Credit management
Why did my credit score drop after paying off debt?
It seems counterintuitive, but paying off debt can hurt your credit in certain cases. Here’s…
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Latest Posts
Credit management
What is credit counseling, and how can it help you?
A nonprofit credit counseling agency serves as an objective resource to help you get a…
Education
Can you close a credit card with a balance?
When you close an account with a balance, you won’t have to pay a higher…
Credit management
How to check your credit score
Keeping an eye on your credit score can help you learn how to improve it…
Card advice
Credit score needed for the BankAmericard
If you’re looking for a balance transfer credit card with a long interest-free period, the…
Credit management
What is a fair credit score?
A “fair” credit score can help you qualify for a credit card, but you may…
Credit management
Should I pay off my credit card all at once?
Paying off your credit card all at once can raise your credit score but if…
Credit management
What is a good credit score?
A high credit score can help you qualify for the best interest rates and terms…
Card advice
What credit score do I need for the Chase Ink Business Unlimited?
While this is a solid option for business owners, not everyone can qualify due to…
Card advice
Credit score required for the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards card
Find out what credit score you need to qualify — and what to do should…
Credit management
Will it hurt my credit score if I never use my credit card?
Not using your credit card doesn’t hurt your score. However, your issuer may eventually close…
Credit management
What to do if you have no credit score
If you're finding doors are currently closed for you because you no credit or a…
Credit management
Will becoming an authorized user help my credit?
Becoming an authorized user on someone else’s credit card can help you strengthen your credit…
Education
What is a charge-off and how does it affect your credit?
A charge-off is an uncollected credit card balance that has been overdue so long that…
Credit management
Why is a credit score important?
A good credit score is important if you plan to borrow for a big-ticket item…
Credit management
Will paying down my credit card balance reduce my minimum payment?
Paying down your credit card balance is the best way to reduce your minimum payment…
Education
Experian Boost: How to sign up, how soon it ‘boosts’ score
Experian Boost allows your positive history of paying utility and phone bills to be included…
Credit management
How do automatic bill payments affect your credit score?
Consistently paying your bills on time is the most important credit scoring factor, no matter…
Credit management
Experian Boost doesn’t recognize my utility providers. What can I do?
According to Experian, there are two steps you can take if your utility accounts are…
Credit management
How a closed account affects your credit score
Closing a credit card account can hurt your score by increasing your credit utilization ratio…
Education
Do preapproved credit card offers affect your credit?
Everyone knows that if you ask for credit, your score takes a hit. But what…
Credit management
Why does a hard inquiry hurt your credit score?
A hard inquiry – which occurs when a consumer applies for a credit account –…
Card advice
Credit score needed for the Capital One Venture Rewards Card
Looking to plan a big trip or boost your travel earnings and wanting to invest…
Credit management
How to get a credit card with bad credit
You can get a credit card even with bad credit, but practicing responsible credit card…
Credit management
What happens to unpaid credit card debt after seven years?
Most of us don't intend to get in over our heads with credit cards, but…
Credit management
Does having the wrong address on your credit report hurt your score?
Addresses are part of the identifying information in your credit report, but they don't affect…
Credit management
How getting married affects your credit score
If you're planning on taking out a mortgage or other large loan with your partner,…
Credit management
How long does it take to recover from a bankruptcy?
Declaring bankruptcy can damage your credit significantly. Here's what you need to know about declaring…
Credit management
What credit score do you start with?
If you're hoping to open any new accounts or even rent an apartment, you should…
Credit management
Which credit score matters most?
There are multiple credit scores and more than one credit bureau reporting on your financial…
Credit management
What is the difference between a credit report and a credit score?
A credit report is a detailed snapshot of your financial life, showing both how you…
Education
Should you consider a credit repair service?
When it comes to credit repair, anything that can legitimately be done, you can do…
Credit management
Is it possible to remove inquiries from your credit report?
A credit inquiry generally cannot be removed from your credit report unless it's the result…