Is your credit ready for family life?

Learn how marriage and kids can affect your credit.

Credit affects so many aspects of our lives—from getting married and having kids to buying a home and paying for college, the strength of your Credit Score and Report helps shape your life. That’s why taking good care of your credit is so important.

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Marriage, Family & Your Credit

Raising a family is perhaps the most difficult – and rewarding – job there is. It’s also one of the best arguments for establishing and maintaining good credit. Life events – weddings, births, college and even the unfortunate reality of divorce – often require the assistance of credit, and a strong Credit Score makes a big difference.

Yes! Credit Matters: Identity Theft—Is Your Family at Risk?
Almost 9 million Americans have their identities stolen each year. Many people don’t even realize their identity has been stolen until they receive bad news in the form of a delinquency letter, negative mark on their Credit Report, lawsuit or, in extreme cases, an arrest warrant. Even worse, when criminals target your children, the crime can go undetected for years making clean-up nearly impossible. But there is something you can do to help keep your family safe. Learn more now!
Yes! Credit Matters: When Saying "I Do" Is A Don't
For most of us, marriage is the natural evolution of a great relationship. What's not to love? Bad credit for one thing. It's not that married couples share a Credit Score or Report, but if one of you has bad credit, you could be denied when you apply for loans and credit together. So, before you say "I Do," make sure you understand, and can accept, the way your future mate handles credit and finances. Plus, don't forget to discuss your debts so you both know what you're getting into.

Score Planner

See how different events might impact your Credit Score. The Score Planner is available to both members and non-members.

Types of questions you'll see:

What if I pay off that card?
What if I apply for a loan?
What if I have a late payment?

Go see the Score Planner

Question: What do I tell my kids about credit?

Answer: It's never too early to teach your kids about credit, and how it affects their finances. Giving your kids a weekly allowance shows them how money is earned in exchange for work. Their allowance can then be divided into spending money and savings to teach them fiscal responsibility. You could even give them loans for special purchases to teach them about interest rates and paying their bills on time.

Taking good care of your credit can help you get the things you want. Get started now!

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Making Good Credit Decisions

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