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What Is Credit
Get Credit Counseling
The National Foundation of Credit Counseling is committed to helping you navigate your financial journey.
Online Courses
Discover online courses to help understand financial principles to empower your finances.
Credit Reports
Your credit report is important to understanding your financial status. Learn more about your credit report, how to get an annual credit report, what to expect, and more.
What is Credit?
Credit is your financial reputation—it represents your ability to borrow money and repay it over time. Lenders, landlords, and even employers may review your credit history to assess your reliability. Having good credit can open doors to better loan rates, housing opportunities, and financial freedom.
Your credit is determined by several key factors, including:
- Payment History – Making on-time payments helps build a strong credit score, while missed or late payments can negatively impact it.
- Credit Utilization – Using a low percentage of your available credit shows responsible credit management.
- Length of Credit History – A longer credit history can positively impact your score, showing lenders a track record of responsible borrowing.
- Types of Credit – A mix of credit types, such as credit cards, auto loans, and mortgages, can demonstrate your ability to manage different forms of debt.
- New Credit Inquiries – Applying for multiple credit accounts in a short period may lower your score temporarily, so it's best to apply strategically.
Building and maintaining good credit takes time, but responsible habits can help you achieve financial success.
My Credit Manager
Manage Your Credit Through Online and Mobile Banking
Understanding and monitoring your credit score is key to maintaining financial health.
With My Credit Manager, available in our online and mobile banking, you can easily track your credit score, review insights, what impacts your score, set up credit alerts and more—all without impacting your score. Stay in control of your financial future with real-time updates and personalized recommendations.
Credit Glossary