Starting from zero can feel like a Catch-22- you need credit to build credit. FinanciFI Coaching shares practical ways to establish your first credit lines, from authorized user status and secured cards to co-signing and student loans, all while avoiding common pitfalls.

Payment history, credit utilization, account age, credit mix, and new credit- all five influence your FICO® Score. This post explains how each component works and what small, consistent actions can make your score climb faster than you might think.

Your credit score affects far more than just loans- it can influence insurance rates, housing, and everyday costs. In this post, FinanciFI Coaching breaks down what a FICO® score is, why it matters, and how knowing the “rules of the game” helps you make smarter money decisions.