Using Credit Responsibly

The sum of money you pay upfront when making a purchase, typically a large one like a car or a house, to reduce the total amount you need to borrow.

A number from 300 to 850 that depicts a consumer's creditworthiness. The higher the score, the better.

The total cost of borrowing money, including both the interest rate and any annual fees.

The original amount of money you borrow before adding interest.

To discuss and reach an agreement through compromise when dealing with others.

The fee you pay when you borrow money, usually given as a percentage.

Allows you to borrow money or buy things now and promise to pay for them later.

The reasonable price at which an item or property would sell in a typical market.

When someone wrongfully obtains and uses another person's personal information with the intent to commit fraud, typically for financial gain.