 TITLE: Why You Should Build Good Credit Even if You Aren’t Planning a Major Purchase CONTENT: Your Credit Score Can Affect You in Surprising Ways\n---------------------------------------------------\nYour credit score influences more than just your chances of qualifying (and the terms you'll be offered) for a loan. Here are some other ways it can affect your everyday life:\n*   **Finding an apartment**: Landlords can't check your credit score, but they can check your credit report (with your written permission). If you've missed a payment or had an account go to collections, it may be tough to get an apartment. A \"thin\" credit file also won't help you as it gives a landlord little to go on.\n*   **Getting a job**: Like landlords, employers can't see your credit score, but they can check your credit report. Not every job does it, but some employers will use your credit report to judge your responsibility and trustworthiness—especially if the job involves handling finances or sensitive data. If you have bad credit or no credit, it could ruin your chances of getting hired for certain jobs.\n*   **Saving on car or homeowners insurance**: In most states, auto and homeowners insurers can use a credit score-based insurance score to help determine your rates. If your credit is in great shape, it could save you money.\n*   **Getting started with utilities**: While your utility bill isn't typically a debt payment, utility companies often run a credit check to see how likely you are to pay on time. If your credit is less than stellar, you might be required to pay a deposit, which you may not get back until you move again.\nBy building a positive credit history and score, you may have a better chance of getting the job or apartment you want and saving money on insurance and utilities. END