Fix your credit score, step by step

A credit score is computed in five parts. Follow these hints to improve each component.

Quest for the perfect credit score

A major league pitcher dreams of throwing a perfect game. High schoolers eyeing the Ivy League study furiously in hopes of earning 2400 on the SAT. Meanwhile, Chris Peplinski is pursuing his own brand of flawlessness: an 850 credit score.

Raising a credit score requires fiscal awareness

Q: I am looking to buy my first home, but my credit score isn’t good and there is negative information on my credit report. I’ve made some errors in judgment. How can I increase my credit status to the point where I can purchase my first home?

Consider your FICO score before closing credit card accounts

Guido Krzikowski/Bloomberg News Q. I’m really angry with my three credit cards, all from different banks. They’ve all lowered my available credit and one added a new annual fee. I have great credit and I’m thinking about canceling these cards...

WATCH: Can Company Credit Cards Affect Your Credit?

If your company goes under, credit cards could go after you for the balance. Credit card - Business - Financial Services - Banking Services - Credit score

The Investigators: Credit Card "Backdoor Numbers"

Try getting in through the "back door" -- with the alternative credit card customer service numbers that Andy Wise dug up!

Don't let fiance's debt ruin your credit

You may want to help with your fiance's debt, but follow these tips to protect your credit.

Roseman: Here’s the scoop on your credit score

If you want the best credit rates, check out a three-digit number that tells lenders whether or not you’re a good risk.

NSU non-credit classes

Northwestern State University will offer a roster of engaging non-credit courses during September.  Registration is open to the public for the courses offered through NSU's Office of Electronic and Continuing Education.

Healthier market will push lenders to rethink automated credit scoring

Industry experts predict that when the market gets back on its feet and competition increases major lenders will be forced to change their automated credit scoring systems.