Credit is borrowed money that you promise to repay later, often with interest. It can help you buy things now and pay for them over time. Think of it as a tool—it’s neither good nor bad, but how you use it determines its impact on your financial life.
Avoid maxing out your credit card. Use no more than 30% of your available credit (e.g., if your limit is $1,000, try not to carry a balance over $300). This helps keep your credit score healthy.
Late payments hurt your credit score and lead to fees. Set up reminders or automatic payments to stay on track.
Credit is a loan, not extra cash. Only use it for things you can afford to pay off in full or over a short time.
Credit is there to help with planned purchases or emergencies—not to live beyond your means.
Your credit score impacts things like loan approvals, interest rates, and even rental applications.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by credit or debt, don’t hesitate to talk to a financial counselor or advisor. You don’t have to face it alone.
Your credit report is like a snapshot of your financial health. Take a close look for any mistakes like accounts you don’t recognize or wrong balances and report them right away. Catching and fixing errors can help your score.
If you have small balances across multiple cards, paying them off can help. This frees up your available credit and simplifies your finances. It’s also a quick win that can motivate you to keep going.
High-interest debt can drain your finances fast. Focus on paying it off first, even if it means smaller payments on other debts. This approach saves you money over time and helps boost your credit score.
Opening several accounts in a short time can temporarily lower your credit score and make you seem risky to lenders. Only apply for new credit when you really need it.
Payment history is one of the biggest factors in your credit score. Set up reminders or automatic payments to ensure you never miss a due date. Even one late payment can hurt your score.
Aim to use less than 30% of your total available credit. For example, if you have a $1,000 limit, try to keep your balance under $300. This shows lenders you’re responsible.
Treat your credit card as a financial tool, not extra cash. Only charge what you can afford to pay off each month, and aim to pay your balance in full to avoid costly interest charges. Credit should work for you, helping you build your score and achieve goals like renting an apartment or qualifying for a loan—not lead to debt you can’t manage.
Paying your bills on time is one of the most important habits for building good credit. Set up reminders or automatic payments to ensure you never miss a due date. Late payments can hurt your score and lead to extra fees, so consistency is key.
Building healthy credit is a marathon, not a sprint. Small, consistent steps—like keeping balances low and avoiding too many new accounts—can make a big difference over time. Be patient and stay focused on your financial goals.
Paying your bills on time is one of the most important habits for building good credit. Set up reminders or automatic payments to ensure you never miss a due date. Late payments can hurt your score and lead to extra fees, so consistency is key.