Author: tomocredit

  • How to Build Credit at 18 Years Old

    Building credit at 18 years old is one of the most important—and empowering—financial decisions you can make. A strong credit score can open doors for your future: renting an apartment, financing a car, securing better rates on insurance, or even increasing your chances of getting hired for certain jobs. But credit doesn’t build itself; it takes deliberate action, patience, and good habits. The good news? Starting young gives you time to establish a strong credit foundation, and there are plenty of beginner-friendly ways to do it.

    One of the most accessible options for young adults is to open a student credit card. These cards are designed specifically for individuals who are new to credit and typically have lower credit limits and lenient approval requirements. When applying, look for a card with no annual fee, a simple rewards structure (if any), and a provider that reports to all three major credit bureaus: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. Once approved, don’t treat the card as free money. Instead, use it for one or two recurring, budgeted expenses—such as your monthly phone bill, a Spotify or Netflix subscription, or any other regular charge that’s predictable and manageable.

    By charging only small, consistent amounts to your credit card and paying the full balance off on time each month, you build a positive payment history. This payment history is the single most important factor in determining your credit score, so never miss a due date. Consider setting up automatic payments to remove the risk of forgetting. Keeping your balance low also helps your score—aim to use no more than 30% of your credit limit at any given time. For example, if your credit limit is $500, try to keep your balance under $150.

    If you’re not eligible for a student credit card yet, another great option is becoming an authorized user on a family member’s credit card—usually a parent or guardian. This allows you to “piggyback” on their good credit behavior. If the account holder maintains a low balance and pays on time, those positive actions can reflect on your credit report. Just make sure the credit card issuer reports authorized user activity to the credit bureaus (not all do).

    You can also explore secured credit cards. These function similarly to regular credit cards but require a refundable cash deposit as collateral—usually equal to your credit limit. They’re a great starting point if you don’t qualify for a traditional or student credit card, and they still help you build credit if managed properly. Some banks and credit unions also offer credit-builder loans, where you “repay” a small loan amount that’s held in a savings account until you’ve paid it off, giving you both a positive credit history and a savings cushion at the end.

    If you’re a college student, check if your school partners with any financial institutions or fintech companies offering tools tailored to young adults. Educational financial platforms, student banking programs, and peer mentoring groups can be great resources for learning and support.

    And lastly, don’t overlook the value of modern credit-building tools that don’t require traditional credit checks. A standout example is TomoCredit, which helps young adults and new-to-credit individuals build credit without charging fees or interest. Tomo doesn’t require a credit score to apply—instead, it looks at your financial habits, such as income and spending behavior. Once approved, you can use the Tomo card like a regular credit card and build credit by making on-time payments. It’s a simple, modern solution for those who want to avoid debt while still establishing a strong credit profile.

    Building credit is not a one-time event—it’s a lifelong habit. Starting at 18 gives you a huge advantage, especially if you use the tools available to you responsibly. With consistency, discipline, and smart decisions, your credit score can grow into a powerful asset for years to come.

  • What Is a Good Credit Score?

    Understanding what qualifies as a “good” credit score is one of the most important steps in managing your financial health. While it may seem like hitting the elusive 800 mark is the ultimate goal, the truth is far less intimidating—and far more practical. A credit score above 750 is widely considered excellent and typically gives you access to the same benefits and terms as those with scores in the 800s.

    Credit scores typically range from 300 to 850. A score in the 670–739 range is generally viewed as “good,” 740–799 is “very good,” and 800 and above is “excellent.” But here’s the catch: lenders and financial institutions often don’t differentiate much between someone with a 760 and someone with an 820. Once you cross the 750 threshold, you’ve already reached the tier that grants the best interest rates, most attractive mortgage terms, and the highest-tier credit card rewards. There’s no significant advantage to pushing your score from 750 to 800 unless you simply enjoy optimizing for its own sake.

    So what does this mean for someone with a 700 credit score? Simply put: 700 is already pretty good. It shows lenders that you’re responsible, have a solid history of paying your bills on time, and can manage credit wisely. According to a recent U.S. News article on credit scores, TomoCredit CEO Kristy Kim notes that a score of 700 is indeed commendable. But if you’re aiming to qualify for the lowest mortgage rates or most competitive lending products, your best bet is to aim a little higher—ideally above 750.

    Improving from a 700 to a 750 score isn’t about dramatic changes. It’s about refining your credit behavior: making every payment on time, lowering your credit utilization ratio (ideally below 30%, or even 10% for optimal impact), avoiding unnecessary hard inquiries, and letting your accounts age. These actions, compounded over time, steadily push your score upward without requiring perfection.

    Many people fixate on reaching 800 as if it’s a status symbol. But it’s more useful to think of your credit score as a tool, not a trophy. A score of 752 gets you the same mortgage rate as a score of 805. You don’t get a lower interest rate just because your number starts with an “8.” Lenders assess risk, and once you’ve demonstrated that you’re an extremely low-risk borrower (which is what a 750+ score signifies), you’re treated accordingly.

    It’s also important to understand that your score can fluctuate due to factors outside your immediate control—such as changes in credit reporting algorithms or the natural aging of your credit history. That’s why it’s more productive to maintain good habits consistently, rather than chase numerical perfection.

    In summary, yes—700 is a good credit score. It means you’re doing a lot of things right. But if you want to secure the best possible terms for major financial milestones like buying a house, refinancing a loan, or applying for a high-limit credit card, working your way above 750 is a smart and achievable goal. Just don’t let yourself fall into the trap of obsessing over the difference between “very good” and “excellent.” Because when it comes to credit scores, excellent starts at 750—and everything above that is just a cherry on top.

  • How AI Can Help You Improve Your Credit Score

    Artificial intelligence (AI) often sounds intimidating. Many people still associate it with robots, job loss, or a sense of losing control. That fear is understandable—AI is a fast-moving technology and not always easy to trust. But when it comes to personal finance and credit building, AI is quietly becoming one of the most helpful tools available today.

    Your credit score is a critical part of your financial identity. It influences your ability to rent an apartment, get a loan, or even secure a job. But improving that score can be confusing, especially when your credit report is full of jargon and mysterious changes. That’s where AI comes in. Rather than replacing human decision-making, it enhances it—offering real-time insights, broad financial knowledge, and personalized guidance that many people wouldn’t otherwise access.

    For example, AI can scan your credit report in seconds and flag errors that would otherwise go unnoticed. Incorrect balances, accounts that don’t belong to you, or misreported late payments—these mistakes can hurt your score for years. With AI, you get automated detection, instant alerts, and even dispute suggestions that make fixing these problems much easier and faster.

    AI also helps by analyzing your unique financial behavior—not just giving you generic advice. Instead of repeating “pay your bills on time,” smart tools can say things like: “Make a small payment before your statement closes this month to reduce your utilization ratio,” or “Your credit age is low—avoid applying for new cards for now.” It’s a smarter kind of help, based on your own data, not one-size-fits-all tips.

    One of the most powerful uses of AI is its ability to simulate the future. What would happen if you paid off a credit card next month? Or if you missed a payment by mistake? AI-powered score simulators show the potential impact of your actions before you make them. That kind of insight can be a game-changer for people trying to build credit without setbacks.

    And because improving your credit score is a long-term game, AI offers tools to help you stay on track. It can nudge you with payment reminders, notify you when your credit usage spikes, and even monitor for signs of fraud. Some platforms even help you negotiate better terms with your lenders—like increasing your credit limit or lowering your interest rate—both of which can help your score.

    While the idea of AI can still feel overwhelming, the reality is this: it’s a tool. A powerful one. And when used correctly, it opens the door to financial empowerment. With broad knowledge, real-time tracking, and behavior-based guidance, AI is helping more people take control of their credit—not by doing everything for them, but by making the process smarter, faster, and more accessible.

    TomoCredit now offers an AI-powered financial wellness checkup that helps you understand your credit standing, uncover errors, and plan your next move with confidence. Try it out at tomoboost.com.

    So the next time you hear “AI,” don’t think of it as something to fear. Think of it as a coach, an advisor, and a guide—one that just might help you unlock a better credit score and a stronger financial future.

  • What Is a Good Credit Score to Buy a House?

    Buying a home is one of the most exciting financial decisions you’ll ever make — and one of the most complex. Whether it’s your first condo, a dream family home, or an investment property, understanding what makes a strong application is key to success. One of the most critical factors in that equation is your credit score.

    Your credit score is a three-digit number that tells lenders how likely you are to repay borrowed money. It generally ranges from 300 to 850. While you can technically qualify for some mortgages with a score in the 500s, most conventional mortgage lenders require a score of at least 620. However, to access the best rates and terms, you should aim for a score of 740 or higher. The higher your score, the lower the interest rate you’re likely to get — and that can translate into saving tens of thousands of dollars over the life of your loan.

    Let’s say you’re buying a $300,000 home. If your score is above 760, you might qualify for an interest rate around 6.5%, resulting in a monthly payment of about $1,896. But if your score is closer to 620, that rate could jump to 8.1%, raising your payment to over $2,200. Over 30 years, that’s more than $100,000 in additional interest. Improving your score before applying can have a huge payoff. That’s why it’s important to start building good credit early — and if you need a boost, tools like TomoBoost can help by reporting recurring payments you’re already making, like rent or streaming subscriptions, to credit bureaus.

    Beyond credit scores, timing can also play a major role in the homebuying process. The real estate market tends to move in seasonal cycles. Spring is usually the most active season, with more homes available and more buyers competing. That means more choice, but also higher prices and pressure. Summer stays competitive, especially for families trying to move before the school year begins. Fall, on the other hand, often provides a balance — fewer buyers, slightly more motivated sellers, and prices that begin to cool down. Winter is the slowest season, and while inventory is lower, it may be the best time to find deals or negotiate favorable terms. If your schedule is flexible, early fall through mid-winter can often be the sweet spot.

    It’s also essential to understand what kind of home you’re buying — and how that affects your mortgage. A primary residence is a home you intend to live in most of the year. Lenders typically offer more favorable terms for primary residences, including lower down payments, better rates, and access to government-backed loan programs like FHA or VA loans. Investment properties, on the other hand, are purchased to generate rental income or resale profit. Because these loans carry more risk for lenders, they come with stricter credit requirements, higher interest rates, and larger down payment demands — often 15% to 25%.

    While both types of purchases can be great financial moves, they require different strategies, qualifications, and levels of financial preparation. That’s why building strong credit habits is one of the smartest things you can do early on — not just to qualify for a mortgage, but to access better terms and more long-term wealth potential.

    At TomoCredit, we believe homeownership should be within reach for more people, especially those who are traditionally underserved by the credit system. If you’re building or rebuilding your credit and planning ahead for a future home purchase, TomoBoost is here to help accelerate your journey. The earlier you start preparing your credit profile, the more confident and empowered you’ll feel when it’s time to make that offer.

    Buying a home is about more than qualifying for a loan — it’s about understanding your timing, your financial goals, and the unique opportunity each property type presents. And it all starts with knowing your score, taking action, and thinking long term.

  • Can Medical Debt Affect Your Credit Score?

    For decades, medical debt has cast a long shadow over the financial lives of everyday Americans. A single unexpected health emergency—an ER visit, a surgery, or even a routine test misfiled by insurance—could quickly spiral into thousands of dollars in debt. And if that debt made its way onto your credit report, the consequences were lasting: lower credit scores, higher interest rates, denied mortgage or rental applications, and even missed job opportunities.

    This long-standing burden has finally reached a turning point.

    In 2025, a groundbreaking rule finalized by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) will remove all medical debt—both paid and unpaid—from consumer credit reports. This means that medical bills will no longer be used by lenders when evaluating your creditworthiness. The reform is expected to clear around $49 billion in medical debt from Americans’ credit histories, lifting a massive weight off the shoulders of millions.

    This decision wasn’t made lightly. Years of research, public pressure, and advocacy from consumer protection groups pointed to one painful truth: medical debt was not a reliable indicator of someone’s financial responsibility. Unlike a shopping spree on a credit card, medical debt is rarely voluntary. It doesn’t reflect poor budgeting or reckless spending. In most cases, it’s the result of necessary care, unexpected illness, or opaque billing systems that confuse even the savviest consumer.

    The good news is that these changes are already underway.

    Even before the 2025 rule takes full effect, the three major credit bureaus—Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion—began phasing out medical debt reporting. As of 2023, paid medical collections have already been removed from credit reports. Additionally, unpaid medical bills with an original balance under $500 have also been eliminated. This means that if you’ve recently paid off medical debt or if your unresolved bills fall under that threshold, your credit report should already reflect those removals.

    But what if you notice a medical collection that still shouldn’t be there—or worse, a charge that doesn’t even belong to you?

    Medical debt is notoriously error-prone. From clerical mishandling to billing disputes between providers and insurers, it’s not uncommon for incorrect debt to be reported to credit bureaus. If you suspect something’s off, you’re not powerless. You have the legal right to dispute inaccurate credit information, and doing so can protect your credit score and financial future.

    To make this easier, TomoBoost offers a dispute service that’s fast, transparent, and easy to use. With TomoBoost, you can challenge questionable items on your credit report—including medical debt—with instant results. Instead of waiting weeks for updates or navigating confusing paperwork, TomoBoost streamlines the entire process. It’s credit relief in real time.

    This matters more than you might think. Your credit report isn’t just a number—it’s your financial passport. It affects everything from loan approvals and apartment leases to job applications and insurance premiums. The removal of medical debt doesn’t just lighten the load; it gives millions of Americans a chance to reclaim their financial narrative.

    We’re entering a new era of credit reporting—one where medical hardship doesn’t define your future. With the CFPB’s new regulation and support tools like TomoBoost, you now have the power to clean up your credit, dispute inaccurate information, and step confidently into a healthier financial life.

    Medical bills should be a healthcare issue—not a credit score issue. And starting now, they finally are.

  • How to Use AI to Repair Your Credit

    Your credit score is more than just a number. It’s your financial reputation—a reflection of how well you manage money, debt, and responsibilities. Like a crystal ball, it’s delicate: easy to damage and much harder to repair. But in a world where AI is revolutionizing everything from healthcare to personal assistants, it’s also changing the way we manage credit. Whether you’re trying to fix past mistakes, understand your credit report, or avoid future missteps, artificial intelligence can now help you regain control of your financial future with more precision and less stress.

    Credit repair used to mean digging through complicated reports line by line, calling credit bureaus, mailing dispute letters, and spending hours researching how your score is calculated. Today, AI tools can do much of this heavy lifting for you—analyzing your data, identifying problems, and even helping you act on them. These systems are trained to comb through large volumes of financial information, spot patterns, and flag potential issues that might otherwise go unnoticed. That includes duplicate accounts, inaccurate balances, accounts reported under the wrong name, or even signs of identity theft.

    In fact, some AI platforms are designed specifically to detect and manage credit report errors. With just a few clicks, they can scan your full credit history and highlight the exact accounts or data points that look suspicious. Rather than spending hours trying to figure out what’s hurting your score, AI presents the findings in a clear, actionable way. And many of these tools will go a step further by auto-generating dispute letters, pre-filled with the correct legal language, and track the dispute process with the credit bureaus until it’s resolved. What used to take weeks can now take minutes. TomoBoost, an AI-powered personal financial wellness platform, is one such tool that can diagnose credit issues, highlight areas of risk, and offer intelligent suggestions tailored to your financial behavior.

    But repairing credit isn’t just about removing inaccurate information. It’s also about managing your financial behavior going forward—especially how you spend, save, and pay off debt. This is where AI-powered budgeting and finance apps come into play. These tools use machine learning to track your income, spending habits, and bills. Over time, they build a personalized profile of your financial lifestyle and offer suggestions to improve it. That might look like noticing you’re spending 20% more than usual on dining out, reminding you of an upcoming bill that could cause an overdraft, or recommending ways to shift funds toward debt repayment more effectively.

    Perhaps even more powerful is AI’s ability to forecast your future financial picture. Based on your spending and payment trends, it can predict how much you’ll likely spend next month or next quarter. That means you can see what’s coming—whether it’s quarterly taxes, holiday spending, or seasonal income changes—and plan ahead. AI can simulate different financial scenarios: What happens to your score if you pay off a $2,000 credit card this month versus next month? What if you shift your payment date closer to your paycheck? These predictive insights give you an edge in managing your finances proactively, not just reactively.

    Another key benefit of AI is its ability to automate good habits. One of the biggest credit score killers is simply forgetting to pay a bill on time. AI tools can set up smart reminders, automate payments when your balance is low, and even suggest the best time of month to pay based on your spending patterns. They can recommend paying twice a month instead of once to keep your credit utilization low, or alert you if your debt-to-income ratio is creeping up. These subtle nudges can make a big difference in your overall credit health.

    AI also helps by removing the emotional weight of credit repair. It’s easy to feel shame, fear, or confusion when dealing with credit issues. But AI doesn’t judge—it simply processes your data and provides clear, personalized guidance. The shift is empowering. You’re no longer reacting in crisis mode; you’re making informed decisions, guided by real-time data and intelligent suggestions. It’s like having a financial coach who’s always available, completely unbiased, and laser-focused on helping you rebuild.

    Credit repair is never instant. It requires consistency, strategy, and a clear view of your financial landscape. That’s where AI excels—giving you tools that work smarter, not harder. From catching credit report mistakes, to streamlining your budget, to projecting future spending, AI helps you build a stable, healthier financial foundation over time.

    So if your financial reputation has taken a hit—or you’re just trying to be more proactive—consider tapping into AI as your secret weapon. Your credit may be fragile like a crystal ball, but with the right tech in your hands, you can protect it, repair it, and even future-proof it.

  • Does a Bad Credit Score Affect Renting?

    Looking for a new place to live can be exciting—but it can also be surprisingly stressful, especially when you’re navigating paperwork, income verification, and credit checks. While most people focus on how much rent they can afford or which neighborhood they want to live in, one key factor can quietly derail the entire process: your credit score.

    Yes, your credit score plays a major role in your ability to rent a home. It’s not just about loans or credit cards—your score can impact your chances of securing a lease, the type of property you qualify for, and even the terms of your rental agreement. A bad credit score can create roadblocks before you even walk through the door for a viewing.

    Landlords and property management companies use credit scores as a quick, standardized way to assess risk. In essence, your credit score is a reflection of how reliably you’ve managed money in the past. It signals whether you’ve paid your bills on time, kept debts under control, and maintained healthy financial habits. A high credit score reassures landlords that you’re a responsible tenant. A low score, on the other hand, can raise doubts—sometimes enough to lead to a rejected application.

    So what’s considered a “good” credit score when you’re applying for a lease? While different landlords may have slightly different benchmarks, most follow a general guideline. Credit scores range from 300 to 850. A great credit score typically falls between 720 and 850. This range gives you the strongest chance of approval and may even give you an edge in competitive rental markets. Scores in the 680–719 range are still considered acceptable in many cases, but the higher your score, the more confident a landlord will feel offering you the lease.

    Now here’s the hard truth: without good credit, certain property owners might not even offer you the lease—no matter how impressive your job title is or how large your savings account may be. In cities with limited housing supply or in buildings managed by large corporations, a low credit score might automatically disqualify you. Even smaller landlords may hesitate to take a chance on a tenant whose financial history raises red flags.

    But the impact doesn’t stop there. If a landlord is willing to consider you despite a lower score, you might still face additional hurdles. You may be asked to pay a larger security deposit, commit to a shorter lease term, or bring in a co-signer with stronger credit. In extreme cases, you might find yourself limited to properties in less desirable areas, with fewer amenities, and less flexible lease terms.

    This is why building and maintaining great credit is so important. It’s not just about buying a house or getting a loan in the future. It’s about your quality of life right now—having the freedom to choose where you live, negotiate better lease terms, and avoid extra costs or stress. A strong credit score opens doors. A weak one can shut them quickly.

    Fortunately, your credit score is not set in stone. You have the power to improve it over time. Start by paying all your bills on time, especially credit cards and loans. Keep your credit utilization low—aim to use less than 30% of your total available credit. Avoid unnecessary hard inquiries, such as applying for multiple loans or cards at once. And check your credit report regularly to catch errors or fraud that could be dragging your score down.

    Improving your credit may take some time, but the benefits will follow you for years to come. Whether you’re renting your first apartment or upgrading to your dream home, your credit score will be one of the first things landlords look at. The stronger it is, the smoother your journey will be.

    At the end of the day, a great credit score isn’t just a number—it’s a key to opportunity, stability, and freedom. Don’t let a poor score hold you back from the home you deserve.

    If you’re ready to take action, TomoBoost is a simple, fast way to strengthen your credit score—without interest, fees, or a hard credit check. Get started today and open more doors tomorrow.

  • Do Student Loans Affect Your Credit Score?

    Yes — student loans do affect your credit score. But the story doesn’t end there. Whether they help or hurt your score really comes down to how you manage them.

    When you borrow for school, that loan becomes part of your credit history. Credit bureaus track the amount you owe, your payment schedule, and how reliably you’re paying it back. So yes, if you miss payments or default, it can drag your credit score down significantly. But the flip side is powerful — if you’re consistently paying on time, that same student loan can become a positive force in your credit life.

    In fact, for many people, student loans are the first real credit accounts they ever have. That means they can play a huge role in establishing your credit footprint. Making regular payments, even small ones, builds a pattern of reliability. Over time, this strengthens your score, boosts your borrowing potential, and opens doors — whether you’re applying for a credit card, car loan, apartment lease, or even a job that checks credit history.

    Still, let’s be real: this isn’t easy. Most people repaying student loans are doing it at a tough stage of life — early career, lower income, and tons of competing financial demands. Rent is high. Groceries cost more than expected. Emergency expenses happen. Sometimes, you’re just trying to make it through the month. Living on a budget becomes your default mode — not because you want to, but because you have to.

    And when every dollar counts, it can feel impossible to prioritize your credit. But here’s the truth: you don’t have to be perfect to make progress. You just need a system that works with your lifestyle — something flexible, simple, and supportive.

    That’s where financial tools like TomoBoost come in. Designed with budget-conscious people in mind, TomoBoost helps you take control without the overwhelm. It gives you a clear view of where your money’s going, helps you set payment goals, and even nudges you when you’re getting off track. Instead of feeling like you’re drowning in bills, you start to feel in charge again. It’s not just a budgeting app — it’s a money mindset shift.

    So yes, student loans impact your credit. But they don’t define it. If you’re paying back your loans steadily — even if it’s hard — you’re building credit strength that will pay off down the road. Your efforts matter. And with tools like TomoBoost in your corner, you don’t have to navigate that journey alone.

    You’re doing more than paying off debt — you’re investing in your future, one smart move at a time.

  • How to Build Business Credit Fast with AI

    In today’s competitive business world, building strong credit is key to unlocking better financing options, vendor terms, and long-term growth. But traditional credit-building methods can be slow and often inaccessible—especially for new or underserved entrepreneurs. Fortunately, artificial intelligence is transforming the way we build and manage credit, offering faster, smarter, and more personalized paths to financial credibility.

    Business credit plays a vital role in separating your personal finances from your company’s operations. With strong business credit, you can qualify for higher credit limits, secure lower interest rates, and build trust with potential partners and lenders. But establishing a business credit profile from scratch isn’t always straightforward. It typically requires months of consistent financial activity, credit account reporting, and deep familiarity with how bureaus evaluate your business.

    This is where AI can dramatically change the game. By analyzing patterns in your financial behavior, AI can offer real-time insights and automated tools to help you build credit faster. These systems not only monitor your credit usage but also guide you on what actions to take—whether it’s optimizing your payment schedule, reporting to the right bureaus, or reducing utilization. AI eliminates the guesswork and helps you stay ahead of what lenders look for.

    That’s exactly what TomoBoost is designed to do. TomoBoost is a personal finance wellness platform that’s built to set you up for long-term credit success. It focuses first on improving your personal credit—often a key consideration when your business is still new—and then supports you on your journey toward business expansion. Through AI-driven recommendations and a commitment to financial inclusion, TomoBoost empowers users to strengthen their financial foundation with confidence.

    TomoBoost is not just about scoring points; it’s about building a lifestyle of financial wellness. Whether you’re looking to qualify for your first business credit card, apply for a small business loan, or simply build financial credibility, TomoBoost guides you every step of the way. And because it doesn’t rely on traditional credit checks, it’s especially impactful for those with limited or no credit history.

    To build business credit fast, start by separating your personal and business finances with a dedicated business bank account and EIN. Strengthen your personal credit through platforms like TomoBoost. Apply for credit accounts that report to commercial credit bureaus, and let AI help you automate, monitor, and optimize your performance. With the right strategy—and the right tools—you can build business credit in record time.In a world where financial systems are rapidly evolving, embracing AI isn’t just smart—it’s essential. With TomoBoost, you’re not just building credit. You’re building a future.

  • TomoCredit Welcomes Steve Smith, Former CEO and Co-Founder of Finicity, to Expand AI Financial Wellness Platform

    Smith brings decades of leadership in financial technology and open banking. As CEO of Finicity, a Mastercard company, he has been instrumental in expanding access to consumer-permissioned financial data across the credit ecosystem. His experience in scaling data-driven platforms and shaping fintech regulation will bring strategic depth to TomoCredit as it accelerates its growth and product innovation.

    “We are thrilled to welcome Steve to our board,” said Kristy Kim, CEO and Founder of TomoCredit. “His expertise in financial infrastructure and data accessibility perfectly aligns with our mission to make credit more inclusive. As we scale, Steve’s vision and track record will be invaluable in guiding TomoCredit to serve millions more who are overlooked by traditional credit models.”

    Steve Smith’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for TomoCredit, as the company strengthens its position as a leading personal financial wellness platform. TomoCredit is committed to helping individuals take control of their financial futures by leveraging personal finance data to deliver smarter, more inclusive tools for credit building and money management. By focusing on the financial behaviors that truly reflect a person’s responsibility, like income patterns, spending habits, and payment consistency, TomoCredit empowers thin-file and no-file users to build healthy financial lives, independent of traditional credit systems.

    TomoCredit is at the forefront of solving one of the most urgent financial challenges of our time—credit access,” said Steve Smith. “I’m excited to join this passionate and innovative team. Together, we’ll help redefine what credit inclusion looks like in the modern economy.”

    Smith joins a board that includes fintech, banking, and consumer advocacy leaders, reinforcing TomoCredit’s commitment to building a diverse and high-impact governance team.

    TomoCredit’s mission to enhance credit accessibility is particularly crucial in a landscape where over 100 million Americans have little to no credit history. Traditional credit scoring models often exclude these individuals, making it difficult for them to secure loans. By focusing on real-time cash flow data and innovative underwriting practices, TomoCredit is paving the way for a more inclusive financial future.