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Credit Score

All articles tagged with #credit score

2026 Mortgage Market Outlook: Trends, Predictions, and Expert Insights

Originally Published 12 days ago — by Yahoo Finance

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Source: Yahoo Finance

To secure the lowest mortgage rates in 2026, improve your credit score, reduce your debt-to-income ratio, make a larger down payment, consider buying discount points or a buydown, and shop around with different lenders. Additionally, explore options like ARMs or shorter-term fixed loans, and stay vigilant for refinancing opportunities when rates dip.

Top Financial Tips and Goals for 2026

Originally Published 15 days ago — by CNBC

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Source: CNBC

The article reviews top personal finance tools to help achieve six financial goals by 2026, including building an emergency fund, managing spending, paying off high-interest debt, raising credit scores, contributing to retirement, and saving for big goals, highlighting apps, strategies, and investment options for each.

Reporting Rent to Boost Credit: Benefits and Risks

Originally Published 15 days ago — by Yahoo Finance

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Source: Yahoo Finance

Reporting rent payments to credit bureaus can help renters build credit and improve their financial prospects, but mistakes like late payments can harm their credit and housing opportunities. The trend is increasing, especially with new federal guidelines, but renters should be cautious to ensure accurate reporting and maximize benefits.

Why Shopping Around for Mortgages Can Save Homebuyers Thousands

Originally Published 21 days ago — by CNBC

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Source: CNBC

Most homebuyers only apply for one mortgage, missing out on potential savings, as interest rates and closing costs vary among lenders. Shopping around can significantly reduce the total interest paid over the life of a loan, especially with current higher rates, and can be done without negatively impacting credit scores if done within a short time frame.

Credit Card Debt Doesn't Define Financial Skill

Originally Published 3 months ago — by NPR

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Source: NPR

Being in credit card debt is often misunderstood; it doesn't necessarily mean poor money management. Common myths include the idea that debt is a sign of financial failure, that all debt should be avoided, and that getting out of debt is impossible. In reality, debt can be a useful tool, especially when used strategically and with proper planning, such as building an emergency fund and creating a repayment plan. Understanding how debt works and managing it wisely can lead to financial stability and even debt elimination.

"Chase Ink Business Credit Cards: Reviews, Eligibility, and Top Offers"

Originally Published 1 year ago — by One Mile at a Time

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Source: One Mile at a Time

The Chase Ink Business Preferred Card offers a lucrative 120K points sign-up bonus and numerous perks for a $95 annual fee. Eligibility for the bonus is broad, even for those who currently have or previously had the card. Applicants need a business, but even sole proprietorships qualify. A good to excellent credit score is recommended, and while the Chase 5/24 rule may apply, it is not consistently enforced. Approval can take from a few days to weeks, and the minimum credit line is $5,000.

"Achieve This Credit Score to Be Financially 'Good,' Experts Say"

Originally Published 1 year ago — by Yahoo Finance

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Source: Yahoo Finance

Experts say a credit score of 700 or higher is generally considered good, with scores in the mid-700s being ideal for securing favorable rates on loans and credit. To improve your score, focus on timely payments, keeping credit utilization low, and maintaining old accounts.

"Avoid These 6 Credit Score-Killing Mistakes"

Originally Published 1 year ago — by Fox Business

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Source: Fox Business

Protecting your credit score is crucial as it affects loan approvals, interest rates, and even apartment rentals. Avoid damaging your credit by refraining from co-signing loans, applying for too much credit in a short time, missing payment due dates, neglecting non-credit payments, failing to monitor your credit, and spending to get rewards when in debt. Instead, prioritize paying off debt and monitoring your credit to safeguard your financial well-being.

"Decade-Long Streak Broken: Average Credit Scores Drop for the First Time"

Originally Published 1 year ago — by CNBC

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Source: CNBC

The average FICO credit score in the U.S. has dropped to 717, the first decline since 2013, attributed to high interest rates and inflation leading to more missed payments and increased debt levels. Despite this, a 717 score is still considered good, but over 18% of Americans were at least 30 days behind on credit card payments in October 2023. To improve credit scores, individuals can focus on paying bills on time, increasing credit limits, and using services like Experian Boost™ to link on-time utility and phone payments to their credit report.

"Score: The Dating App Exclusively for Singles with Good Credit"

Originally Published 1 year ago — by Fox Business

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Source: Fox Business

A new dating app called Score is targeting users with good credit, requiring a minimum score of 675 to join. The app aims to bring financial discussions into the dating scene, with the company emphasizing that users won't see each other's credit scores. This move comes as 25% of couples cite money as their biggest relationship challenge, and other dating apps like Tinder are also experimenting with financial barriers, such as an exclusive membership with a monthly fee of $499.

"What's the Minimum Credit Score for a Wells Fargo Active Cash Card?"

Originally Published 1 year ago — by CNBC

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Source: CNBC

The Wells Fargo Active Cash Card requires a good to excellent credit score, typically at least 670, for approval. Factors such as previous Wells Fargo credit card history and credit card limits are also considered. To improve chances of approval, maintaining a low credit utilization ratio and making timely payments is crucial. Additionally, the $200 cash rewards bonus requires spending $500 within the first three months. Wells Fargo may reject applications for reasons such as inadequate credit score or having too many existing accounts.

"Strategies to Tackle Record High Credit Card Debt in the US"

Originally Published 2 years ago — by Daily Mail

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Source: Daily Mail

Kevin O'Leary warns about the impact of rising interest rates on credit card debt and offers five tips for financial health: 1. Track your income and expenses to avoid overspending. 2. Avoid tying up money in non-appreciating assets. 3. Invest in stocks and Treasury bills instead of savings accounts. 4. Consider relocating to low-tax states for financial benefits. 5. Develop a good credit score by making small monthly credit card payments.

Boost Your Chances of Auto Loan Approval and Reduce Costs

Originally Published 2 years ago — by CNBC

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Source: CNBC

Rejection rates for auto loan applications have reached a record high in 2023, with prices for new and used cars remaining elevated and higher interest rates leading to increased car payments. However, there are ways to improve your odds of getting approved for a car loan. Choosing the right auto loan and lender, such as Capital One Auto Finance or MyAutoloan, can increase your chances, especially if you have bad credit. Working on improving your credit score by paying bills on time, automating payments, and using services like Experian Boost™ can also help. Additionally, checking for and correcting any errors on your credit report can raise your credit score and improve your chances of loan approval.