Credit Scores: The Financial Alchemy in the American Economy | 24

Host Chey, also known as the WitchyBookkeeper, shares her insights on the history and evolution of credit reporting, from its origins in the 1800s to the modern FICO scoring system.Chey discusses the five key components that make up a credit score: payment history, amounts owed, length of credit history, new credit, and credit mix. She emphasizes the importance of paying bills on time and maintaining a low credit utilization rate to maintain a healthy credit score.The episode also addresses the inherent racism in the credit scoring system, highlighting how millions of Americans, particularly those from black, Hispanic, and low-income communities, are "credit invisible" due to a lack of credit history. Chey argues that the current system perpetuates a cycle that prevents these individuals from accessing the credit they need to get ahead in life.Throughout the episode, Chey offers practical tips for building and improving credit scores, such as becoming an authorized user on someone else's credit card or using secured credit cards. She encourages listeners to be patient, as building credit takes time.This informative episode of "Money & Magic" combines the mystical with the practical, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of credit scores and their impact on personal finances in the United States.Buy Me a CoffeeConnect with me on Instagram and TikTok @witchybookkeeper Learn more about how we can work together by visiting my websiteCheck out my Money Alchemy 101 course HERE