Your credit score is a three-digit number that is calculated according to your credit history, including the types of credit based accounts you own, how long you have been managing those accounts, and whether you make your payments on time.

If you’ve ever applied for a loan, tried to open a new credit card account, considered refinancing your mortgage, or even applied for an auto insurance policy, you’ve at least been exposed to the power that your credit score can hold. But how exactly did the concept of credit scores begin and how have credit scores changed over time, finally evolving into the products they are today?

Personal loans can be used for a variety of big or unexpected expenses, often at a lower cost than alternative consumer options, like credit cards. Whether you need a personal loan to fix your car, cover sudden medical bills, or pay for a home renovation project, a personal loan product can give you access to the funds you need with the flexibility to pay it back over time.

Whether you’re looking to buy a home or car, take out a loan, open a credit card account, or even purchase a new auto insurance policy, your credit score will likely come into play. This three-digit number is calculated based on a variety of financial factors, and can influence whether a lender or creditor is willing to work with you.

The start of a new year is always an exciting time. After the holiday season has wound down, the presents have been put away, and the last of the extended family has gone home, many of us are left reflecting on what the past year brought and what we hope to get out of the year to come.

Traditional banking institutions have been around for centuries, giving consumers a place to safely store their money, conduct business, and take out loans and other financial products. These institutions can include local banks, credit unions, or national chains.

There are many instances in life when your credit health gets examined. For better or worse, your credit score (and even credit history) can play a huge factor in achieving many of life’s goals.

It’s no secret that your credit history and score play an important role in your financial life. Your credit can both open doors for you and close them, depending on whether or not you have built a strong history over the years.