credit history

How to Build Credit Without Using Credit Cards

You need to build your credit history, but you want to do it without traditional credit cards. Okay! Here's where you can start.

Avoid These 5 Common Mistakes While Rebuilding Your Credit

It takes hard work to give your credit score a kick in the pants. Don't sabotage it with these five screw-ups.

Your Bad Credit Isn't the End of the World

High credit card debt and a low credit score are thought of as the proverbial nail in the personal finance coffin. Not so! It really isn't the end of the world.

Never Borrow Money for These 5 Buys

You really, really want it... and oh, that credit offer just looks so tempting! But be forewarned — you'll regret it if you buy it.

What to Expect When You're Expecting a Huge Credit Card Bill

That hefty credit card bill finding it's way to your mailbox is packing a punch — and to more than just your wallet.

Is It Ever Okay to Cosign a Loan?

Conventional wisdom says cosigning a loan is a major money no-no. But are there exceptions?

Here's Why You Shouldn't Freak Out If You Miss a Payment Due Date

That bill's due date has come… and passed. How long do you have before it's "officially" late?

Here's Why Credit Scores and Reports Are Not the Same

Do you know the difference between a credit score and a credit history? You need to — here's how to break it down.

Stop Making These 5 Costly Credit Card Mistakes

It's hard to get by without a credit card or two. They're convenient and critical to building credit — as long as you avoid some common mistakes.

7 Ways to Rent An Apartment With Bad Credit

Bad or low credit makes everything hard — even renting an apartment. Here's how you can still find a place when your credit is weak.

3 Ways Your Dog Is Ruining Your Credit Score

Man's best friend may be loving and loyal — when he isn't chewing up your shoes, or your credit. Avoid these common credit score bite marks.

7 Ways to Increase Your Credit Score Quickly

Don't let a low credit score hold you back. You can get it on the upswing — faster than you might think.

4 Reasons Why You're Too Old — Or Too Young — For a Mortgage Loan

Lenders can't use your age as a factor when deciding to give you a loan, but that doesn't mean age doesn't matter. Here's why.

Are You a Credit Invisible? Get Seen by Building Your Score

A credit history shows lenders what kind of borrower you are, and without one, you may as well be invisible. Start showing lenders who you are!

6 Secured Credit Card Facts to Remember

A secured credit card is a great way to repair (or build) credit. Before you sign up, be sure you understand the basics.

4 Reasons Your Credit Score May Improve Soon

To help those with little credit history, the bureaus now use more kinds of payments in their profiles. How much will your credit improve?

5 Unexpected Benefits of Secured Credit Cards

Secured credit cards can help build or rebuild credit — but you may be surprised by the other benefits they offer, too.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Secured Credit Card

It takes credit to build credit — one of life's great ironies. To build a good rating, don't be afraid to turn to a good secured credit card.

Back in Debt? Here's How to Pay it Off for Good

After conquering debt, it's tough to find yourself back in the hole. Have faith! You can pay off your debt again — this time for good.

15 Surprising Ways Bad Credit Can Hurt You

We all know that bad credit makes borrowing hard, but it can also crimp your lifestyle in other ways. Live a fuller life with better credit!