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Nerd Blog!

An image of a cartoon style girl in a graduation cap and gown. She wonders how her student loans will affect her credit score.

Student loans are a common financial concern, and their impact goes beyond just paying them off. They can influence your credit health, and understanding this connection is crucial. In addition, the Fresh Start program introduced in April 2022 by the U.S. Department of Education (ED) has potential implications for your credit. Let's delve into these …

A cartoon style man wearing glasses holding a credit card.

Choosing the right credit card can be a daunting task, given the multitude of options available. To make an informed decision, follow these four simple steps. Know Your Credit Standing Start by understanding your current credit situation. This involves checking your credit score, which plays a significant role in determining the types of cards you're …

A cartoon image of a man wearing glasses. He is stressed out about the consequences of loan defaulting.

When you default on a loan, it's not just about missed payments; it can lead to a cascade of financial repercussions that affect your credit, your assets, and even your legal standing. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the repercussions of loan default, the different types of loans, and what you can expect …

A cartoon style image of a man wearing glasses. He is looking into what a CPN is.

Many individuals hesitate to divulge their Social Security numbers to financial institutions due to concerns about identity theft. The term CPN (Credit Privacy Number) has surfaced as an alternative, but what exactly is a CPN? Defining CPNs: Credit Profile Numbers CPN stands for Credit Profile Number, Credit Privacy Number, or Consumer Protection Number. While similar …

A cartoon image of a woman holding a pre-approved credit offer.

In the world of finance, it's essential to be cautious when applying for loans or credit cards to avoid negatively impacting your credit score. One term you might encounter during your research is "prequalification." But does prequalification affect your credit score? The simple answer is no; checking to see if you prequalify for a loan …

A cartoon image of a kid with a magnifying glass going over a credit report.

If you ever need expert assistance or guidance on your credit journey, don't hesitate to reach out to the Nerds! Additionally, stay updated with the latest tips and information by following us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok! Understanding Derogatory Marks on Your Credit Report Derogatory marks, also known as derogatory credit items, are negative entries on your …

Understanding Credit Score Ranges: What You Need to Know Credit scores typically fall within a range of 300 to 850, but variations can extend from as low as 250 to as high as 900. The specific range depends on the scoring model used to evaluate your credit. Many people aren't aware that they possess multiple …

A cartoon image of a man surrounded by credit cards.

Should you notice an abrupt decline in your credit score without any apparent reason, it could be attributed to the presence of unwarranted credit inquiries. However, take solace in the fact that credit bureaus sometimes offer the option to remove these unauthorized inquiries from your credit report. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve deeply …

A cartoon image of a man holding a pencil looking over his report. "What is a good credit score?" he wonders.

An impressive credit score is often defined as having a FICO® rating above 670. When you're considering a credit card, car loan, or mortgage, lenders heavily rely on this three-digit assessment to gauge your financial credibility, making it a significant factor in their decision to extend you financial opportunities. Understanding how this rating is calculated …