A series of low-paying jobs left Ann Marshall struggling with credit card debt a few years ago. “I remember not being approved to finance a $900 phone from Best Buy,” says the longtime writer. “In an ideal world, you apply for credit and get approved. I wasn’t.”
It took changing careers to one that paid better and seven months of working 60- and 70-hour weeks to pay off her debt. Now, Ann boasts an excellent credit score above 800.
Ann isn’t the only person who has faced a dip in her credit score, which is an indication of how trustworthy you are to receive a loan. Almost 20% of Americans have a credit score below 580, which is considered “poor.” A “fair” score ranges from 580 to 669 and a “good” score ranges from 670 to 739.
A healthy credit score is key to everything from renting an apartment to securing a car loan. So how do you make sure your credit score stays in the best possible shape? Elizabeth Pennington, CFP, a certified financial planner at investment advisor firm Fearless Finance, says taking the steps at right can bump up your score.
KEEP AN ACTIVE CREDIT ACCOUNT
This story is from the July 08, 2024 edition of First for Women.
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This story is from the July 08, 2024 edition of First for Women.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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