How Your Credit Score Works
Everyone knows your credit score is important, but very few people know how it actually works...
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Your credit score represents your creditworthiness, and it plays a big role in your financial life. A good credit score can help you qualify for loans at lower interest rates, save money on insurance, and get approved for apartments.
Here are some key tips on how to improve your credit score
Make all credit card payments on time and in full. This is the most important factor in your credit score. Even a single late payment can have a negative impact.
Keep your "utilization ratio" low. This is your credit card debt divided by your max limit allowed on the card. Aim to keep your utilization below 30%.
Establish a long credit history. The longer your credit history, the better. If you're new to credit, consider getting a secured credit card.
Have a mix of credit types. This shows lenders that you can responsibly manage different types of debt.
Avoid opening too many new credit accounts in a short period of time. This can trigger hard inquiries, which can temporarily lower your score.
Debunking some common credit score myths
"Checking your credit score regularly will lower it." This is false. Checking your credit score with a soft inquiry doesn't impact your score at all.
"Your income affects your credit score." This is also false. Your credit score is based on your credit history, not your income.
"Your credit score is the only factor that lenders consider when making a loan decision." This is not true. Lenders also consider other factors, such as your income, debt-to-income ratio, and employment history.
"Closing old credit accounts will improve your credit score." This is usually false. Closing old credit accounts can shorten your credit history, which can hurt your score.
"Debit cards can help you build a credit score." This is not true. Debit cards are not considered credit, so using them won't help your credit score.
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