 credit cards over the years and earned tens of thousands of dollars in rewards. He also wrote extensively about student loans before becoming a full-time freelancer, at which point he expanded his expertise to all things personal finance.
Latest from Ben Luthi
Point-of-Sale Loans
In some cases, point-of-sale loans can offer convenient and inexpensive financing, but they can result in overspending and extra charges if you're not...
How to Refinance an Auto Loan
Refinancing an auto loan can have many benefits, but better terms aren't guaranteed. Here's what to consider and the steps you can take.
Can I Prequalify for a Home Equity Loan or HELOC?
Not all home equity lenders offer prequalification, but those that do make it easier to...
Do You Have to Pay Off a HELOC When Refinancing?
You may not need to pay off a HELOC when you refinance, but the subordination...
What Is a Credit Limit?
Your credit limit determines how much you can spend on a credit card. Here's how it's determined, how to check yours and whether...
Who Owns My Student Loans?
The company that owns your student loans may not be the company you applied with or even the company that services your debt....
Student Loans for Culinary School
Many culinary schools are eligible for federal and private student loans. Here's how to find out whether you can borrow money and how...
Student Loans for Veterinary School
If you're considering student loans for veterinary school, it's important to understand your options, how to apply, and how to pay them off.
Upstart Competitors and Alternatives for Personal Loans
Upstart offers flexible loan options for borrowers of all credit scores, but compare these Upstart...
Can You Refinance Student Loans Before You Graduate?
You may be able to refinance your student loans while you're still enrolled in school,...