credit bureaus

I Checked My Credit Score in 11 Places — Here's What I Learned

Why pay $15 for a credit score when you can get one for free? Turns out not all credit scores are the same.

How a Goodwill Letter Can Save Your Credit Score

One money mishap can wreck your credit score. A simple goodwill letter just might help.

How to Read a Credit Report

You're ready to check your annual free credit report. Now — just how exactly should you read one of these things?

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.

Why the Age of Your Credit History Matters

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

5 Ways to Improve Your Credit Score Fast

If your FICO score needs some TLC, these strategies will get it whipped into shape — ASAP.

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.