The exact FICO credit scoring formula is a closely guarded secret, but it consists of five specific categories of information, each with its own weight. Here are some effective strategies for improving your credit score: **Secured Credit Card** One solid strategy is to open a secured credit card account. This works like a standard credit card but requires a deposit to "secure" the account. Your payment history gets reported to the credit bureaus, helping to build positive information on your credit report. **Damage Control** Addressing negative information on your credit report is crucial. If you have old collection accounts, consider negotiating with creditors. You might get some accounts completely removed after settling, while others can be marked as "paid in full." **Applying for More Credit Than Needed** It may seem counterintuitive, but applying for a few credit cards can be beneficial. Since 30% of your FICO® Score comes from the "amounts owed" category, having more available credit allows you to keep your usage low, which positively impacts your score. **Building a Payment History** Remember, 35% of your FICO® Score is based on payment history, and another 15% is influenced by the length of credit history. Paying your bills on time every month is one of the most effective ways to steadily improve your score. **Not a Complete List** These tips are just a starting point. Credit repair takes time and consistent responsible behavior—there are no quick fixes for bad credit. The best way to reach higher credit tiers is through dedication and patience.

Can I apply for credit limit increase to 38k to lower my utilization? currently owe 8k on my NAVY fed credit card 30k limit. I can pay 3-4k to only owe 4k when I try. Will I be approved?

I haven’t logged into this business checking account in months, but has happy to see this. Data points: 790 scores(roughly) No deposits in this checking account in 6 months+, but have a small balance sitting in there. Have 3-4 other Chase Ink cards with other businesses and zero balance for 2+ years. I am not moving forward with this yet, but may do so in the near future. The reason is there will still be a hard inquiry and it may or may not take a while to remove.

### S&T Bank Checking Account Bonus Offer I wanted to share an exciting opportunity available from S&T Bank for those living in Pennsylvania and Ohio. They are currently offering a bonus of up to $350 when you open a qualifying checking account. Here are the details: #### Offer Overview - **Maximum Bonus Amount:** Up to $350. - **Eligibility:** Must be a resident of Pennsylvania or Ohio and live within approximately 2 miles of a branch. - **Promo Code:** STEPA1Q24. - **Minimum Opening Deposit:** $50 (must maintain until the bonus posts). #### Requirements to Earn Bonus To qualify for the bonus, you need to meet the following conditions: 1. Make an initial deposit of $550 within 10 days of account opening. 2. Complete at least ten $10 S&T Bank Visa Debit card purchases (these must be posted and cleared). 3. Enroll in online statements. The first $100 will be credited to your account approximately one month after completing these tasks. If you open the account online, you will receive an additional $50 bonus. A further $200 will be credited around the six-month anniversary of your account opening, provided you meet the debit card and online statement requirements. #### Fees - **Monthly Fees:** The Select Checking Account has no monthly fees. However, there is a $3 fee if you do not use bill pay. You can avoid this fee by removing bill pay from your account. - **Early Account Termination Fee:** The account must remain open for at least six months to avoid any early termination fees. #### Fine Print - This offer is not available to current S&T Bank checking customers or those who have closed an account in the past 12 months. - New accounts are ineligible if any signer has signing authority on an existing S&T Bank consumer checking account. - The offer cannot be combined with any other checking offers and is subject to change or termination without notice. - One incentive payout per household. - The account must not be overdrawn during the promotional period to receive any of the incentives.

Hey everyone! 👋 I’m curious to hear your thoughts on something fun. Whether you’re into movies, books, music, or even hobbies, I’d love to know: What's one thing you absolutely can't live without in your daily life