If you close a credit card, your credit utilization will go up, which is a key factor in figuring out your credit score. This can lower your credit score. Heres what to know. Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising partners who compensate us when you take certain … Read more
“Expert verified” means that our Financial Review Board thoroughly evaluated the article for accuracy and clarity. The Review Board is made up of financial experts whose job it is to make sure that all of our content is fair and unbiased. Bankrate is always editorially independent. While we adhere to strict , this post may … Read more
The look of your credit score can be deceiving. You may need to change which credit reporting agency you use if you’re worried that your credit score is too low. Two of the major credit bureaus are TransUnion® and Equifax®. While both collect and store your credit information, they do so in slightly different ways. … Read more
When you want to borrow money for something like a house, car, or credit line, you should know your credit score. After all, it’s your credit score that lenders use to determine who to loan their money to – and what rates to offer them. Generally speaking, the higher your credit score, the more likely … Read more
Millions of Americans rely on savings accounts and checking accounts from banks and credit unions to help manage their money. Although it’s possible to function in society today with no bank account, it’s not recommended. Because you can’t keep cash or funds safe without a bank account, and it’s harder to use, move, and manage … Read more
Your credit utilization rate is the percentage of available credit that youâre using on your credit cards and other lines of credit. Itâs based on the balances that appear in your credit report. In general, a lower utilization rate is best. Your credit utilization ratio, sometimes called your credit utilization rate, is the amount of … Read more
It can be tempting to pay off your mortgage early, especially if you have the funds readily available. You can retire debt-free, save on interest and even divert those savings to higher-earning investments. There are some bad things about paying off your mortgage early, though, and it’s not always the best idea. If youre looking … Read more
Creating the optimum banking experience covers a lot of ground today – from streamlined service and improved security like cash recyclers and ATMs, to a clean, organized bank – including the customer-employee relationship. The way your staff treats customers is a big part of whether they come back or go to a competitor. Creating the … Read more
“Expert verified” means that our Financial Review Board thoroughly evaluated the article for accuracy and clarity. The Review Board comprises a panel of financial experts whose objective is to ensure that our content is always objective and balanced. Bankrate is always editorially independent. While we adhere to strict , this post may contain references to … Read more
I was laid off from the small newspaper in New Hampshire in 2013. Like any other sensible unemployed person, I decided to move to a city I couldn’t afford and didn’t have any savings for! We’ve all heard that famous New York City motto — you know, “The city so nice they named it twice” … Read more