Establishing Credit at a Young Age Set Your Kids up Right
Jan 22, 2024
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Credit expert Shonda Martin discusses the importance of establishing credit at a young age and the benefits of adding children as authorized users on credit cards. She explains the requirements for obtaining a FICO score and highlights the long-term effects of credit history over a high credit score. Shonda also provides valuable insights on credit card closures and managing credit utilization, emphasizing the significance of maintaining open accounts. Don't miss this insightful conversation on navigating the nuances of credit scoring!
Adding children as authorized users on credit cards at a young age can establish their credit profile by 18, giving them a head start in building good credit history.
Timing is crucial when closing credit cards, with recommendations to close cards with annual fees or no value after obtaining another card, and to create usage on inactive cards to prevent closure by the bank.
Deep dives
Importance of Establishing Credit at a Younger Age
Establishing credit at a younger age is crucial for building a solid financial foundation. By adding children as authorized users on credit cards from the ages of 16 to 17, they can have an established credit profile by the time they turn 18. This gives them a head start in building their own credit history and can provide access to better credit card offers compared to starting from scratch at 18. It is important to apply for a credit card before a student loan and to prioritize credit card usage for establishing credit age, as credit cards can remain open indefinitely, unlike loans that eventually reach their term date.
Timing and Considerations for Closing Credit Cards
When it comes to closing credit cards, timing is crucial. It is recommended to close a card that has an annual fee or is of no value once you have another card and are certain that you won't be making any large purchases within the next six months. Closing a card can negatively affect your credit score, especially if it is your oldest account, as credit age plays a significant role in credit scores. Creating usage on inactive cards, such as linking subscriptions to them, can help prevent the bank from closing them due to non-usage.
Understanding Credit Score Goals and Borrowing Power
While a credit score of 700 or higher is often considered a desirable goal, it is important to focus on the overall credit profile rather than just the score itself. A healthy credit profile, free of late payments and collections, with at least four open accounts at all times, can ensure higher borrowing power. Lenders also consider the number of open accounts and recent credit activity when assessing creditworthiness. A score of 680 and above, coupled with a strong credit profile, can make it easier to be approved for various credit opportunities.
In this episode, Troy Millings speaks with credit expert Shonda Martin to discuss the crucial topic of establishing credit at a young age. Shonda stresses the importance of setting children up for financial success by adding them as authorized users on credit cards at 16 or 17 years old, ensuring they have an established credit profile by the time they turn 18. She emphasizes that simply turning 18 does not automatically grant a FICO score and outlines the necessary credit history requirements for it.
Shonda also delves into the misconception regarding the impact of adding children to credit cards at a younger age, emphasizing the potential risks and benefits of such actions. She shares personal experiences and offers valuable insights into the long-term effects of credit history, emphasizing the value of a well-managed credit profile over a high credit score. Additionally, Shonda provides practical advice on handling credit card closures, shedding light on how such actions can affect one's credit score and offering guidance on when it's appropriate to close a card.
The discussion also covers the significance of credit card age and how it contributes to a solid credit foundation, highlighting the benefits of maintaining open accounts and managing credit utilization. Shonda's expert advice on navigating the nuances of credit scoring provides invaluable knowledge for individuals seeking to build and maintain a healthy credit profile. Don't miss this insightful conversation that explores the complexities of credit establishment and management, providing practical strategies for optimizing financial well-being.