Have you ever forgotten to pay a bill, only to unexpectedly watch your credit take a hit? It stinks. And unfortunately, it ...

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 ...

Avoid common credit mistakes that tank your score. Expert tips show how consistent habits, not income, build strong credit.

SEATTLE — A strong credit score is a key that can unlock opportunities, like lower interest rates and better borrowing terms. “It’s a three-digit number that determines how creditors, lenders and ...

Credit scores don’t matter unless you’re trying to get a loan, rent an apartment, secure insurance, buy a home, avoid paying a deposit to utility companies, or even land some jobs. OK. Unless you’re ...

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 ...

Think of your credit score as your money report card. Banks and lenders look at it when you apply for a credit card, a car ...

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 ...

From canceling old cards to cosigning loans, these surprising missteps can quietly hurt your score. Learn what affects your credit (and what to do about it) — from the experts.

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 ...

A score of 750 or above is generally considered good, unlocking access to the best loans and credit cards at attractive rates.

Americans' credit scores can have a dramatic impact on their lives, with a low score potentially delaying homeownership, marriage, starting a family, or even preventing them from renting an apartment.