How one woman used AI to wipe out $12K in debt—and how you can too
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Debt can feel like a heavy weight that just won’t lift, especially when it keeps growing month after month.
For many Americans, unexpected expenses like medical bills or time off work can quickly spiral out of control.
But what if there were a tool available day or night to help you create a plan and stay on track?
That’s exactly how 35-year-old Jenn Allan from Delaware tackled over $12,000 in debt—with the help of artificial intelligence.
Her story shows that with the right guidance and mindset, anyone can take steps toward financial freedom.
Jenn’s financial challenges began after a traumatic birth experience left her newborn daughter in the NICU.
The result was $23,000 in debt from medical costs and lost income during recovery.
Like many people, Jenn felt unsure of how to even begin dealing with the bills.
But she wasn’t entirely on her own—she’d already been using ChatGPT for her work in real estate, helping with marketing, admin tasks, and writing.
So she decided to use the same tool to help with her finances.
“I already use ChatGPT every day for my business,” Jenn said.
“So when I decided to finally face my debt, it made sense to include ChatGPT in that conversation too.”
Jenn told ChatGPT, “I’m in credit card debt. I don’t know how much, but I need to do something about it and don’t know where to start.”
In response, the AI generated a 30-day challenge with daily tasks to help her get organized, cut costs, and start earning extra money.
Some of the tips were straightforward—canceling subscriptions, switching phone plans, and meal planning.
Others were more creative, like searching for unclaimed money or selling junk mail to companies that pay for financial solicitations.
Even digging through couch cushions added up—she found $50!
Each day gave her a new, manageable task, and that structure helped Jenn stay focused and motivated.
Jenn didn’t just receive to-do lists.
ChatGPT provided her with encouragement, check-ins, and a sense of progress.
She described it as having a “supportive best friend” cheering her on.
The AI helped her set up a debt tracker in Google Sheets and suggested calling credit card companies to request lower interest rates—a tip that’s easy to forget but can make a big difference.
Most importantly, it helped shift her mindset from defeated to determined.
Jenn’s approach might have been powered by AI, but the strategies she used can work for anyone. Here are some of the ideas that helped her—and might help you too:
Beyond the dollars and cents, Jenn said the biggest change came from her attitude.
With ChatGPT’s daily encouragement, she stopped feeling helpless and started feeling capable.
She also shared her progress on social media, which inspired others to take action too.
“A lot of comments were from people saying they were in debt too,” she said. “That motivated them to make a payment or start paying attention to their finances.”
You don’t need to be a tech expert to use ChatGPT or other AI tools for your finances.
Jenn suggests starting with a simple question, like asking for help with budgeting or debt payoff strategies.
Be open about your situation—the more information you provide, the better the AI can guide you.
You can even request a daily challenge to stay consistent.
Track your progress, celebrate small wins, and don’t be afraid to ask for encouragement when things feel tough.
A quick note on safety: While tools like ChatGPT can be incredibly helpful for brainstorming and planning, always be cautious about sharing sensitive personal or financial information online. Use general details when possible, and never input things like account numbers or social security numbers into any AI tool.
Read next: Living on credit: The tough choices many seniors face today
Have you ever used technology to help with money matters? What’s the most creative way you’ve saved or earned extra cash? Or do you have your own story of tackling debt and getting back on your feet?
We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Let’s support one another on the path to financial peace—one small step at a time.
For many Americans, unexpected expenses like medical bills or time off work can quickly spiral out of control.
But what if there were a tool available day or night to help you create a plan and stay on track?
That’s exactly how 35-year-old Jenn Allan from Delaware tackled over $12,000 in debt—with the help of artificial intelligence.
Her story shows that with the right guidance and mindset, anyone can take steps toward financial freedom.
With the help of AI, one woman took charge of her finances—proving that small steps, smart tools, and daily motivation can make a big difference. Image Source: Pexels / Airam Dato-on.
How it started: a medical crisis and mounting bills
Jenn’s financial challenges began after a traumatic birth experience left her newborn daughter in the NICU.
The result was $23,000 in debt from medical costs and lost income during recovery.
Like many people, Jenn felt unsure of how to even begin dealing with the bills.
But she wasn’t entirely on her own—she’d already been using ChatGPT for her work in real estate, helping with marketing, admin tasks, and writing.
So she decided to use the same tool to help with her finances.
“I already use ChatGPT every day for my business,” Jenn said.
“So when I decided to finally face my debt, it made sense to include ChatGPT in that conversation too.”
Also read: Struggling with debt? These 5 categories might qualify for forgiveness
A personalized 30-day debt plan—created by AI
Jenn told ChatGPT, “I’m in credit card debt. I don’t know how much, but I need to do something about it and don’t know where to start.”
In response, the AI generated a 30-day challenge with daily tasks to help her get organized, cut costs, and start earning extra money.
Some of the tips were straightforward—canceling subscriptions, switching phone plans, and meal planning.
Others were more creative, like searching for unclaimed money or selling junk mail to companies that pay for financial solicitations.
Even digging through couch cushions added up—she found $50!
Each day gave her a new, manageable task, and that structure helped Jenn stay focused and motivated.
Also read: Thinking of using your 401(k) to pay off credit card debt? Here’s what it could really cost you
A financial coach in your pocket
Jenn didn’t just receive to-do lists.
ChatGPT provided her with encouragement, check-ins, and a sense of progress.
She described it as having a “supportive best friend” cheering her on.
The AI helped her set up a debt tracker in Google Sheets and suggested calling credit card companies to request lower interest rates—a tip that’s easy to forget but can make a big difference.
Most importantly, it helped shift her mindset from defeated to determined.
Also read: The hidden debt crisis: see where Americans are struggling the most
Smart tips you can try today
Jenn’s approach might have been powered by AI, but the strategies she used can work for anyone. Here are some of the ideas that helped her—and might help you too:
- Track your debt: Use a spreadsheet or notebook to list your balances, minimum payments, and interest rates.
- Cancel unused services: If you’re not using that streaming subscription or gym membership, it’s time to let it go.
- Sell unused items: From furniture to clothing, chances are you have something worth listing online.
- Look for unclaimed money: Visit your state’s website to see if you’re owed forgotten funds.
- Try a side hustle: Jenn signed up for services like User Testing and Rover for extra income.
- Switch providers: Compare prices for phone service, insurance, and utilities—you might be overpaying.
- Redeem old rewards: Don’t let gift cards, cash-back points, or loyalty perks go to waste.
- Plan your meals: Cook based on what’s already in your pantry to avoid last-minute takeout.
- Negotiate with creditors: Many companies will lower your interest rate if you ask.
- Be creative: Jenn even sold junk mail—there’s more money-making potential than you might think.
Jenn Allan used ChatGPT to pay off over $12,000 in debt—turning daily AI guidance into real-life financial progress. Image Source: Jen Allan / The Daily Mail.
Also read: At 80, he’s still working—just to pay his late wife’s $80,000 hospital debt
A shift in mindset—and a ripple effect
Beyond the dollars and cents, Jenn said the biggest change came from her attitude.
With ChatGPT’s daily encouragement, she stopped feeling helpless and started feeling capable.
She also shared her progress on social media, which inspired others to take action too.
“A lot of comments were from people saying they were in debt too,” she said. “That motivated them to make a payment or start paying attention to their finances.”
Also read: Shocking debt trap: How the Rule of 72 formula reveals the true cost of your credit card balance
Want to try it for yourself?
You don’t need to be a tech expert to use ChatGPT or other AI tools for your finances.
Jenn suggests starting with a simple question, like asking for help with budgeting or debt payoff strategies.
Be open about your situation—the more information you provide, the better the AI can guide you.
You can even request a daily challenge to stay consistent.
Track your progress, celebrate small wins, and don’t be afraid to ask for encouragement when things feel tough.
A quick note on safety: While tools like ChatGPT can be incredibly helpful for brainstorming and planning, always be cautious about sharing sensitive personal or financial information online. Use general details when possible, and never input things like account numbers or social security numbers into any AI tool.
Read next: Living on credit: The tough choices many seniors face today
Have you ever used technology to help with money matters? What’s the most creative way you’ve saved or earned extra cash? Or do you have your own story of tackling debt and getting back on your feet?
We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Let’s support one another on the path to financial peace—one small step at a time.
