FICO Scores, Student Loans, and the $500K Cost of Bad Credit

You might have a pristine credit score, but still be drowning in debt. Or maybe you’re a new grad with six figures in student loans and no idea how those monthly payments are going to affect your shot at a mortgage, business loan or even a better credit card. Medical, dental, and veterinary professionals: this one is directly for you.

We explore how student loans impact your FICO score and credit report, plus key actions you can take today to protect your credit and avoid thousands in unnecessary interest.

Key moments:

(02:21) Doctors with poor credit can pay $500k more in lifetime interest

(12:45) Why that free Credit Karma score is not your real FICO

(23:44) How utilization rate affects 165 points of your credit

(28:29) Student loan late payments and the 90-day federal grace period

(40:04) Hard inquiries, 45-day window, and rate shopping the smart way

Resources mentioned:

annualcreditreport.com (free yearly credit reports)myFICO.com (official FICO score pulls)

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