Learning Center
Basic Finance
How Credit Affects You
Preparing for Home Ownership
Steps for Buying a Home
Life as a Homeowner






 
Module 2
How Credit Affects You
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Additional Resources

Basics of Credit
This section explains the types of credit and how you can establish credit. Tips for how to select, compare and manage credit cards are also included.

Credit Reports and Credit Score
This section describes credit reports and credit scores, and explains how they are created. Information for the three main credit-reporting agencies is provided, along with a sample credit report with labeled components.

Improving Your Credit
This section provides some simple steps you can take to improve and manage your credit. Examples of letters you can use to dispute incorrect information and add positive information or a consumer statement are also included.

Credit and Loans
This section explains how and why your credit score directly affects your ability to get credit and loans. Factors that impact your credit score are provided, along with a list of what lenders typically look for when determining whether to grant a loan or credit.

Bankruptcy
This section describes bankruptcy and the far-reaching negative effects it has on many aspects of your life. A checklist of things to do before deciding to file for bankruptcy is provided, along with advice for how to re-establish credit after declaring bankruptcy.

Identity Theft and Fraud
This section describes the growing problem of identity theft and fraud. A list of top identity theft scams and tips for how to prevent them are provided. Information on what to do if your identity has been stolen is also included.

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