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How Many Credit Cards Are Too Many?
Credit cards can increase your purchasing power, but how many credit cards are too many? There are both pros and cons of having multiple cards.
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Credit Card Perks Sometimes Overlooked
There are several advantages credit cards offer over cash, including special perks that cash can’t match. But these credit card perks are sometimes overlooked—oftentimes because card members aren’t even aware that their credit cards offer them. Taking advantage of credit card perks and benefits could save you time, money, and maybe even a few hassles. The perks credit cards offer may vary by card and card issuer, but there’s typically no additional charge to take advantage of these benefits—they’re either free or included as part of your credit card’s annual fee.
6 Ways to Put a Tax Refund to Work for You
Approximately three-quarters of Americans get a tax refund each year, with the average refund totaling $3,000. If you’re one of these lucky folks, consider developing a plan for the money you’ll get back instead of just depositing it into your checking account and leaving it there—or using it to buy stuff you don’t really need.
How Often Are Credit Scores Updated?
One of the most common questions asked about credit scores is: How often do credit agencies update scores? Think of your credit score as being similar to a grade point average (GPA), only instead of telling you how you’re doing in your school classes, it indicates how well you’re managing your credit. Like a GPA, your credit score is a representation of your efforts at a specific point in time. In the case of your GPA, that point in time is when your report card is issued. With a school report card, that GPA doesn’t update again until the end of the next quarter or trimester or semester, when your teachers turn in grades and you get your next report card.
FICO® Score vs Credit Score
Your credit score can affect the type of car you drive, the credit cards you qualify for, where you live (both if you buy or rent a home), the job you get—even the premiums you pay for car insurance in some states. But just what is this mysterious three-digit number known as your credit score? And do you have only one?
This material is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of a qualified tax advisor, attorney or financial advisor. Readers should consult with their own tax advisor, attorney or financial advisor with regard to their personal situations.