During this festive time of the year, most of us have holiday shopping, cooking, and traveling to visit friends and family on our minds. We’re focused on scheduling time off, making year-end charitable donations, and prepping our cars and homes for the next snowstorm. But in the flurry of yuletide cheer, hot chocolate, and gift wrapping, it can be easy to forget this key factor in your financial life: your credit score.
Whether you like it or not, your credit score won’t go on vacation when you do this holiday season; and unfortunately, no matter how much you deserve it, a good credit score won’t appear wrapped up under the tree. However, during a high-spending time of the year, it’s more important than ever to look out for your credit score which has an influence on things such as loan applications and interest rates.
So, what can you do to maintain a good credit score during this busy month? There are many ways people work to protect their credit score. Here are a few quick tips for success:
Remember to pay your bills on time
As most credit card holders know, when you neglect to pay your bill in full by the due date, you may incur not only fees, but also credit score implications. An on-time payment history is a key factor that major credit bureaus use to calculate your credit score. Don’t forget to mark your calendar or set an alert so your payment is on time.
Be wary of new credit inquiries
The holidays are a popular time for retail promotions and zero-percent financing when you sign up for a new card. If you choose to sign up, inquiries on your report may impact your credit score. Think ahead before you sign up for a new card and make a large purchase that you may not truly need.
There are many factors at work in the calculation of your credit score, and even more strategies for managing your credit, payments, and score. Your credit score is relevant all year round, and you will do yourself a favor if you protect it during the holidays.
To learn more about using credit and applying for a loan, please visit a local Camden National Bank banking center or call us as 800-860-8821 to get started. Our team of loan specialists would be more than happy to assist you.
