Advertise on podcast: Credit Coaching by Kristi

Are you "fixing" your credit by disputing everything negative? When people say they are “working on their credit,” they often mean someone is disputing every negative account on their report. But disputing information is not the same thing as fixing your credit. In this episode of Credit Coaching by Kristi, Kristi explains the difference between correcting inaccurate information, improving your overall credit profile, and protecting your credit from future damage. You’ll learn why repeatedly disputing legitimate accounts can create temporary results instead of lasting improvement, how unresolved disputes may complicate the mortgage approval process, and which actions can make a meaningful difference when preparing to buy a home. Why “credit repair” and credit improvement are not always the same thing When you should dispute information on your credit report When a dispute may be unnecessary or ineffective Why accurate negative information can return after a dispute How active disputes may affect a mortgage application The difference between credit-card debt and installment debt Why lowering revolving credit utilization may help your score How statement balances can affect what appears on your credit report Whether you should close paid-off credit cards How becoming an authorized user may help—or hurt—your credit What to consider before paying collections or charge-offs Why you should avoid opening new accounts before buying a home How to freeze your credit with all three credit bureaus What your credit report is actually measuring Practical steps to correct, improve, and protect your credit Your credit is not repaired by hiding accurate information. It improves when you correct legitimate errors, reduce revolving balances, protect your payment history, manage your accounts responsibly, and give those healthier patterns enough time to be reflected in your credit profile. Your credit report tells part of your financial story, but it does not measure your intelligence, your character, your income, or your worth.. This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not individualized legal, financial, or credit advice.

This one blew my mind. The Federal Reserve did a 15 year study over 12 million people and found an equation for determining how long a relationship might last depending on the credit score gap. Woah- wait, what?! Your credit score and profile is so much more than just a report to determine your interest rate or if you will be approved for a loan... it is a report of character. The Federal Reserve conducted this study to learn more about financial behaviors and accidentally stumbled on findings of relationship success based on credit scores at the time of starting a relationship. I found it fascinating and wanted to share this with you today. The Fed's abstract page: https://www.federalreserve.gov/econres/feds/credit-scores-and-committed-relationships.htmquestions@creditkristi.com

In this episode, learn from Coach Kristi that the system is likely geared against you. You have to learn the rules of the game in order to win. It's not taught by our parents or in school, at least not the proper way, it is up to you to learn on your own. Otherwise, you are potentially paying tens of thousands of dollars over time in additional finance fees than you would with a great credit score. Learn about the debt trap and how to get out. You can do this! #credit #creditcards #managingcredit #debtmanagement #creditcoaching #credittips #moneymoneymoney

President Trump sure is shaking things up. Social media is a-buzz with his crazy antics. Last week he went on social and posted he was going to have credit card APRs get reduced to 10% for a year. The goal is that with the lower APR, more of your payment goes to reducing your credit card balance. BUT, there are things he is not thinking through that could actually hurt millions of people rather than help them in that scenario. And what does money cost? The cost to borrow can be staggering. Listen in as your coach gives a few examples (which are intended to hurt so you pay your debts down faster!). [email protected] Pick up your copy of the Finish Financially Free book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/36v9jb8

Before the action steps of paying off debt, getting out of debt, staying out debt, we really need to know a few angles in psychology that affects our spending and buying decisions. It even affects our commitments! Tune in to learn some really deep stuff about how the brain works when it comes to money decisions. [email protected]

So many adults overspend during the holidays because they’re trying to give their kids what they never had — not realizing they’re actually trying to heal a younger version of themselves.It’s love… but misdirected.And it often leads to debt and anxiety come January. This episode helps listeners: Spot emotional spending Understand their triggers Build boundaries that still let them be generous Protect their credit + peace [email protected]

Millions of people feel like they are drowning in debt. $700+ car payments, tens of thousands in student loans and credit card balances, and month after month, payment after payment, it feels like a dent hasn't even been made. Listen in as your coach shares ideas and suggestions inspired by a podcast episode she was listening to from BiggerPockets.com. [email protected] Finish Financially Free Book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/eBOMxuK

In the not too distant past, smaller medical debts that become collections were no longer allowed to be added/reported to your credit report. Unpaid medical debt remains the leading cause of consumer credit damage.Well, a Texas judge recently overturned that and well... the CFPB (Consumer Financial Protection Bureau) doesn't seem to be putting the gloves on to fight this fight. So what can you do if this is your struggle? The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) prohibits harassment and requires validation of debts. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) lets consumers dispute inaccurate or duplicate debts.If you’re struggling with medical debt, check whether your state, county or city offers assistance programs.UndueMedicalDebt.org Explore nonprofit aid organizations. Groups like the Healthwell Foundation or PAN Foundation may help with treatment costs or prescriptions. [email protected]

I read an article that gave some startling stats on Gen Z's: a BIG percentage are quite nervous, or more like anxious, about their credit profile. Many have not even checked their credit before! Yikes! If you are or know a Gen Z, please share this episode with them so they can learn the 5 pillars that is the foundation of their credit scores. Having a solid credit profile is essential to have a great financial plan. And my newest book is now available! Pick up your copy at https://a.co/d/hPA81Aw [email protected]

Do you utilize Buy Now, Pay Later loans? A few of them had shown up on credit (Affirm is known for reporting) but many only appear on your credit report if you are late or it becomes a collection. But starting Fall 2025, BNPL loans will be added to your credit profile, which can help lots of people with thin or no credit to establish a credit profile. If you are struggling with debt and need help or a way out from under it all, consider https://www.nfcc.org/ to negotiate with your creditors for better terms and rates. These are non profit credit counseling agencies. Please DO NOT go to National Debt Relief or a company similar. They will destroy your credit and stick your creditors. Check out my Peopling book: https://a.co/d/6xC7A6F [email protected]

What is credit, really? It's usually... debt. This is why Dave Ramsey teaches and preaches the way he does- saying don't use credit cards. It's because most of us need guard rails against going into debt and getting into trouble. Our society is being taught to borrow for everything- your furniture, your cell phone, and now, even your groceries with Buy Now Pay Later Loans. I am going to throw a lot of info at you on this one, but take in the debt numbers and realize that as a country, we are in trouble- and I am not even talking about the $37 Trillion in National Debt. I am talking about that sizable household debt- even aside from mortgage loans- that are suffocating and burying us with debt payments. It's causing anxiety, frustration, friction and even health problems. [email protected]

Student loans were in forbearance for several years but now, for most people with student loans, the expectation and requirement is to repay those loans with scheduled monthly payments. But approximately 24% of those with outstanding balances are not making payments! Yikes! This is wrecking havoc on credit scores and profiles, not to mention potentially keeping people from getting approved for auto or home loans. If you are one of the MILLIONS of people with student loans now back in repayment, listen in to the details. [email protected]

Are you dreaming of buying your home one day but your credit hasn't been cooperating? Well great news! In a historic decision, the Federal Housing Finance Agency, the parent authority over Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, has recently announced they are accepting VantageScore 4.0 to be accepted! Up until now, only FICO models were acceptable. This change could help millions more show up on paper in a way that leads to loan approval, where in the past they may have experienced scores too low or credit too thin for approval. This is a GAME CHANGER and truly exciting! [email protected]

Millions of people are struggling financially. Listen in as your coach shares some guidance to help with some practical steps to create a spending plan (budget) . [email protected]

If you carry forward a large balance on your credit card month after month, there is a good chance that you have received a letter from a company such as Credit Associates LLC or National Debt Relief offering "Credit Card Debt Forgiveness" and stating you may be "entitled to a reduced settlement of your outstanding credit balance." It's a trap that will cost you, not only a 25% fee but wreckage of your credit profile for years following. Listen in as your coach reads you the contents of the letter and explains all the warning signs and offers alternatives. [email protected]