credit score

5 Steps to Getting Excellent Credit

An excellent credit score is within your reach! These healthy money habits will get you there — and probably faster than you think.

How to Make Ends Meet When You're House Poor

Home is meant to be a haven. If it's leaving you racked with debt (and stress), it's time to consider these options.

Pay These 6 Bills First When Money Is Tight

If your monthly budget just went bust, make sure to prioritize these important bill payments first.

How to Close a Credit Card Without Dinging Your Credit Score

You don't use that credit card anymore — but canceling might crush your credit score. Try these smarter methods of ditching that card.

5 Financial Mistakes That Won't Hurt Your Credit Score

It might feel like every little money misstep gets reported to the credit bureaus, but sometimes, you're in the clear (at least with the bureaus).

Make These 5 Money Moves Before Applying for a Mortgage

It might seem like everyone under the sun gets approved for a mortgage, but don't be fooled — home loans are no joke. Make these money moves before applying.

4 Questions to Ask Before Getting a Credit Increase

Before you ask your credit card provider for a limit increase, take the time to ask yourself a few questions, too.

5 Money Moves to Make Before Moving Out on Your Own

Before striking out on your own, set yourself up for financial success while Mom and Dad have still got your back.

How to Protect Yourself From Predatory Lending

"No credit? No problem!" At least, that's what a predatory lender might want you to think.

Why the Age of Your Credit History Matters

Your credit history is like a fine wine — the longer it matures, the better it is.

Is an All-Cash Diet Right for You?

Budget in the red again? Quell your craving to overspend with plastic with an all-cash diet instead.

6 Credit Card Mistakes That Could Be Ruining Your Credit

Your credit score is vital to your financial health. Don't let these common credit card errors tank it.

Avoid These 6 Mistakes Newbies Make With Their First Credit Cards

Getting your first credit card allows you to enter the financial mainstream. Be sure to avoid these common mistakes that can cost you.

4 Reasons Credit Is Safer Than Debit

If you're prone to overspending, a debit card may be your best bet. For everyone else, credit cards are the safer choice.

Why Your Credit Score Matters in Retirement

Just because you've left the working world behind, doesn't mean you can leave the credit world behind. Here's how to keep your credit score golden, too.

5 After the Holidays Moves Your Credit Score Will Thank You For

If the holidays put a hurting on your budget, there's no need to panic. These post-December moves will keep your credit in tip-top shape.

8 Money-Smart Things I Wish I'd Asked Santa For

You wasted your Dear Santa letters on Barbies and video games. Don't you wish you'd asked for these things instead?

Why You Shouldn't Panic If Your Credit Score Drops

If your credit score takes a tumble, don't panic. Find out why your score may have taken a hit — and how you can bounce back.

7 Apps That Monitor Your Credit for You

There's an app for everything these days — even credit monitoring. Now there's really no excuse!

8 Credit Repair Mistakes That Will Cost You

So you're ready take on your awful credit score. Be careful — making these false steps could actually do more harm than good.