Jill Chafin, staff writer for LendingTree

Jill A. Chafin

Staff Writer

Jill A. Chafin is a staff writer at LendingTree, where she covers small business solutions, credit cards, insurance, student loans and more. Jill focuses on explaining complex financial topics with a speciality in writing in-depth but easy-to-understand content guides.

As a former business owner, Jill is passionate about entrepreneurial tips, tax strategies and bookkeeping systems — basically anything that will help business owners devote more time to their trade.

Before joining LendingTree in 2022, Jill freelanced for various publications, including the Motley Fool and Life Savvy.

When not researching personal finance tips (like maximizing credit card rewards to score free flights), Jill’s busy traveling, working on her novels, teaching and performing circus arts — and juggling life with her two kids.

Specialties

  • Credit card reviews
  • Credit card rewards programs
  • Small business lender reviews
  • Small business tax and bookkeeping strategies

Achievements

  • 7+ years of personal finance experience
  • 20+ years freelance writing and editing experience
  • 200+ articles written and edited for LendingTree
  • Refined product reviews for various loans and credit cards featured on LendingTree
  • Provided expertise to LendingTree’s small business content
  • Wrote the novel Shaken, scheduled for publication in March 2025

Education

  • Bachelor of Arts, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
  • Advanced diploma in creative writing from Te Pūkenga (New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology)

Jill’s favorite credit cards

“My parents live in New Zealand so I’m obsessed with Chase Ultimate Rewards®. I’ve managed to earn enough points to fly my family of four to the other side of the world three times now — only paying taxes and fees each time.

My favorite all-time card is the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card. While it has an annual fee, it allows you to combine all of your Chase Ultimate Reward points and transfer to partner airlines. Plus, you get a $50 hotel credit every year.

Another great card is the Chase Freedom Flex℠ — there’s no annual fee and I love the rotating 5% categories.”

Articles by Jill A. Chafin

What is an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) or Student Aid Index?

The Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is a number calculated by the government and helps determine how much financial aid you could receive for the upcoming... read more

How Does Student Debt Affect the Economy?

Among the economic benefits of student loans is that they allow more people to get a higher education. But there are definitely negative effects of... read more

Can I Use a Personal Credit Card for Business Expenses?

If you’re concerned about the legal implications of personal credit cards used for business expenses, rest assured it’s an acceptable and fairly common practice. However,... read more

Best Alternative Lending Options

If you’re struggling to get a small business loan from a traditional bank or credit union, alternative lending might help you secure the capital you... read more

The Complete Guide to Federal Student Loans

For students who need to fund their college education, federal student loans are more advantageous than private student loans. The reasons include lower interest rates,... read more

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