Understand Your Credit Score
What it is, how it's calculated, and how to protect it. This number follows you.
Your credit score affects rent applications, loan rates, and sometimes jobs. Most people hurt it by accident.
Scenarios
Your First Credit Card
You got approved for your first credit card: $1,500 limit, 24% APR. You want to build credit but you're scared of debt. Your friend says to use it for everything and pay it off. Another friend says never use it at all.
Credit Score Deep Dive
You checked your credit score for the first time: 612. You're applying for an apartment in 3 months and the landlord requires a 650+ score. You have 90 days to raise it 38 points.
The Car Loan You Almost Got Destroyed By
You need a car to get to your new job. A dealership offers you a loan: $8,500 car, 18% APR, 60-month term. Monthly payment is $215. You're excited — it feels affordable. Your friend says wait.