#14: The credit score is the metric for how borrower creditworthiness is judged.

In episode 14, I talk with Louis DeNicola a consumer credit expert and credit writer who works with clients including Experian, Credit Karma, LendingTree, and Nova Credit.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• How credit scores are calculated and how each major component is weighted
• Why credit scores fluctuate constantly and how lenders and card companies often use proprietary credit scoring models internally
• How to increase and protect your credit score
• What to focus on when auditing your credit report
• The difference between soft vs. hard inquiries and how each impacts your credit
• The optimal “utilization” level (plus a hack for making your utilization appear low)

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Louis DeNicola
• FICO
• VantageScore
• AnnualCreditReport.com
• HYW private Facebook community

Intro/Outro: Old Bossa by Twin Musicom.