Credit plays a huge role in the world of start up businesses, but depending on when you were born, you may have viewed credit as only being used for big purchases such as home loans, or to finance a car. This certainly holds true for many consumers; however, credit is also being used in other ways such as jump starting a small business, traveling, and for daily essentials. In our most recent installment in partnership with FICO, Real Credit Conversations: Young Adults on FICO® Scores, we are exploring how a few young adults first learned about the importance of credit reports, their FIC ..read more

How were you first introduced to the world of credit? Depending on when you were born, you may have viewed credit as only being used for big ticket purchases such as home loans, or to finance a car. This certainly holds true for many consumers; however, credit is also being used in other ways such as starting a business, traveling, and for daily essentials. In our most recent installment in partnership with FICO, Real Credit Conversations: Young Adults on FICO® Scores, we are exploring how a few young adults first learned about the importance of credit reports, their FICO® Scores, and h ..read more

  Depending on when you were born, you may have viewed credit as only being used for big ticket purchases such as home loans, college tuition, or maybe to finance a car. While this is the case for many consumers, credit is also being used in other ways such as traveling, or to assist in financing a small business. In our most recent installment in partnership with FICO, Real Credit Conversations: Young Adults on FICO® Scores, we will explore how a few young adults first learned about the importance of credit reports, their FICO® Scores, and how they are actively using credit to fund the ..read more

Freedom looks different to all of us and can be defined based on what you value most. When we consider our finances, what life plans must be made and executed to make sure we reach our personal level of success holistically? Here’s more insight into a few ways to create true luxury in your life. Define what financial freedom means to you We all have varying obligations and responsibilities that most times don’t come with a cheap price tag. Family, children, aging parents, and unexpected costs can occur at the drop of a dime – throwing many of us off track financially. This results in our finan ..read more

When you think about your friend group, what comes to mind? Some of them you’ve known for years and others you’ve connected with throughout different seasons in life. No matter how the connection began, it’s important to share similar core values. If maintaining and increasing your finances are at the top of mind – what are some ways you all can keep in contact while being financially aware? Let’s dive in. Create themed dinner dates There’s a common misconception that opting to stay in means you’re not in a good place financially – when that’s not always the case. Creating a new mindset arou ..read more

Did you know that 30% of your FICO Score is based on amounts owed? Amounts Owed refers to how much debt you carry in total and is an important factor of your FICO Score. FICO research has found that your level of debt is predictive of future credit performance because the amount owed typically impacts your ability to pay all monthly credit obligations on time. Learn more here: Understanding your FICO Score doesn’t have to be a mystery. To learn more, visit: scoreabetterfuture.com. I am an official brand ambassador for FICO. While I receive compensation for my participation as a brand ambassado ..read more

Our calendars can be jam packed with birthday celebrations, weddings, brunch and just because happy hours. Text messages, phone calls and e-vites swarm our thoughts – and finances typically don’t drive our answers. How do we maintain our sanity and pockets? Set personal goals keeping your finances in mind One of the main questions you should ask yourself is, “how many events am I willing to attend that keep me on track with my budget?” This question allows you to reasonably account for events that not only fit in your schedule, but won’t have your accounts lower than your budget allows. Eith ..read more

Did you know that 35% of your FICO Score is based on your payment history? A healthy credit score can help ensure access to lower interest rates, better loan options, and much more. Research shows that your track record of payments tends to be the strongest predictor of the likelihood that you’ll pay all debts as agreed to. As you can imagine, a lender’s number one priority is your past record of paying or not paying back your credit obligations. Making on-time payments consistently over time shows lenders and creditors that you are a low-risk borrower. When you don’t make payments on time ..read more

Financial hardships can and will occur to all of us regardless of socioeconomic status. Joblessness, homelessness, debt, and other occurrences can weigh on anyone, whether they’re considered to be financially secure or not. The importance here is to remember – you are not alone. Identify how money makes you feel Often when money is in a surplus, our sentiments surrounding our finances are positive. When there’s more responsibilities piling up than money, this is where our emotions shift. Ask yourself these questions periodically: How do I feel about where I am in my financial journey? What re ..read more

Life gets hectic and we all need someone or something to keep us honest about making sure our finances don’t take a backseat to other life demands. Let these examples serve as your reminder to secure your financial footing. Evaluate your current investments Take a look at your 401k contributions and adjust as necessary. In the instance your salary has increased, your investments should as well. There are free retirement calculators that can provide a guide and estimate your retirement funds. This can loosely give you an idea if you’re on track or need to make some adjustments to meet your inve ..read more