Did you know that March is National Credit Education Month? It’s the perfect time to brush up on your financial knowledge and empower yourself to take control of your credit score.
With credit playing such a significant role in our financial lives, it’s good to understand how credit scores are calculated and how your day-to-day choices can cause it to go up or down.
Although it’s not new information, I hope the following serves as a helpful refresher this spring:
- Understanding Your Credit Score – Your credit score is a three-digit number that represents your credit history and likelihood of repaying borrowed money. It’s calculated using your payment history (35%), the amount you owe (30%), the length of your credit history (15%), the types of credit used (10%), and new credit (10%).
- Monitoring Your Credit – Regularly checking your credit report can help you identify errors and alert you to potential identity theft. The Consumer Protection Bureau recommends consumers do so once a year at the very least. According to CPB, annualcreditreport.com is the only provider authorized under federal law to offer free credit reports for the three major bureaus: TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian. Consumers can get a free credit report once a year through the site. Alternatively, Equifax offers free credit scores six times a year through the end of 2026.
- Tips for Maintaining a Good Credit Score – Some basic rules include paying bills on time, keeping balances low on credit cards (below 30% at least and below 10% ideally) and other revolving credit, and only applying for credit when necessary.
- Explore educational resources: There are numerous resources available online and through organizations like the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (https://www.nfcc.org/) that offer free credit education materials and guidance.
By investing some time in learning about credit, you can unlock a brighter financial future. So, take advantage of this opportunity, empower yourself with knowledge, and watch your credit score flourish!
Thank you for reading!
The Trademark Capital® Team
This material is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, accounting, tax, investment, or other professional advice. Trademark Capital’s investment strategies are built using quantitative, proprietary algorithms that are designed to identify and react to changing market conditions. However, investors should be aware that no investment strategy or risk management technique can guarantee returns or eliminate risk in any given market environment. As with all investments, Trademark Capital Management’s investment strategies are subject to risk and may lose money. The investment strategies presented are not appropriate for every investor and individual clients should review with their financial advisors the terms and conditions and risk involved with specific products or services. Due to our active risk management, our managed portfolios may underperform during bull markets. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
