Skyla Credit Union Blog

Credit. It's a scary topic. Mainly because so many things can surprisingly ruin your credit scores, such as late or missed payments, applying for more credit cards, carrying high credit card balances, ignoring your credit report, and more.

It’s understandable to be concerned about your credit score being affected when opening a new credit account. In your research, you probably want to weigh your options to not only compare which account will get you the lowest interest rate for loans (for highest return on savings), but also if opening the account will affect your credit score.

So you’re ready to establish or build your credit score and are looking for ways to do it? In your credit building research, you’ve probably come across the recommendation to open a credit card. On one hand, credit cards can help you build credit, earn rewards and access exclusive benefits, and provide you with extra cash flow when you don’t have the money at your disposal. On the other hand, a credit card could hurt your credit score, your credit history, and your wallet if you used too much of your limit, carry a balance and rack up interest charges, or miss a payment. Since this financial tool comes across as a blessing if used properly and a curse if misused, you may want to avoid credit cards altogether.

Some people don't realize a problem with their credit score until it's time to apply for a loan. Then, the most recommended way to increase your score is to take out more loans to prove to lenders you’re responsible. But what if you just can't afford to get another loan - then what?

Short and sweet? Yes, your credit score will decrease when you officially apply for a credit card. But don't worry - The drop is temporary and the score increases after a couple of weeks and the benefits of having a credit card far outweigh the initial drop in score. By that time, you could be using your credit card responsibly where the lender reports your positive credit card activity to the bureau. In turn, that positive activity will boost your credit score even higher

As an adult, you have a credit report that summarizes how you've handled your credit accounts which are reviewed and scored. Think of it as your credit report is your new report card, and your credit score is your new GPA. A negative inquiry or delinquency on your report can drastically lower your credit score. This can take time to restore which you might think will ultimately put a hold on many parts of your life, like financing a car.