Bella Mertz Utility companies typically don’t report your payment history to the credit bureaus. But paying utility bills on time can help your credit score when you use Experian Boost. This tool specifically integrates gas, electric, water and other utility payments into your Experian credit report and scores. When you use a service like Experian Boost® that … Read more
Experian, TransUnion and Equifax now offer all U.S. consumers free weekly credit reports through AnnualCreditReport.com. Lenders can choose which credit score they want to use when evaluating your auto loan application. Different lenders might use different scores, and even the same lender might test several credit scores. Therefore, when you apply for an auto loan, … Read more
Congratulations you’ve made it through the mortgage underwriting process! But now you’re probably wondering “How long does it take after underwriting to close on my house?” The good news is, the finish line is in sight Typically, it takes 3-4 weeks to close on your mortgage after you’re cleared to close (CTC) However, this timeline … Read more
The short answer is yes, you can refinance while unemployed. But it’s not as simple as it is for people who have a reliable source of income. Here’s what you need to know: Challenges of Refinancing While Unemployed: Lenders are hesitant: Lenders are typically risk-averse, and they may be hesitant to approve a refinance for … Read more
Personal loans can be used for a wide range of purposes, such as paying off medical bills, financing home improvements, and credit card consolidation. Although those with a credit score of 640 and above are typically eligible for the best loan terms, a personal loan typically requires a minimum credit score of 580. This article … Read more
While there’s a lot to like about FHA loans, they may not be right for everyone. Before you make a major financial commitment, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of FHA loans. Only then can you truly decide whether it’s right for you. Buying a home is a major milestone and choosing the … Read more
To understand available credit, it might help to think about it like youâre borrowing cash from a friend. Say your friend loans you $10 and you spend $4. The original $10 you borrowed is like your credit limit. The $4 you spent is your current balance. And the $6 you have left is your available … Read more
Getting hitched is a momentous occasion, filled with excitement and anticipation. However, it’s important to deal with the practical aspects of combining your lives, such as your finances, in between the excitement of planning your wedding and honeymoon. One key aspect to consider is how marriage affects your credit score. While many misconceptions surround this … Read more
REQUIRED FIELDS* Total outstanding balance on consumer debt (credit cards, auto loans, personal loans, student loans, excluding mortgage) Monthly after-tax income ($) Monthly mortgage payments In the realm of personal finance the question of “how much debt is too much?” looms large often leaving individuals grappling with uncertainty and anxiety. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, … Read more
Whether you’re buying a house, applying for a car loan in your name, or simply opening a credit card account, your credit score matters. Your credit score is heavily influenced by the way you handle loan, credit card, and other credit payment obligations. A charge-off, or a creditor’s declaration that a debt is unlikely to … Read more