Having a good credit score is essential for accessing loans, credit cards with better benefits, and even better rental opportunities. Your score reflects your financial history and how you manage your ...

Credit scores are based on formulas that take multiple contributing factors into account. The time it takes to raise your credit score depends upon the reason(s) that your score is lower in the first ...

Negative entries like late payments and charge-offs stay on your credit report for seven years — this is what's known as the ...

Perfect credit, or even really good credit, opens doors for American consumers. Better interest rates on loans. Better odds of renting an apartment or landing a job. Lower insurance premiums. But how ...

More than a third of all Americans have a credit score below 670, according to Experian. And many don’t realize what’s hurting their credit until they’re denied a loan or hit with higher costs. Your ...

Raising your credit score makes banks more likely to approve you for a mortgage, car loan or credit card. Plus, you could qualify for a lower interest rate that saves you thousands of dollars. Getting ...

Could your debt be reduced or forgiven? Take our financial relief quiz. There is nothing like the thrill of paying off a debt. However, that excitement can quickly wane, turning into impatience as you ...

Beverly is a writer, editor, and paralegal specializing in personal finance and tax law. She covers personal financial and legal topics, as well as tax breaks, tax preparation software, and tax law ...

Debt is a double-edged sword. When wielded wisely, it can open doors to opportunities such as homeownership, education and financial flexibility. Mismanaged, it can weigh you down and derail your ...

Good credit is the gateway to financial power — from lower mortgage rates and cheaper car insurance to premium rewards credit cards and nicer apartments. But many Americans are mystified by their ...

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Does unemployment affect your credit score? Unemployment won't directly affect your credit score. Your credit score is a reflection of your history with credit accounts, not your situation. But if ...