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Popular
5
 min read

How Does Extra Work?

Extra is the first debit card that builds credit. We rounded up everything you need to know about how Extra works from debit card rewards to no interest fees!

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Credit Wizard
April 23, 2021
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Extra 101
Finance 101
Credit 101
3
 min read

What Are Liquid Assets?

The financial world is challenging, and in times of trouble, it’s vital to have a backup. Liquid assets can immediately be converted to cash while still keeping their market value. The more liquid a company or individual is, the better. Follow along for a deep dive.

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Credit Wizard
December 9, 2022
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Finance 101
4
 min read

What Affects A Credit Score

Whether you’ve recently checked your credit score, or finally Googled what a credit score is, you may have questions about what makes up a credit score.

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Credit Wizard
December 7, 2022
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Credit 101
4
 min read

Debit Card Rewards Programs Exist — Here's What You Need to Know

**Breaking news** debit card rewards programs exist! Businesses value you as a customer, and they want to reward you for repetitively giving them business, so they create rewards programs. Find the best rewards programs to make your spending pay off.

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Credit Wizard
December 6, 2022
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Extra 101
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4
 min read

How To Stop Asking Your Parents For Money

One of the first times you feel that you’re actually “adulting” is when you can finally stop asking your parents for money. Keep reading for everything you need to know to become financially independent. 

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Credit Wizard
December 5, 2022
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Finance 101
What is a High-Yield Checkings Account
4
 min read

What is a High-Yield Checking Account

A high-yield rewards checking account is an account that builds interest and encourages regular use. Banks offer these cards as attractive options for those looking to make money, but these cards offer higher earnings at a low cost.

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Credit Wizard
December 2, 2022
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Finance 101
5
 min read

The Pros and Cons of Debit and Credit Cards

Debit cards are a replacement for carrying cash on hand. On the other hand, when you swipe a credit card you might be paying with money you don’t have. From your credit score to debt, both cards offer many pros and cons. Determine how to get the best of both worlds.

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Credit Wizard
December 1, 2022
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4
 min read

Gossip About Your Credit Score That Just Isn't True

Most of us didn’t get a class to cover credit or credit scores in school, leading to a lot of misinformation out there. That's why we busted 10 of the most common credit score myths!

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Credit Wizard
November 30, 2022
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Credit 101
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4
 min read

What Your Credit Card Balance Actually Means

Credit cards can be great ways to pay for everyday purchases and a useful tool in your financial toolkit because they help you build credit. But, they can also be dangerous if you carry a balance you can’t pay off.

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Credit Wizard
November 29, 2022
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Credit 101
How to Recognize and Avoid Phishing Scams
4
 min read

How to Recognize and Avoid Phishing Scams

Keep your sensitive info safe and secure. As phishing attacks continue to rise across the consumer finance industry, it’s now more important than ever to stay alert against scammers. Protect your accounts from fraud with these red flags to look out for in your inbox and phone.

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Credit Wizard
November 28, 2022
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Finance 101
3
 min read

How to Shop Safely Online During the Holidays

Keep your sensitive info safe and secure. As phishing attacks continue to rise across the consumer finance industry, it’s now more important than ever to stay alert against scammers. Protect your accounts from fraud with these red flags to look out for in your inbox and phone.

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Credit Wizard
November 23, 2022
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Extra 101
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4
 min read

How Is Credit Card Interest Actually Calculated?

Your credit card interest rate is the ultimate enemy of your financial goals! Knowing how credit card interest works can empower you to take back control. Let’s break this down. 

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Credit Wizard
November 22, 2022
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Credit 101
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2
 min read

Budgeting 101

A budget is the first step towards meeting your big financial goals. Check our ultimate guide to budgeting to learn how to save and spend wisely.

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Credit Wizard
November 21, 2022
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Finance 101
Breaking Down FICO 8
3
 min read

Breaking Down FICO 8

FICO Score 8 s a very popular credit scoring system introduced by the Fair Isaacs Corporation. It’s essential to keep your FICO Score 8 as high as possible as many businesses view the system as the optimal credit scorer.

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Credit Wizard
November 21, 2022
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Credit 101
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4
 min read

Can You Build Credit With a Debit Card?

It used to be that one of the only ways to build credit when you had literally no credit history was to get a secured credit card. Over here? None of that nonsense.

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Credit Wizard
November 18, 2022
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Credit 101
Extra 101
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4
 min read

Where to Begin When Cleaning Up Your Credit Score

Maybe you didn’t make some of the best financial decisions when you first got your credit card or auto loan, causing your credit score to take a pretty big hit. We’ve rounded up a to-do list for cleaning up that credit score!

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Credit Wizard
November 18, 2022
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Credit 101
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6
 min read

How to Start Credit Building With No History

You were putting off focusing on your finances for the longest time, and now you’re googling “how to build credit fast with no credit history.” Good news: you have many options to get your credit in motion, from becoming an authorized user to applying for a loan.

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Credit Wizard
November 18, 2022
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Credit 101
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4
 min read

​​What’s the Minimum Credit Score for a Car Loan?

Upfront, we’re going to let you in on a secret, there actually isn’t a universal minimum credit score required for a car loan. But, your credit score can affect your loan terms and ability to get approved. 

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Credit Wizard
November 16, 2022
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Finance 101
Credit 101
How To Build Credit Without a Credit Card
5
 min read

How To Build Credit Without a Credit Card

Most people don’t know you can totally build credit without a credit card, and that certain debit cards can do it for you. Whether you’re starting from scratch or trying to repair some damage you’ve already done, these methods will come in handy.

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Credit Wizard
November 15, 2022
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Credit 101
What Is Charge Off On A Credit Report
5
 min read

What Is Charge Off On A Credit Report

A charge-off indicates that not only have you missed a payment, but you’ve failed to repay it for an unacceptable amount of time. While there may not be a good chance of reversal, don’t give up. Pay your debts and keep building toward your successful financial future. 

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Credit Wizard
November 14, 2022
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Credit 101
How Many Credit Cards Should I Have?
3
 min read

How Many Credit Cards Should I Have?

From temptations to your credit card score, there are risks associated with having multiple credit cards, however, with the right financial decisions, multiple cards may lead to added benefits. Analyze your finances to determine how many credit cards are right for you.

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Credit Wizard
November 14, 2022
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Credit 101
Money Tips for College Students
3
 min read

Money Tips for College Students

Though college may be the best time of your life, it’s also expensive. No matter who you are, the costs of tuition, housing and books will always add up. Stay ahead of your finances to stay financially healthy and prepare for a fantastic financial future.

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Credit Wizard
November 11, 2022
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Finance 101
9 Ways to Improve Your Credit Score
5
 min read

9 Ways to Improve Your Credit Score

When it comes to improving your credit score, there’s no easy fix. Luckily, there’s a number of methods you can implement to boost your credit. Understanding the basics of credit and all the credit-building tools at your disposal will do you wonders.

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Credit Wizard
November 10, 2022
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Credit 101
Simple Ways To Set Up Your Financial Future
4
 min read

Simple Ways To Set Up Your Financial Future

Planning your financial path will make the future simpler. You can take plenty of actions today that will do you good down the road, such as building savings, credit, and an emergency fund. The more you prep now, the more you’ll elevate your future financial position.

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Credit Wizard
November 9, 2022
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Finance 101
How to Build Credit at 18
3
 min read

How to Build Credit at 18

Building credit for beginners is easier than you think. Studying the credit scoring system, learning how to check your credit score, signing up for an EXTRA card, and responsibly applying for a loan are all reliable ways to build credit at 18.

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Credit Wizard
November 8, 2022
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Finance 101
Credit 101
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4
 min read

A Cheat Sheet To Decode Your Credit Report

Learn what’s in your credit report, how to get your credit report, and why being able to decode your credit report is the first step to building up your credit!

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Credit Wizard
November 7, 2022
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Credit 101
Mindless Ways to Track Your Spending
3
 min read

Mindless Ways to Track Your Spending

It has never been easier - and riskier - to spend money. Following your purchases will keep you in the loop when it comes to your finances. Break down your spending, determine your needs, and create a monthly budget to better keep track of your financial health.

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Credit Wizard
November 7, 2022
All
Finance 101
Debt Snowball vs. Debt Avalanche Method: What’s it All Mean?
4
 min read

Debt Snowball vs. Debt Avalanche Method: What’s it All Mean?

The thought of debt gives us the ick. Luckily, there are multiple methods of paying it off. While the debt snowball method is all about making small changes first to gain momentum, the avalanche method is about paying off the loans with the highest-interest rate.‍

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Credit Wizard
November 2, 2022
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Finance 101
Credit 101
what are credit points really worth
4
 min read

What Are Credit Card Points Really Worth

Debit and credit card points are given to you as a reward for your spending. We’ll all take reward points when they’re pitched to us, but what are they really worth? Do your research and find the card that aligns best with your lifestyle and spending habits.

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Credit Wizard
October 31, 2022
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Credit 101
Finance 101
Types of Credit Scores — What You Need to Know
3
 min read

Types of Credit Scores — What You Need to Know

Yes, there are many types of credit scores, but what’s most important is knowing that they exist and making sure they’re all in as best a position as they can get. So long as you’re handling credit responsibly and have a good grasp of the basics, you should be in the clear.

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Credit Wizard
October 28, 2022
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Credit 101
How To Remove "Debt Collections" From Your Credit Report
4
 min read

How To Remove "Debt Collections" From Your Credit Report

A debt collection on your credit report doesn’t look too pretty. Luckily, there are ways to scrub them from your credit report before they effect you long term. Don’t let a mistake from your past hold you back as you work towards a better financial future.

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Credit Wizard
October 27, 2022
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Credit 101
What is a Good Credit Mix?
4
 min read

What is a Good Credit Mix?

Your credit mix is one of the main factors in calculating your credit score, as it shows the different types of accounts you have open and demonstrates your responsibility. Luckily, there are ways to boost your mix and keep your credit in good standing.

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Credit Wizard
October 27, 2022
All
Credit 101
4 Ways to Find Out Where Your Money Is Really Going
3
 min read

4 Ways to Find Out Where Your Money Is Really Going

Making money is a game-changer, but it’s can be easy to lose track of where it’s all going. There are various methods from apps to Post-Its, to stay in the know about your finances. When you’re steady, you can find simple ways to make the most of your money.

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Credit Wizard
October 26, 2022
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Finance 101
Why Did My Credit Score Go Down When Nothing Has Changed?
3
 min read

Why Did My Credit Score Go Down When Nothing Has Changed?

After you’ve learned the basics of what makes up your credit report, it can still feel like you’re in the dark about what’s impacting your score. You may have overlooked a couple of things when considering what could have changed. Four scenarios may be the culprit.

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Credit Wizard
October 26, 2022
All
Credit 101
How to Master Credit Utilization
4
 min read

How to Master Credit Utilization

Credit utilization rate measures how much credit you’re using compared to how much is available. This ratio is significant, accounting for about 30% of your credit score. By having a grasp of your credit use and availability, you can take hold of your credit score.

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Credit Wizard
October 26, 2022
All
Credit 101
Finance 101
Why Do You Have 3 Credit Scores
3
 min read

Why Do You Have 3 Credit Scores

Credit bureaus are where most of your credit history is compiled. Since each bureau updates your score at different times and has different information, you’re going to see different scores. Teach yourself the basics of what goes into a credit report and work on those factors.

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Credit Wizard
October 26, 2022
All
Credit 101
What is The "Gender Credit Gap"?
4
 min read

What is The "Gender Credit Gap"?

Across their lifetimes, women are paying much more than men to borrow credit, but why? The “Gender Credit Gap” exists because of financial disengagement, limited credit exposure, and overall lower income. By exploring this, we can offer solutions and begin to close the gap.

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Credit Wizard
October 25, 2022
All
Finance 101
Debunking Credit Building Myths
5
 min read

Debunking Credit Building Myths

We get it; knowing what’s true or not can become frustrating, especially when it comes to credit. Myths appear and spread because people receive information from sources that are misinformed themselves. By debunking them, you can clear your head and focus on the critical.

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Credit Wizard
October 25, 2022
All
Credit 101
3
 min read

How to Unfreeze Credit

A credit freeze is an anti-fraud measure, put into place by those who suspect identity thieves. When credit is frozen, no financial institutions can access your credit information and lenders are unlikely to approve loans. Begin the process to unfreeze your credit today.

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Credit Wizard
October 25, 2022
All
Credit 101
What Are Short-Term Financial Goals?
5
 min read

What Are Short-Term Financial Goals?

Rather than thinking about money as something you should only spend long-term, shorter-range financial goals give the money you earn a greater purpose. Creating short-term goals will help you regain control of your life and better your relationship with money.

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Credit Wizard
October 25, 2022
All
Finance 101
An Ultimate Guide to Credit Counseling
4
 min read

An Ultimate Guide to Credit Counseling

Having a good credit score and financial position can improve your life in many ways. Your financial counselor or credit advisor should be able to help you formulate by giving you advice, actions, and knowledge on how to best build your credit. 

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Credit Wizard
October 24, 2022
All
Credit 101
What Is A Guarantor
3
 min read

What Is A Guarantor?

If you’ve taken out a loan or are looking to rent your first apartment, having a guarantor means that the creditor or landlord will receive payment from someone else if you aren’t keeping up with the bills. Build your credit to gain financial independence.

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Credit Wizard
October 24, 2022
All
Finance 101
Credit 101
What Is An Installment Loan?
3
 min read

What Is An Installment Loan?

Installment loans are useful tools for securing some cash for a new business, college tuition, or any life situation where you need it. While they can be advantageous, it’s best to build up your credit score before pursuing an installment loan.

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Credit Wizard
October 24, 2022
All
Finance 101
Breaking Down Your Minimum Monthly Payment
4
 min read

Breaking Down Your Minimum Monthly Payment

A minimum payment isn’t a complicated financial term: it’s the least you can pay every due date and accounts for all you owe, from your balance to your interest. You should always aim to pay more than the minimum as paying less can leave you in a stinky situation.

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Credit Wizard
October 21, 2022
All
Credit 101
Loan Vs. Line Of Credit: What's the Difference?
3
 min read

Loan Vs. Line Of Credit: What's the Difference?

A loan and a line of credit are both valuable tools that can add to your deck of financial resources. Although lines of credit and loans have their similarities, there are key differences between the two that you should be aware of, such as interest rates and flexibility.

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Credit Wizard
October 21, 2022
All
Credit 101
Stop Refreshing. How Often Does Your Credit Score Update?‍
2
 min read

Stop Refreshing. How Often Does Your Credit Score Update?

Although it’d be awesome to see some credit-building magic happen right in front of your eyes, credit scores don’t update as often as you may think. Typically an update will occur once a month, or every 45 days. In the meantime, keep taking action to improve your credit score.

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Credit Wizard
October 21, 2022
All
Credit 101
How Your Partner's Credit Score Affects You
3
 min read

How Your Partner's Credit Score Affects You

When you take your relationship to a deeper level and bring someone new into the mix there can be some well-warranted hesitation. You and your partner’s finances are important parts of your lives and it could change the trajectory of your relationship.

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Credit Wizard
October 20, 2022
All
Credit 101
Missed A Payment 5 Years Ago? Here's What to Do
3
 min read

Missed A Payment 5 Years Ago? Here's What to Do

When a late payment is reported, the mark leaves a stain on your credit score. Because you’ll depend on creditors throughout your life, it’s best to stay in their good graces. Luckily, with short and long-term goals, you can start working towards a stronger score.

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Credit Wizard
October 20, 2022
All
Credit 101
Does Checking Your Credit Score Lower It?
4
 min read

Does Checking Your Credit Score Lower It?

The two reasons for checking out your credit score warrant two kinds of credit checks: Soft and hard inquiries. Soft inquiries don’t impact your credit score, hard inquiries do. Stay in the loop on where you stand and take advantage of your credit score. 

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Credit Wizard
October 20, 2022
All
Credit 101
What is a goodwill letter?
4
 min read

What Is A Goodwill Letter?

Letters have been used for centuries to win lovers back and beg for forgiveness, so maybe one can help you with your credit score. A goodwill letter is one you write to a creditor in hopes that they’ll forgive your missed payment. If successful, they are life-changing.

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Credit Wizard
October 20, 2022
All
Finance 101
What Does Your Credit Score Start?
4
 min read

What Does Your Credit Score Start?

Once your social security number becomes associated with a credit account, your credit history will begin. You’re not going to start with an excellent score, but you’re unlikely to start at the lowest. Start understanding your credit score to get ahead of the game.

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Credit Wizard
October 20, 2022
All
Credit 101
Carrying a balance doesn't build credit
4
 min read

Carrying a Balance Doesn't Build Credit — Here's Why

Going into buying a home with bad credit can cause you to hit some rocky terrain. If your credit score is lower than 580, you’ll likely need a hefty amount of cash, a sufficient loan, a higher mortgage, or a co-signer. Plan ahead and build your credit.

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Credit Wizard
October 19, 2022
All
Credit 101
Emergency Fund_couple holding hands
4
 min read

How Much Money Do I Need For An Emergency Fund

Everyone should prepare themselves for an emergency; it’s how we make life easier when things take an unexpected turn. Keeping some of your money separate will help you navigate the world with less fear and more confidence. You’ll thank yourself someday.

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Credit Wizard
October 19, 2022
All
Finance 101
Family_How credit scores can impact different life stages
5
 min read

How Credit Scores Can Impact Different Life Stages

Your credit score is a part of you that will never go away. From your first car, to college living, to purchasing a home, and ultimately retirement, your credit score will always be important. Improve your credit score by understanding the best ways to build it up.

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Credit Wizard
October 19, 2022
All
Credit 101
What is an Overdraft Fee?
4
 min read

What is an Overdraft Fee?

When you don’t have enough money for a given purchase, the bank pays for you and charges an overdraft fee. In some ways, it can make you feel invincible. But once you go beyond your wallet, it can be hard to recover, especially as the dues keep climbing.

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Credit Wizard
October 19, 2022
All
Finance 101
Why Closing Your Bank Account Can Hurt Your Credit Score
5
 min read

Why Closing Your Bank Account Can Hurt Your Credit Score

To know when closing a bank account will affect your credit score, you need to know what makes up your credit report, from your credit mix to your credit history. If you understand these components and how they’ll effect your credit, you can safely navigate the breakup.

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Credit Wizard
October 19, 2022
All
Credit 101
Where to Keep An Emergency Fund
5
 min read

Where to Keep An Emergency Fund

After a job loss, market crash, and natural disaster, an emergency fund is vital, but you want your money to be around when you need it most. While exploring a place to keep your money, consider accessibility, the potential for growth, and security.

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Credit Wizard
October 19, 2022
All
Finance 101
women looking at laptop and taking notes
3
 min read

What in the World is a Lien?

Owing money comes with a variety of risks. One of these risks – a lien – is a legal term used to describe a property you put at stake while paying off your debts. The good news is so long as you pay off your debts, you don’t have to worry about your lien at all.

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Credit Wizard
October 19, 2022
All
Finance 101
riding a biking women
4
 min read

Everything You Need To Know About The FIRE Movement

The F.I.R.E. movement stands for “Financial independence, retire early.” To retire early you need to save and invest aggressively. F.I.R.E. takes “work hard, play hard” to a whole new level and requires extreme discipline. Time to make a game plan. 

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Credit Wizard
October 19, 2022
All
Finance 101
women smiling at computer
4
 min read

A Complete Guide to Manifesting Money

By changing your thinking and your outlook, you can manifest your dreams. We’ll help you refocus, recharge and manifest your financial goals today. 

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Credit Wizard
October 13, 2022
All
Finance 101
Traveler at an airport looking back
7
 min read

5 Ways Immigrants Can Begin To Build Credit in the United States

Extra wants to help everyone establish credit, no matter their current credit status. Whether you use the Extra Debit Card or one of the many other tips the Credit Wizard has offered, we wish you a successful credit-building journey and the most awesome-est of experiences in the U.S.

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Credit Wizard
October 7, 2022
All
Credit 101
Business woman leaning over railing
6
 min read

What You Need To Know About Lines of Credit

Borrowing money is a big deal so you should always know what options are available to you and use them wisely.

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Credit Wizard
December 17, 2021
All
Credit 101
Image of person making a selection in a shopping aisle
4
 min read

5 Mistakes to Avoid When Building Your Credit

When trying to build your credit, you can come across some rocky terrain. Continue to be a responsible credit builder by avoiding these five mistakes:

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Credit Wizard
December 15, 2021
All
Credit 101
Person scrolling on ipad at their table
3
 min read

10 Things All 20 Year Olds Should Know About Money

If you feel lost when it comes to money management, don’t worry, you’re not alone.

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Credit Wizard
November 24, 2021
All
Finance 101
Person looking at their laptop
4
 min read

A Deep Dive Into Each Credit Score Range

While credit score ranges may be a completely new word in your vocabulary — don’t worry. We compiled the ultimate breakdown of each credit score range so you know exactly what your credit score means.

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Credit Wizard
November 22, 2021
All
Credit 101
Two people sitting on a couch holding their phones and cards.
3
 min read

How to Dispute Your Credit Report

Your credit report is a breakdown of your financial history put together by the three credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). Sometimes, there are errors made that you'll want to dispute.

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Credit Wizard
November 18, 2021
All
Credit 101
Image of brownstone apartments
4
 min read

What to Expect from a Landlord Credit Check

Before a landlord agrees to rent an apartment to you, they want to make sure you’ll be able to pay your rent every month. The thought of this can be a bit overwhelming, but there are some things you can do to prepare for your prospective landlord’s credit check.

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Credit Wizard
November 11, 2021
All
Credit 101
Image of person holding their phone beside their credit card.
5
 min read

The Dangers of Credit Card Debt that Will Make You Stop Swiping

Credit card debt gets dangerous when it gets out of hand and it’s clear you’re living beyond your means with little to no plan of how to pay the credit card company back.

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Credit Wizard
October 24, 2021
All
Credit 101
Image of two people closing a packed box for moving
3
 min read

Everything You Need to Know About Buying a House

Congratulations! You’re getting ready to buy your own home — that’s kind of a big deal.

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Credit Wizard
October 21, 2021
All
Credit 101
Finance 101
5
 min read

Breaking Down a Good Credit Score

For better or worse, your credit score is important. Everyone wants to have a good one, but everyone doesn’t even know what a good one is. Don’t worry, we’re gonna let you in on the secret. 

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Credit Wizard
October 6, 2021
All
Credit 101
5
 min read

How to Save Money When You Barely Have Any

From furniture to an emergency fund, we’ve all got a long list of things we need to save for. But...how are you supposed to save money when you barely have any?

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Credit Wizard
October 6, 2021
All
Finance 101
5
 min read

Breaking Down Credit Score Ranges

Everyone is talking about credit scores but no one is explaining what they are, or where to even find out what your credit score is, so we broke down some credit score basics for you!

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Credit Wizard
September 8, 2021
All
Credit 101
6
 min read

How Student Loans Affect Your Credit Score

If you went to college, you probably had to take out a student loan or two. Most college students don’t have much of a choice. What most college kids don't know, however, is how these loans affect your credit score!

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Credit Wizard
September 8, 2021
All
Credit 101
5
 min read

What Credit Score Do You Need To Buy A Car?

It's no secret that most cars are expensive and that most car buyers in the US need a loan! The secret to a good loan? A good credit score!

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Credit Wizard
September 8, 2021
All
Credit 101
4
 min read

Tips For Financial Planning In Your 20's

Most twenty-somethings can relate to the idea of “figuring things out," so we rounded up our top financial tips for twenty-somethings who just don’t know where to start when it comes to a budget.

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Credit Wizard
September 8, 2021
All
Finance 101
woman holding a debit card
2
 min read

Debit Card Benefits You Didn't Know Existed

Your trusty debit card has some major benefits that you should take advantage of.

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Credit Wizard
July 23, 2021
All
Extra 101