Understanding credit: Master the basics of managing your credit

Why is credit important?

Credit is important because it helps you get what you need, when you need it—making it a reliable, useful and convenient financial resource.

But it’s critical that you understand how to manage credit. Whether you’re financing a new car, paying for college, buying a home or funding your dream vacation, there are specific steps you can take so you don’t join the growing number of consumers who borrow on credit without a plan to responsibly pay it off.

So how can you avoid falling into credit card debt? The key is to understand what credit is, how to manage it, and how to establish and maintain good credit.

Nail the basics of responsible credit management

• Keep your total balance owed as low as possible. And pay your bill on time, every time. Whether it’s one credit card or five, keeping a low balance with a history of on-time payments will boost your overall credit score. Owing money on a credit card doesn’t automatically make you a high-risk borrower, but using a high percentage of your available credit could signal that you’re overextended and more likely to miss payments.
• Pay off the most expensive debt first. It’s a good idea to work on tackling credit cards or loans with the highest interest. Pay more than the minimum payment to start chipping away at the total balance—otherwise you’re just covering the interest rates and treading water.
• Find out your credit score and monitor it closely. Your credit report reflects your financial health. And your credit score is a direct reflection of your risk as a borrower. If your credit score is good (700 or higher), it shows a proven track record of responsible debt management. And that means lower interest rate loans. Take stock of where you stand now and aim to boost that score with on-time payments.

Reap the benefits of maintaining a good credit profile

When you have a strong credit report, you’ll have access to more borrowing options at lower interest rates. Plus, potential employers, landlords and insurance companies often reference your credit history when determining your candidacy for jobs, rental agreements and premiums. A high credit score and a solid track record of on-time payments will position you for better opportunities down the road.

So now you know why it's important to monitor your credit report and make your payments on time. Credit can be your friend – when you treat it with respect and give it the attention it deserves.

^{This page and the information contained herein is for educational purposes only. The information is not intended to provide legal, investment, or financial advice or to indicate the availability or suitability of any product, service or strategy to your unique circumstances. For specific advice about your unique circumstances, you may wish to consult a qualified professional. Any links to other websites are included for your convenience only. Bread Financial does not endorse any product or service, and is not responsible for the accuracy or reliability of the information, made available through such sites.}