Establishing a good credit history is important. A few basic tips:

• Maintain a steady work record
• Avoid frequent job and address changes
• Pay your bills on time
• Always keep a positive balance in your checking account
• Use less than 25% of your available credit
• More information

We highly recommend taking advantage of the free financial education at GreenPath.

Through comprehensive education and exceptional service, GreenPath has been assisting people with their finances for more than 50 years. They are a trusted partner that can provide personalized answers to your needs. Even better - many of their services are free of charge for our members.

Professional help is available for:

• Personal/family budgeting and money management
• Understanding your credit report/how to improve your score
• Debt repayment (fees may apply for this service)
• Avoiding bankruptcy, foreclosure and repossession

Contact them for a free, no-pressure consultation. They're ready to help.

• Visit GreenPath online
• Call 877-337-3399
• Hours: (EST)
  • Mon - Thurs 8am - 10pm
  • Friday 8am - 7pm
  • Saturday 9am - 6pm

It might be tempting to view your 401(k) as a source of emergency funds, but before you dip into your retirement account for cash, we recommend you explore alternatives and consult with your tax preparer. More Information.

To make this decision, calculate your monthly payments and your total net cost. When you compare these amounts, you can determine which option is right for you. Use our Auto Buy or Lease calculator to help you.

Co-signers lend their names and good credit histories to the borrower applying for the loan. The loan will appear on both the borrower's and co-signer's credit reports.

Should the borrower pass away, lose a job, or otherwise fail to make payments, all responsibility for meeting the terms of the loan transfers to the co-signer. Before co-signing any loan, be sure you are prepared to accept full responsibility for the loan in the event the borrower becomes unable or unwilling to make payments.

 More information

To start, view Record Keeping in our Financial Resource Center. We also recommend discussing your particular needs with your tax advisor.