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Jenn Underwood

Personal Finance Writer

About

Credit cards and banking specialist Jenn Underwood brings over 16 years of personal finance experience to the table. After a decade of teaching courses in banking, debt reduction, budgeting and credit improvement, she moved into writing content and fintech product development. Over the last four years, Jenn has contributed to Forbes Advisor and a variety of fintech companies. She has served as a UX consultant, moderated discussions on open banking and been a guest on a number of personal finance podcasts.

Jenn Underwood is a credit cards and banking specialist who came to Forbes Advisor with a diverse finance background. She began teaching basic financial management to female entrepreneurs in Ghana. After grad school, she spent six years coaching college students in personal financial management. Building credit and avoiding credit card debt were the primary lesson topics. She later provided personal finance training within local government covering banking fees, credit cards, debt reduction, homeownership and credit scores. Over eight years, she wrote curriculum and facilitated over 500 workshops to nearly 7,500 participants.

Jenn is also experienced in the fintech sector. She’s served as an UX consultant and ghost written educational pieces on 401(k)s, credit cards, medical debt, predatory lending and FHA loans for fintech startups. She currently works in product for FinGoal, a fintech company providing transaction insights for banks, credit unions and card-linked offers.

She has been a regular contributor to Forbes Advisor for the last four years in the areas of banking, credit cards and personal finance. Jenn also has contributed to several podcasts covering rewards credit cards, behavioral economics and supporting parents in early financial education for their kids.

Expertise

  • Building credit
  • Debt reduction
  • Digital banking
  • Credit card rewards travel
  • Bank fees

Achievements

  • Over 8 years of personal finance training and curriculum development
  • Contributor to Forbes Advisor banking, credit card and personal finance, as well as several fintech startups
  • Moderated fintech webinar panel discussions for VentureBeat with Envestnet on Open Banking and Denver Startup Week Finding Money for Founders
  • Taught financial management to female entrepreneurs in Ghana
  • Currently working with FinGoal, a fintech providing transaction insights for banks, credit unions and card-linked offers

Other Publications

Education

Asbury Theological Seminary (M.A., Biblical Studies)

Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary (M.A., Christian Education)

Taylor University (B.A., English Literature)

Honors and Awards

Best in Show, Finovate 2022 Spring Demo

  • Best Sole Proprietorship Business Credit Cards Of December 2024

    Business credit cards are not reserved for large businesses. If you’ve launched your own business, getting one of the best credit cards for sole proprietorships could be a smart next step as you grow the business. These cards reward business...
    Best Sole Proprietorship Business Credit Cards Of December 2024
  • Best Navy Federal Credit Cards Of December 2024

    When it comes to choosing a credit card that aligns with your financial needs and lifestyle, Navy Federal Credit Union offers a diverse range of options. These cards cater to those serving in the armed forces, their families and Department...
    Best Navy Federal Credit Cards Of December 2024
  • VentureOne Rewards From Capital One Credit Card Review 2024

    Serious points and miles earners may find much more value in some of Capital One’s bigger hitters, but those who don’t like annual fees or extra gimmicks may be satisfied with the (). Earning with no earning caps, the card...
    VentureOne Rewards From Capital One Credit Card Review 2024
  • Best High-Limit Business Credit Cards Of December 2024

    Credit cards offer quick and convenient access to capital, but if you need a high line of credit, you’ll need to choose your card strategically. Business cards without a preset limit can also be a smart play—especially if you only...
    Best High-Limit Business Credit Cards Of December 2024
  • Aspiration Financial Review 2024

    Aspiration is a fintech (financial technology) company that touts itself as a climate-friendly banking alternative. It promises to keep customers’ deposits “fossil fuel free” and invests in environmentally and socially conscious companies. Aspiration is best for those wanting to bank...
    Aspiration Financial Review 2024
  • Best Credit Union Credit Cards Of December 2024

    Credit unions are nonprofit financial institutions with many of the same benefits and features as traditional banks. As they’re not seeking profits, they often pass on favorable rates and products to members, including credit cards. Here’s a look at the...
    Best Credit Union Credit Cards Of December 2024
  • Best Store Credit Cards Of December 2024

    A store card can be tempting, especially with deep discount offers on your first purchase or special financing on large expenses. But before you sign up for a store credit card, make sure you read the fine print and understand...
    Best Store Credit Cards Of December 2024
  • Best Credit Cards For No Credit Of December 2024

    A complete lack of credit history can be an obstacle to many goals, especially those that involve borrowed capital. Not only will you face difficulty making major car, house or business purchases without the ability to borrow, but landlords, phone...
    Best Credit Cards For No Credit Of December 2024
  • Best Bank Of America Credit Cards Of December 2024

    The best Bank of America credit cards have something for nearly everyone—from those rebuilding credit to students starting out to luxury travel cardholders. As one of the largest U.S. banks by assets, Bank of America, has the size and clout...
    Best Bank Of America Credit Cards Of December 2024
  • Best American Express Credit Cards Of December 2024

    Determining the best Amex credit card for your needs can be a challenging task, given the extensive range of options available today. American Express has evolved significantly since launching its inaugural charge card in 1958, now offering a diverse array...
    Best American Express Credit Cards Of December 2024
  • Best Credit Cards For Seniors And Retirees Of December 2024

    As you age, you may notice changes in your household budget. If you're retired, for instance, you may want to spend more time traveling and dining out. You may also notice your monthly medical expenses creeping up. Having a strong...
    Best Credit Cards For Seniors And Retirees Of December 2024
  • Best Credit Cards For Gamers Of December 2024

    While there are only a couple of cards targeted specifically at gamers, there are credit cards that can help you maximize your rewards on gaming purchases. Whether you’re shopping for a new console, game credit or paying for high-speed internet,...
    Best Credit Cards For Gamers Of December 2024
  • Best Gas Credit Cards For Bad Credit Of December 2024

    Americans on average drive more than 13,000 miles annually, making it likely you’re one of the millions who can benefit from saving money at the pump. While top rewards cards may be out of reach with poor credit history, there...
    Best Gas Credit Cards For Bad Credit Of December 2024
  • Best Credit Cards For Military Of December 2024

    In recognition of their service, military members are often eligible for significant perks and discounts. Credit cards are no exception. Serving in the military often involves unique financial and lifestyle challenges. Fortunately, there are several credit cards that address these...
    Best Credit Cards For Military Of December 2024
  • Best Wells Fargo Credit Cards Of December 2024

    Wells Fargo’s menu of credit cards will appeal to a wide variety of card seekers. Many of their cards have no annual fees and their rewards-earning cards are generally straightforward and easy to understand. Our picks for the best Wells...
    Best Wells Fargo Credit Cards Of December 2024
  • International Money Transfer: Best Ways To Send Money Internationally

    Remittances are increasingly popular, rising by 3.8% in 2023 to $669 billion, with the U.S. the leading sender. The World Bank notes an average transfer cost of more than 6%, meaning that a $1,000 transfer costs at least $60. To...
    International Money Transfer: Best Ways To Send Money Internationally
  • Best No Balance Transfer Fee Credit Cards Of December 2024

    If you’re carrying a balance on your credit card, the best no balance transfer fee credit cards can help you consolidate your card balances and pay off debt faster. Some balance transfer cards feature intro APR offers, allowing you to...
    Best No Balance Transfer Fee Credit Cards Of December 2024
  • How Amex Protects Authorized Users

    Building credit can seem like a daunting hill to climb, especially if you’re getting a late start. You may have heard that becoming an authorized user on a friend or loved one’s credit card could help—which is absolutely true. What...
    How Amex Protects Authorized Users
  • History of Savings Account Interest Rates

    Savings rates are high, but this is a fairly recent development. Throughout the 2000s and 2010s, rates trended low—nosediving after the 1980s and 1990s, decades during which savings interest rates were even higher than they are now. Looking at historical...
    History of Savings Account Interest Rates
  • Best Credit Cards That Offer Preapproval Or Prequalification In 2024

    Applying for a new credit card can come with concerns. Will you be approved? Will the APR be low enough? What will your credit limit be? Besides the unknowns, issuers make hard inquiries against your credit report(s) when evaluating your...
    Best Credit Cards That Offer Preapproval Or Prequalification In 2024
  • How To Get The Best Credit Cards For Streaming Services

    Streaming has become part of life. Instead of downloading MP3s to your laptop or organizing DVDs on your shelves, most households have switched to streaming services. In fact, a recent Deloitte digital media trends report found that 88% of consumers...
    How To Get The Best Credit Cards For Streaming Services
  • Why Now Is A Great Time To Consider A Credit Union Credit Card

    The not-for-profit nature of credit unions means your small, local credit union may not be filling your mailbox or Google feed with ads, but that doesn’t mean you should overlook them. Throughout their 115-year history in the U.S. credit unions...
    Why Now Is A Great Time To Consider A Credit Union Credit Card
  • Why I’d Never Choose The Chase Sapphire Preferred (Or Reserve For That Matter)—And Why I Use the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card (Among Others) Instead

    You’ve probably read countless articles praising the rewards and benefits of the . In fact, it made Forbes Advisor’s best credit cards and best travel credit cards lists, along with several other lists. But over the years I’ve turned my...
    Why I’d Never Choose The Chase Sapphire Preferred (Or Reserve For That Matter)—And Why I Use the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card (Among Others) Instead
  • PNC Cash Unlimited Visa Signature Credit Card Review 2024

    Yet another 2% cash-back card enters the ring and the is worth a look for anyone seeking a no annual fee cash-back card with a straightforward rewards structure. Additionally, those who need to pay off debt can benefit from the...
    PNC Cash Unlimited Visa Signature Credit Card Review 2024
  • Bellco Credit Union Blue Diamond Visa Signature Credit Card Review 2024

    Few credit unions offer credit cards as universally beneficial as the . Whether you want a flat-rate rewards card, need a balance transfer, want a lower APR or are looking for a card with no annual fee, this card has...
    Bellco Credit Union Blue Diamond Visa Signature Credit Card Review 2024
  • Signify Business Cash Card By Wells Fargo Review 2024

    The is a fantastic option for small businesses looking for a simple rewards structure and no annual fee. With no rewards caps, a substantial welcome bonus, and some travel perks, it’s a truly appealing card.
    Signify Business Cash Card By Wells Fargo Review 2024
  • Santander Ultimate Cash Back Card Review 2024

    The rewards may seem too good to be true. For the first 12 months or until you spend $20,000 the card offers some serious rewards potential. However, you’ll likely be disillusioned as a long-term cardholder with the little perks and...
    Santander Ultimate Cash Back Card Review 2024
  • Applied Bank Gold Preferred Secured Visa Credit Card Review 2024

    The promises a low fixed-rate APR and guaranteed approval, but it comes with a complex fee schedule. If you need to carry a balance, this card may be worth considering, but credit union credit cards may serve you just as...
    Applied Bank Gold Preferred Secured Visa Credit Card Review 2024
  • Huntington Voice Low Rate Credit Card Review 2024

    If your sole goal for a credit card is a low APR and you have great credit, the may work for you. But since a low APR isn't guaranteed, there are probably better cards to consider before applying.
    Huntington Voice Low Rate Credit Card Review 2024
  • Schwab Investor Card From American Express Review 2024

    The rewards potential on this card is limited. If you already hold an eligible investment account with Charles Schwab and want ways to grow your investment contributions, the could be a good option. However, if you’re not locked into Schwab...
    Schwab Investor Card From American Express Review 2024
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Top Picks From Jenn Underwood

  • Rainy Day Fund: What It Is And Why You Should Save For One
    Rainy Day Fund: What It Is And Why You Should Save For One

    by Jenn Underwood

    Read More

  • What Is A Credit Card Hardship Program?
    What Is A Credit Card Hardship Program?

    by Jenn Underwood

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  • What Is A Charge-Off?
    What Is A Charge-Off?

    by Jenn Underwood

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About

Credit cards and banking specialist Jenn Underwood brings over 16 years of personal finance experience to the table. After a decade of teaching courses in banking, debt reduction, budgeting and credit improvement, she moved into writing content and fintech product development. Over the last four years, Jenn has contributed to Forbes Advisor and a variety of fintech companies. She has served as a UX consultant, moderated discussions on open banking and been a guest on a number of personal finance podcasts.