Set goals high, debt low to improve credit score

A recent report shows the proportion of Americans who have FICO credit scores below 600 - a level that makes it nearly impossible to get loans - has risen to 25.5 percent, up from 24.1 percent two years ago. The likely cause: rising unemployment and bad... Credit score - FICO - Business - Financial Services - United States

Fix your credit score, step by step

A credit score is computed in five parts. Follow these hints to improve each component.

Consumer credit card debt shrinks again in July

Consumer credit card debt fell by more than $4 billion in July, a record 22nd straight monthly drop, according to the latest Federal Reserve data.

Watch out for hidden fees on "free" credit report websites

If you're looking for a loan, you'll need a good credit score. So called free credit reporting companies sometimes charge a fee. There are other options that never require fees to get an accurate credit score.

TransUnion's Credit Risk Index (CRI) Continues to Decrease, Signaling Improved Consumer Credit Risk Conditions

CHICAGO, IL--(Marketwire - 09/08/10) - TransUnion's proprietary Credit Risk Index continued its decline in the second quarter of 2010, indicating that consumers in the U.S. are less of a credit risk than in previous quarters. At the end of the second quarter of 2010 the TransUnion CRI for the U.S. decreased 0.9 percent and now stands at 127.66. The TransUnion CRI decreased nationally 117 basis ...