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You’re probably familiar with credit in your everyday life. Many Americans have credit cards, use them for everyday expenses, and (most) try to act responsibly to increase their credit scores. But where did it all come from? How did “credit” come about? And why is it such a prevalent part of our daily lives?

The History of the US Credit Industry from Railroads to Credit Scores

The railroad industry that initially connected America’s cities was funded almost entirely by government-backed bonds and high-interest private debt. It was the first industry that required billions in funding, made possible only though the pooling of money on a massive scale. This introductory phase of corporate finance saw corruption, scandal, and later, reform. Why is this piece of history important? Because this was the first time that debt became its own business in America. The railroad industry essentially collapsed due to the prioritization of debt payments over infrastructure and innovation. Many railroad companies went bankrupt, and the industry began to lose its luster.

Before credit scores were conceived, borrowers relied on testimony from friends and neighbors to vouch for their character and creditworthiness. But as credit reporting began to modernize, private firms began tinkering with ways to standardize the evaluation of credit. These early reports were subjective at best and often discriminatory, as they were influenced by the social biases that were held at the time. Eventually, private firms began to move toward impersonal, algorithmic forms of credit evaluations. Concerns over privacy and surveillance led to the Fair Credit Reporting Act in 1970, a landmark piece of legislation that required credit bureaus to open their files to the public. It also required the expungement of data on race, sexuality, and disability, as well as the deletion of negative information after a specified period of time.

In 1989, the “Big Three” credit reporting agencies (Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian) began to use a credit-reporting algorithm developed by FICO. This algorithm is basically the same algorithm used to generate your credit score today, which is a comprehensive assessment of your financial trustworthiness. Loans represent risk in the eyes of lenders, and a credit score functions as a financial identity, quantifying the likelihood that a particular borrower can – and will – pay back their loan. Credit history, paying off loans, late payments, declaring bankruptcy, and even simply applying for a loan can all affect your credit score.

The Fiduciary Responsibility

Understanding the origins of the credit industry can help contextualize many of our financial decisions and can help us appreciate how far our nation has come in terms of fair, responsible financing practices. Financial advisories like ours are bound to a fiduciary responsibility, meaning we’re legally obligated to act in your best interest. As a fiduciary, financial responsibility is the backbone of our business, and with March being credit awareness month, this is the perfect opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to that responsibility. And when it comes to credit management, we’re here to help you understand how credit works in your life and to empower you to make informed financial decisions.

When was the last time you assessed your financial situation or checked your credit score? If you’re interested in talking about financial practices that can help you manage your credit, reach out to us and we’ll take a tailored approach to guiding you through personal finance best practices. It can make a significant difference when it comes to interest rates and your monthly loan payments on life’s largest expenses.

Sources:

Iron Empires: Robber Barons, Railroads, and the Making of Modern America by Michael Hiltzik

Railroaded: The Transcontinentals and the Making of Modern America by Richard White

The Economy of Promises: Trust, Power, and Credit in America by Bruce G. Carruthers

The Long, Twisted History of Your Credit Score – https://time.com/3961676/history-credit-scores/

The source(s) used to prepare this material is/are believed to be true, accurate and reliable, but is/are not guaranteed. Credit management involves various factors; improvement is not guaranteed. Consult with a financial professional regarding your specific situation. This information is provided as general information and is not intended to be specific financial guidance. Before you make any decisions regarding your personal financial situation, you should consult a financial or tax professional to discuss your individual circumstances and objectives. SWG 5146272-0126

March is the start of spring, which means the chilly weather is subsiding, the days are getting longer, and you might even begin planning your summer plans. But March is also National Credit Awareness Month. While cleaning out your gutters or planting seeds might be on your to-do list, this month serves as a vital reminder to perform a different kind of maintenance: a deep dive into your financial health.

But what exactly is National Credit Awareness Month, and why does it deserve a spot on your calendar?

What is National Credit Awareness Month?

National Credit Awareness Month is an annual campaign dedicated to educating consumers about the importance of credit and how it impacts their daily lives. In a world where your credit score can influence everything from the apartment you rent to the interest rate on your car loan, understanding how credit can work for or against you is essential.

Throughout March, financial institutions, non-profits, and educators focus on three core pillars:

1. Transparency: Encouraging people to check their credit reports for errors.
2. Education: Teaching the mechanics behind credit scores and debt-to-income ratios.
3. Empowerment: Providing tools to help people improve their credit standing.

Why Does It Exist?

The initiative exists because, for many, the world of credit is shrouded in mystery and anxiety. Many adults navigate their financial lives without ever receiving formal education on how credit works. This lack of knowledge can lead to costly mistakes, such as high-interest debt or missed opportunities for homeownership.

National Credit Awareness Month aims to bridge this gap. It exists to remind us that credit is more than a number—it’s a financial tool, and it represents your financial reputation. Lenders, landlords, insurers, and even some employers may use credit information to assess responsibility and risk. A strong credit profile may lower borrowing costs and might improve access to housing and utilities without hefty deposits.

When managed correctly, credit has the potential to provide a safety net and a ladder to wealth-building. When misunderstood, it can become a significant barrier to progress. The goal of this month is to foster a more financially literate society where individuals feel in control of their economic destiny.

How to Participate

You don’t need to be a financial expert to celebrate. Start with these three simple steps:

• Check Your Report: You are entitled to a free credit report from each of the three major bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). Use this month to ensure there are no inaccuracies or signs of identity theft.
• Audit Your Utilization: Aim to keep your credit card balances below 30% of your total limit. This is one of the fastest ways to see a positive move in your score.
• Set Up Autopay: Payment history is one of the most significant factors in your credit score. Ensure you never miss a due date by automating at least your minimum payments.

What’s Next?

National Credit Awareness Month is the perfect time to take the first step toward a healthier financial future. Whether you are rebuilding after a setback or maintaining a healthy financial balance, awareness is a great asset. Reach out to us today to take a closer look at your finances.

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