Its an age-old question we receive, and to answer it requires that we start with the basics: What is the definition of a credit score, anyway?. Generally speaking, a credit score is a three-digit number ranging from 300 to 850. Credit scores are calculated using information in your credit report. Your credit scores are based … Read more
We’ll cover why credit scores matter in the mortgage process and how to maximize your score. A credit score isn’t the only deciding factor on your mortgage application, but it’s a significant one. It’s important to know your credit score and how to use it to get the best mortgage rate when you’re looking for … Read more
Paying your card balance in full keeps interest and debt at bay, but choosing to pay over time can afford financial flexibility when paying off major purchases. Spending isn’t static. Our lives – and the economy – are constantly changing. Frustratingly, a necessary purchase may come along when money’s tight. And it’s sometimes better to … Read more
When you have a judgment against you, your credit takes a big hit. It could eventually cause your bank accounts to be frozen, your wages to be garnished, and your property to be taken away. This sounds like a scary process, and it really can be. The most important thing you can do is understand … Read more
You have the right to dispute errors on your credit report. Fixing an error generally means contacting both the credit reporting company and the company that provided the information. If you suspect that the error on your report is a result of identity theft, visit IdentityTheft. gov , the federal government’s one-stop resource to help … Read more
You may be able to save time and money with the debt avalanche method. This means paying off your debt with the highest interest rate first. Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising partners who compensate us when you take certain actions on our website or click to … Read more
Let your interest rates guide you when deciding in which order to pay down debt. That usually means sending any extra money toward credit card debt first, then personal loans, student loans, car loans and, lastly, your mortgage. In general, its best to pay off credit card debt first, then loan debt, since credit cards … Read more
Hey there, dreamin’ of owning your own pad but thinkin’ Centrelink payments might slam the door shut? Well, lemme tell ya straight up—yes, you can buy a house on Centrelink, but it ain’t a walk in the park. It’s doable with the right know-how, a bit of grit, and some smart moves. We’re gonna break … 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
Your credit score is one of the most important numbers in your financial life. It impacts your ability to get approved for loans and credit cards as well as the interest rates and terms you’ll receive. So where does an 862 credit score fall? Is 862 a good credit score? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll … Read more