Your credit utilization ratio is one of those things you probably don't spend much time thinking about. Heck, you may not even know what a credit utilization ratio is. In that case, here's a primer.

Investopedia contributors come from a range of backgrounds, and over 25 years there have been thousands of expert writers and editors who have contributed. Thomas J. Brock is a CFA and CPA with more ...

Discover what a utilization fee is and how it applies when lenders charge it to borrowers who exceed certain credit limits on lines or loans.

Using no more than 30% of your credit limits is a guideline — and using less is better for your score. Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising partners who ...

Keeping this ratio low can give a big boost to your credit score Written By Written by Contributor, Buy Side Michelle Lambright Black is a contributor to Buy Side and credit expert specializing in ...

Your credit score plays a big role in your financial life. It affects everything: getting approved for loans, opening new credit cards and in some places, it can even impact your car insurance rates.

A low credit utilization ratio indicates that you are not overly dependent on credit and are more likely to be a responsible borrower. Basically, lenders use your credit score to determine your risk ...

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