Hey Frugal Feministas:

I am working with Wells Fargo to help spread the word about their Get Smart About Credit Campaign. Based on some of your responses from the survey that I sent, I jumped at the opportunity to be a part of this initiative to help improve and strengthen credit scores in our community.  Take  a look below at  some stats as wells as habit tips that we can keep in mind when handling our credit profiles. 

Btw– If you are asking yourself, “what survey?”, here is the link to the How to Get More Money in Your Pocket and Juiciness In Your Life survey.  (I literally takes less than 5 minutes to complete and gives me a lot of insight into what you want to see on The Frugal Feminista.) 

Juicily Yours,

Kara

A recent Wells Fargo survey revealed that 64 percent of people believe a very good credit score is required to buy a home. Although this finding highlights one of the many misconceptions consumers have about credit, it also presents an opportunity for education. This especially resonates within the African American community as recent studies show that four out of five African Americans (79%) feel that building up a strong credit history and improving their credit score is important to them right now (vs. 57% in the full U.S. sample). To help consumers understand the impact credit has on their financial health and wellness, Wells Fargo is offering their consumer customers a free credit score and complimentary credit report now from Oct. 1 through Nov. 16, 2014.

Many people wait until they need a loan to think about their credit situation. A strong credit profile can help consumers qualify for credit at the lowest rates possible. As such, Wells Fargo recommends consumers keep these important habits in mind to responsibly manage their credit:

1. Check your credit report annually.

2. Pay your bills on time.

3. Keep debt at no more than 35 percent of your gross monthly income.

4. Understand how strong credit impacts your bottom line.

5. Establish and maintain healthy credit – even if you don’t need a loan.