Everyone should regularly check their credit report. The difference between a soft inquiry and a hard inquiry can significantly impact your score. Here's what you should know about the difference between both.

One of the simplest ways to secure financing is through a line of credit.  The application process for lines of credit tends to be quicker and less involved than for other types of financing such as business loans, personal loans or mortgages.

Authorized users, like cosigners, should be carefully considered before adding them to a credit card account. If not, it can be a costly mistake and will likely ruin your credit score.

Financial decisions like purchasing a cell phone or applying to rent an apartment or house will require you to have your credit score in good standing. A low credit score can also allow lenders to charge you a higher upfront cost or pay more money because you aren’t considered creditworthy.

Your credit score is used by lenders to determine your credit risk when it comes to borrowing money. The higher your credit score, generally speaking, the more you'll be able to borrow, and the lower your interest rate. That can save you thousands of dollars over the life of your loan. So, if you're looking to purchase a home, read on to learn how to optimize your credit score.

A secured credit card requires the cardholder to make a security deposit, whereas an unsecured credit card doesn't. Both can be a great tool for building a positive credit history and improving your credit score; each has its advantages and disadvantages.

With some careful planning and prudent spending habits, there is a home for almost every budget and financial circumstance.

Choosing the right mortgage depends on a host of important factors. Some of those factors include your FICO score, your available down payment, and how long you plan on living in your new home.

Purchasing a home is a big financial step. One of the most common words you will hear throughout your house buying process is pre-qualification and pre-approval. It's essential to know what these two terms mean when buying a home.

Debt can crush not only your score, but also your spirit as you are on your personal finance journey. Understanding how to better handle that debt that is in collections will give you confidence to needed to battle debt as as whole.

Cash is king but so is credit. Having good credit will take you a long way in life. It is important to get and keep a good credit score. Save the cash, leverage your credit.