credit utilization ratio

5 Things to Do Right Now to Boost Your 600 Credit Score

A 600 credit score isn't bad, exactly, but it's not terrific, either. Here's what you can do to improve it.

7 Warning Signs You're In Debt Denial

Denial can really throw your life off the rails. Denying your debt can be flat-out financially disastrous.

5 Credit Card Mistakes to Get Over by Age 30

If you're fast approaching the big 3-0, it's high-time to leave these credit card mistakes in the past.

The Millennials Guide to Avoiding Credit Card Debt

Millennials have a shared fear; credit card debt. But don't worry — it's entirely possible to use credit cards and avoid crippling debt.

9 Actions to Take When You're Denied a Credit Limit Increase

You want a higher credit limit, but your lender isn't on board. Some smart money moves now can solve this problem before you ask again.

How a Surprise Credit Limit Increase Can Harm You

You got a credit limit increase! Before you get charge-happy, there are a few important things to remember.

Debunking 8 Common Credit Score Myths

If you want good credit, you need a good credit score. But when it comes to getting a good rating, you need to separate facts from fiction.

How to Boost Your Credit With a Balance Transfer

A balance transfer can be a boon to your credit score. There are a few pitfalls to watch out for, too.

Can Too Many Credit Cards Hurt Your Credit Score?

You're responsible with your credit cards, but you sure have a lot of them. Is that a bad thing?

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?

3 Ways Retirees Can Build Credit

When you retire, many of life's little worries melt away. Unfortunately, worrying about your credit score doesn't.

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 Myths About Credit Cards That Won't Go Away

Credit cards have been around for a long time now — and so have all these myths about paying with plastic.

All the Ways Minimum Payments Are Evil

Credit card debt can be rough enough on its own. It's the minimum payments, though, that will really hurt you.

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.

5 Ways to Improve Your Credit Score Fast

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

The 7 Debt Payoffs That Boost Your Credit Score the Most

If you've got more than one kind of debt to repay, target the debt that hurts your credit score the most and watch your rating improve — fast.

Stop! Don't Cut Up Your Credit Cards

Put down the scissors, and step away from the plastic! You can catch up on credit card debt in much smarter ways than chopping up your cards.

This One Ratio Is the Key to a Good Credit Score

Understanding this key credit scoring ratio may be the secret to unlocking a higher credit score. The math is simple, and so is the strategy.