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We’ve all been told that our credit scores matter — but what does that really mean?  

A high credit score can open doors. It can help you get a lower interest rate on a car loan, qualify for a mortgage or even make it easier to rent an apartment. 

But a lower score? It can quietly cost you thousands of dollars in higher interest payments over time — money that could be going towards your savings, your home or your future. 

MPR News guest host Catharine Richert talks with a financial coach about what determines your credit score, simple steps to improve it and the smart choices that can strengthen your financial health for years to come. 

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What’s your credit score? And why does it matter? MPR News guest host Catharine Richert talks with a financial coach about how your credit can open doors — or quietly cost you thousands — and what habits can build better credit. 

We’ve all been told that our credit scores matter — but what does that really mean?  A high credit score can open doors. It can help you get a lower interest rate on a car loan, qualify for a mortgage or even make it easier to rent an apartment. But a lower score? It can quietly cost you thousands of dollars in higher interest payments over time — money that could be going towards your savings, your home or your future. MPR News guest host Catharine Richert talks with a financial coach about what determines your credit score, simple steps to improve it and the smart choices that can strengthen your financial health for years to come. 

The power of good credit: Understanding and improving your credit score

A stack of Visa and MasterCard credit cards.

The power of good credit: Understanding and improving your credit score

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