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Andrew Latham

Andrew is the Content Director for SuperMoney, a Certified Financial Planner®, and a Certified Personal Finance Counselor. He loves to geek out on financial data and translate it into actionable insights everyone can understand. His work is often cited by major publications and institutions, such as Forbes, U.S. News, Fox Business, SFGate, Realtor, Deloitte, and Business Insider.

articles from Andrew

1346 posts

FreeTaxUSA vs Liberty Tax: Which Tax Service Is Best for You?

Published 09/10/2025 by Andrew Latham

FreeTaxUSA and Liberty Tax both provide tax preparation services, but they differ widely in pricing and approach. FreeTaxUSA is an affordable online-only platform with free federal filing and flat-rate state returns. Liberty Tax combines online software with in-person tax offices, known for its face-to-face support and seasonal promotions. The right choice depends on whether you want maximum affordability or local, in-person assistance.

FreeTaxUSA and Jackson Hewitt both help taxpayers file returns, but they take very different approaches. FreeTaxUSA is a low-cost online service with free federal filing and affordable state returns. Jackson Hewitt, on the other hand, is known for its nationwide in-person tax offices, satisfaction guarantees, and refund advances. Choosing between them depends on whether you want the lowest cost or the reassurance of in-person tax preparation.

FreeTaxUSA and H&R Block are two popular tax filing platforms, but they serve different audiences. FreeTaxUSA is known for its ultra-low pricing and free federal filing, while H&R Block provides more robust support options, including in-person filing at nationwide offices, mobile access, and stronger audit defense. The best choice depends on whether you value affordability or comprehensive support.

What Is the Cost of an HEI/HEA?

Published 09/09/2025 by Andrew Latham

The cost of a Home Equity Investment (HEI) or Home Equity Agreement (HEA) includes upfront fees such as appraisal and closing costs, plus the provider’s share of your home’s appreciation when you exit. While upfront expenses are usually modest, settlement costs can be significant if your property value rises sharply.

What Are the Most Common Use Cases for an HEI/HEA?

Published 09/09/2025 by Andrew Latham

Home Equity Investments (HEIs) and Home Equity Agreements (HEAs) are flexible tools that homeowners use for debt consolidation, renovations, medical expenses, retirement planning, and even real estate investing. Unlike traditional loans, HEIs/HEAs don’t require monthly payments, making them appealing for homeowners with strong equity but limited cash flow.

What Happens When an HEI/HEA Term Ends?

Published 09/09/2025 by Andrew Latham

Home Equity Investments (HEIs) and Home Equity Agreements (HEAs) typically last 10–30 years. When the term ends, homeowners must settle the agreement by selling their home, refinancing, or buying out the provider. Planning ahead ensures you’re prepared for the financial obligations that come with maturity.

What Are My Exit Options for an HEI/HEA?

Published 09/09/2025 by Andrew Latham

Home Equity Investments (HEIs) and Home Equity Agreements (HEAs) provide homeowners with cash today in exchange for a share of future home value. When the agreement ends, you have several exit options: sell your home, refinance, or buy out the provider. Understanding each option helps you plan ahead and avoid surprises when the term ends.

Will I Have Refinancing Challenges if I Get an HEI/HEA?

Published 09/09/2025 by Andrew Latham

Having a Home Equity Investment (HEI) or Home Equity Agreement (HEA) doesn’t prevent you from refinancing your mortgage, but it can create extra steps. Some lenders may require provider consent or repayment of the HEI before refinancing. Planning ahead helps you avoid surprises and ensures a smoother refinancing process.

How Do HEI/HEA Companies Set Appraisal Values on Homes?

Published 09/09/2025 by Andrew Latham

Home Equity Investment (HEI) and Home Equity Agreement (HEA) providers use independent, third-party appraisals and automated valuation models (AVMs) to determine your home’s fair market value. These practices are standardized and regulated, so companies cannot set values arbitrarily. Appraisal accuracy matters because it affects how much funding you can access and how settlement is calculated at the end of your agreement.

How Do HEI/HEA Agreements Work?

Published 09/09/2025 by Andrew Latham

A Home Equity Investment (HEI) and a Home Equity Agreement (HEA) both let you access your home’s equity without adding new monthly repayment obligations. The difference is that an HEI refers to the product type (the investment a company makes in your property), while an HEA is the contract you sign with a provider. Both work by giving you cash today in exchange for a share of your home’s future value when you sell, refinance, or buy out the agreement.

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