You could owe capital gains tax if you sell a home that has appreciated in value because it is a capital asset. However, thanks to the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997, most homeowners are exempt from needing to pay it. If youre single, you will pay no capital gains tax on the first $250,000 of … Read more
When applying for a mortgage or insurance, you may be surprised by how much information and documentation underwriters request from you As an average person just trying to get approved, it can feel intrusive and excessive. However, there are good reasons underwriters need access to so much of your personal and financial information. An Overview … Read more
Rent and certain other tradelines can appear on your credit reports if your landlord or the service provider reports your payments to credit bureaus. This reporting is not mandatory, but some financial apps can help you report rental payments and other bills to credit bureaus, which can help you build credit if you make timely … Read more
Hey there, credit champs! If you’re sittin’ pretty with an 800 credit score, big props—you’re already in the elite club. But I know some of y’all are eyeing that perfect 850, the holy grail of FICO scores. Why settle for awesome when you can be legendary, right? I’ve been down this road, obsessing over every … Read more
A 500 credit score falls into the bad range. Youll have trouble getting credit, but your score can recover. Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising partners who compensate us when you take certain actions on our website or click to take an action on their website. However, … Read more
If your credit score is 734, you are right in the middle. According to Experian, the average American consumer has a FICO Score of 714 as of 2021, and anything in the range of 670 to 739 is generally considered to be a good credit score. Most lenders consider an 734 credit score to be … Read more
Review your credit score and scoring factors to find out which accounts you should pay off first. As a general rule, prioritize past-due accounts and high-interest credit card debt over installment loans if you want to improve your credit. If youre focused on improving your credit scores, paying down or off certain debts can be … Read more
This article contains general information and is not intended to provide information that is specific to American Express products and services. Similar products and services offered by different companies will have different features and you should always read about product details before acquiring any financial product. Understand how closed accounts on credit reports may impact … Read more
You can keep your Social Security number safe by leaving your Social Security card at home, not broadly sharing your SSN and shredding documents that show your Social Security number. Your nine-digit Social Security number (SSN) can be key to securing a job, applying for credit and opening a bank account. Unfortunately, its also a … Read more
Having two credit cards from different lenders is a solid place to start, but theres no magic end point. Focus on spending habits and paying on time. Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising partners who compensate us when you take certain actions on our website or click … Read more