How business credit affects personal credit scores depends on whether or not there is a personal guarantee involved. Most credit card issuers require a personal guarantee, and making timely payments may boost your personal credit score. Business credit can also cause your personal score to decrease if you default on payments. Whether your business is…
All Credit Scores and Reports Articles - Page 2
How to Build Business Credit in 30 Days or Less
There are several steps for how to build business credit in 30 days, which include creating a business profile, reviewing credit reports, and beginning to build good payment habits. Building good business credit means you’re more likely to get approved for a business loan and qualify for lower rates. Opening a business credit card is…
Credit Utilization Ratio & How It Affects Your Credit Score
Your level of credit utilization is measured by comparing your credit card balances to your total credit card limits. This calculation is known as the credit utilization ratio, and lenders use it to evaluate how well you manage your finances. A credit utilization of less than 30% and greater than 0% is generally considered good….
UltraFICO Credit Score: What It Is & What You Need to Know
The UltraFICO score evaluates personal bank account information in addition to the data on an individual’s credit history. This opt-in credit model helps individuals with low personal credit scores of 680 or lower boost their existing FICO score by 20 or more points. It evaluates your savings’ amount, age of your bank accounts, and your…
How Hard Inquiries Impact Your Credit Score & Report
A hard inquiry, also known as a hard credit check, gives people your full credit report and typically occur when you apply for a loan or credit card. Hard inquiries stay on your credit report for up to two years, are visible creditors, and can decrease your personal credit score by one to five points….
The 5 C’s of Credit: What Banks & Lenders Actually Look For
The 5 C’s of credit are character, capacity, capital, conditions, and collateral. Together, these serve as a way for lenders to evaluate the creditworthiness of potential borrowers. Banks and lenders generally look at your ability to repay, level of debt, how you plan to use the funds, and the collateral you have to offer. The…
Hard vs. Soft Credit Checks & Their Affect on Credit Scores
A hard credit check negatively impacts your credit score compared to a soft credit check, which has no impact. Hard credit checks typically occur when you apply for a loan or credit card. A soft credit check occurs when your credit report is pulled for a background check, like when you check your credit score….