Credit Basics
Credit is your financial reputation. Lenders, landlords, and even some employers use your credit history to gauge how reliable you are with money. Building and protecting good credit can save you thousands over your lifetime.
Why Credit Matters
Determines approval for loans, credit cards, and rental applications
Affects your interest rates — better credit = lower rates
Can impact insurance premiums and job opportunities
Resources
Free + authorized by Federal Law
Annual Credit Report
Check your Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax scores weekly
How to Build & Maintain Good Credit
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Get free reports at one of the places listed above regularly and watch out for any errors.
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Your payment history is the #1 factor in your credit score.
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Aim to use less than 30% of your available credit (lower is better).
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Older accounts help your credit age.