Hopefully, you’re working hard to keep a high credit score by using your cards and paying on time. You may be wondering if more is better. Is several credit cards and more available credit a good idea or are too many cards a liability to your score? Let’s explore the major components of your credit that scoring agencies, like FICO and VantageScore, use to calculate your score:
Your payment history.
The timeliness of your payments comprises 65% of your FICO score. VantageScore calls payment history “extremely influential” in your score. This score is used for auto loans and other large loans, though most mortgage lenders only consider your FICO score.
Your credit utilization.
Credit scoring companies look at how much of your available credit you are using. They also review the age of your credit history. Lenders want to see a long and active history of credit cards and on-time payments.
Your credit diversity.
A variety of credit indicates that you are an attractive borrower.
Why have several open cards?
Over time, having multiple cards can boost your score in two important areas:
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The right number of credit cards
There is no magic number of cards you should shoot for to achieve a high credit score. Instead, let’s take a look at the credit cards of consumers with excellent scores. Statistics find that the average individual with a FICO score exceeding 785 has seven open credit cards. The average credit account is 11 years old and the most recently opened account is 28 months old. While it may be OK to have a few cards, having lots of NEW cards probably won’t help you achieve excellent credit.
When not to open new cards
If you’re planning on taking out a large loan within the next year, applying for new cards can hurt your score. Here’s why:
Keeping your credit score strong can positively affect your finances for years to come.
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