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If building or rebuilding your credit is one of your goals this year, here’s a simple habit that can make a big difference: check your credit report every month. It’s easy, free, and can help you spot errors that may be quietly hurting your credit score.Your credit report is like your financial report card. Lenders, landlords, and even some employers review it to decide if you’re a responsible borrower. The issue? Credit reports aren’t always accurate. In fact, studies show that about one in five Americans has at least one error on their report. These mistakes could be as small as a wrong address or as serious as a late payment that never happened—or an account that doesn’t even belong to you.Even a single error can have a negative impact on your credit score, which means you could be paying higher interest rates or even getting denied for credit you should qualify for. That’s why checking your report monthly is so important. If you find an error, you have the right to take action by filing a credit dispute. This process is free and straightforward: you contact the credit bureau (like Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion), explain what’s wrong, and provide any documents that support your claim. The bureau is legally required to investigate, usually within 30 days.Correcting an error—like removing a false late payment or deleting an account that doesn’t belong to you—can significantly boost your credit score. Some people see jumps of 20, 30, even 50 points, depending on the issue. While credit disputes aren’t a magic fix for poor credit, they are a legitimate and often overlooked strategy for improving your financial profile.TomoCredit now offers fast and easy support for credit disputes—giving users a head start on identifying and fixing errors that could be holding them back. With TomoCredit, you can get a faster resolution process, meaning you might see improvements to your credit score sooner than if you filed on your own. It’s a smart, proactive way to take control of your financial future—especially if you’re working toward better credit in the near term.Think of it like spring cleaning for your credit. Even if you don’t find any problems, reviewing your report regularly helps you stay on top of your credit usage and protects you from fraud or identity theft. It’s one of the easiest ways to be proactive with your financial health.You can pull your credit report for free at TomoCredit.com. Make it a habit—set a calendar reminder, review your report like you would your bank statement, and if you see something that doesn’t look right, take action. And if you want help navigating that process, TomoCredit is here to support you—so you can correct errors quickly and get the credit score boost you deserve.

Opposites attract—especially when it comes to money. And when one partner has a strong credit score while the other is just starting to build credit, the imbalance can add unexpected stress to the relationship. A big gap in credit scores doesn’t just affect borrowing power—it can impact everything from renting an apartment to securing a car loan or qualifying for the best credit card offers. But the good news is that credit isn’t set in stone, and there are ways to boost credit together as a couple.

Take Carrie and Ryan, a married couple who found themselves on opposite ends of the credit spectrum. Carrie had a solid score above 700, while Ryan had no credit history at all. Without a credit score, Ryan faced challenges renting an apartment or being approved for credit on his own. As a result, Carrie had to take on more financial responsibility, including applying for their apartment lease under her name alone. While she was comfortable managing their finances, the added pressure was something they hadn’t fully anticipated before tying the knot.

To tackle this challenge together, Carrie helped Ryan build credit by adding him as an authorized user on her credit card. This simple step allowed Ryan to start establishing his credit history based on Carrie’s responsible usage. However, not all credit card issuers report authorized users to credit bureaus, so it’s crucial to check beforehand. If they do, this strategy can be a great way to boost credit without taking on additional debt or opening a brand-new credit account.

Beyond being an authorized user, there are other ways couples can work toward strengthening their credit profiles together. Opening a secured credit card, for example, allows a partner with little to no credit history to start building a positive record. Making on-time payments and keeping credit utilization low are essential habits that will gradually boost credit scores. Additionally, paying down any existing debts and avoiding late payments can significantly improve a partner’s creditworthiness over time.

Patience is key when working on credit improvement. A credit score isn’t built overnight—factors like payment history, credit age, and overall debt utilization take time to influence scores positively. Even if there isn’t an immediate jump, consistency with good financial habits will yield results in the long run. It’s also important to remember that past credit mistakes don’t define a person’s financial future. Negative marks, such as late payments or high balances, gradually have less impact over time.

For couples navigating different credit situations, communication and shared financial goals are just as important as the practical steps toward improvement. Working together to boost credit doesn’t just improve financial opportunities—it strengthens trust and long-term planning as a team.If you and your partner are looking for ways to build or improve your credit, check out TomoCredit on KNOT—because financial wellness should always be a team effort.

TomoCredit, the AI-powered financial wellness platform dedicated to helping immigrants and other underserved communities access essential credit without relying on traditional credit scores, has announced that Joseph Lindsay, former CTO of Experian Open Banking, is joining the company as its new Chief Technology Officer (CTO). His extensive background in fintech and data-driven financial services positions him as a key leader in driving TomoCredit’s mission to reshape the way credit is assessed and granted.

As TomoCredit’s new CTO, Joe Lindsay will lead the development of TomoCredit’s AI Marketplace, a transformative initiative aimed at making financial inclusion a reality for millions of consumers who have historically been left out of the traditional credit system. By leveraging cutting-edge AI technology and Open Banking data, this marketplace will provide a more accurate and fair way to assess creditworthiness, ensuring that individuals can build credit based on their real financial behaviors rather than outdated FICO scores. This data-driven approach is set to benefit both consumers and lenders, enabling a more transparent and efficient credit ecosystem.

Unlike traditional credit assessment models that often fail to capture the true financial stability of individuals with non-traditional credit histories, TomoCredit’s AI-powered platform provides a modern, dynamic alternative. The reliance on FICO scores has long excluded groups such as immigrants, young professionals, freelancers, and those with limited credit history, despite their ability to manage financial obligations responsibly. By removing the “data middleman,” TomoCredit is ensuring that consumers themselves—not third-party credit bureaus—benefit from their financial data. This allows lenders to connect with creditworthy borrowers who might otherwise be overlooked, helping to close the financial inclusion gap in a meaningful way.

In today’s evolving financial landscape, leveraging objective data has never been more critical. The outdated FICO model was built for a different era—one where financial behavior was largely limited to traditional banking products. However, with the rise of digital banking, alternative income sources, and gig economy work, many individuals now operate outside of the traditional financial framework. Yet, despite their financial stability, these individuals are often penalized under the current credit assessment system. TomoCredit’s AI Marketplace provides a much-needed solution to this outdated approach, allowing all consumers—regardless of their background—to participate fully in the U.S. economy.

With Joseph Lindsay leading TomoCredit’s technology strategy, the company is doubling down on its mission to redefine credit access and create a more inclusive financial system. His expertise in Open Banking, AI, and fintech innovation will play a crucial role in expanding TomoCredit’s impact, ensuring that financial institutions can better serve creditworthy individuals who have traditionally been overlooked. As TomoCredit continues to grow, its AI-driven solutions will help bridge the gap between consumers and lenders, ensuring that creditworthiness is determined by real financial behavior—not outdated scoring models.

Understanding how credit inquiries work is essential for anyone looking to apply for credit, whether for a new credit card, a loan, or a mortgage. One of the most overlooked aspects of the credit approval process is the difference between a hard pull and a soft pull. While both involve a review of your credit history, they have different implications for your credit score and financial health.

A hard pull, also known as a hard inquiry, occurs when a lender or financial institution checks your credit report as part of the decision-making process for approving a new credit account. This type of inquiry typically happens when applying for a mortgage, auto loan, personal loan, or traditional credit card. Hard pulls are recorded on your credit report and can slightly lower your credit score. While a single hard inquiry usually has a minimal impact, multiple hard inquiries within a short period can raise red flags for lenders and temporarily lower your score. This is especially important to keep in mind if you are planning to make a significant financial move, such as buying a house or financing a car, where maintaining a strong credit score is crucial.

On the other hand, a soft pull, or soft inquiry, occurs when someone checks your credit without it affecting your score. This could be when you check your own credit report, when a lender pre-qualifies you for an offer, or when an employer conducts a background check. Soft pulls are not visible to other lenders, and they do not impact your credit standing. They are often used for informational purposes rather than as part of a lending decision.

For those who are actively working to improve or establish their credit, avoiding unnecessary hard pulls is an important strategy. A hard inquiry stays on your credit report for about two years, although its impact lessens over time. Limiting hard inquiries by only applying for credit when necessary can help protect your score. However, checking your credit score regularly using a service that conducts soft pulls is a good practice, as it helps you stay informed about your financial status without any negative consequences.

At TomoCredit, we believe in a customer-first approach to credit evaluation. Unlike traditional lenders who often conduct hard pulls during the application process, Tomo only performs soft pulls when assessing applicants for the TomoCredit Card. This means that applying for Tomo will not affect your credit score. We use a customer consent format, which ensures that applicants remain in control of their financial decisions without the risk of unnecessary hard inquiries. Instead of relying solely on credit history, we assess eligibility based on financial behavior, allowing those with limited or no credit history to access a credit-building opportunity without barriers.

For many people, especially those new to credit or rebuilding their financial profile, the difference between a hard and soft pull can determine how they approach new credit opportunities. By understanding these distinctions, individuals can make more informed decisions about when and how to apply for financial products. Tomo’s process ensures that applicants can explore their options without worrying about the impact on their credit score. This approach is particularly beneficial for young professionals, recent immigrants, and those who are credit invisible, as it removes one of the biggest obstacles to accessing financial opportunities.

In a world where creditworthiness plays a crucial role in financial success, being mindful of how credit inquiries affect your score is essential. Whether you are applying for a new credit card, financing a major purchase, or simply checking your credit health, knowing the difference between a hard and soft pull allows you to take control of your financial future. With Tomo’s commitment to using only soft pulls, applicants can confidently take the next step in building their credit without unnecessary setbacks.

In today’s economy, financial freedom isn’t just about earning more—it’s about making your money work for you. While investing in stocks, real estate, and retirement accounts is crucial, one often overlooked tool is a high-yield savings account (HYSA). It’s a powerful way to build wealth, maintain financial stability, and reach long-term goals without unnecessary risk.

A high-yield savings account functions like a traditional savings account but offers significantly higher interest rates—often 10-20 times the national average. While a standard savings account may offer 0.01% APY, a high-yield option can provide 4% or more (as of 2024).

Most people think savings accounts are just for emergency funds. But when used strategically, an HYSA can be an integral part of long-term financial security by:

Protecting Your Money – Unlike volatile investments, your balance in an HYSA is FDIC-insured up to $250,000.

Earning Risk-Free Interest – While investing carries risks, high-yield savings accounts grow your wealth safely.

Providing Liquidity for Future Investments – Your funds are easily accessible, allowing you to seize investment opportunities without selling assets at a loss.

Serving as a Stability Buffer – Having a well-funded HYSA can keep you from dipping into retirement savings or taking on high-interest debt.

Instead of using an HYSA as a general “rainy day fund,” optimize it for specific financial milestones:

• Emergency fund (3-6 months of expenses)
• House down payment
• Business startup fund
• Future investment capital

By having clear goals, you’re more likely to stay disciplined and keep growing your money.

The best way to build wealth is to remove willpower from the equation. Set up automatic transfers from your paycheck or checking account so that saving becomes effortless. Even small, consistent deposits add up over time.

The earlier you start saving, the more your money compounds. For example, a $10,000 deposit at 4.5% APY will grow to:

• $12,209 in 5 years
• $18,815 in 15 years
• $29,273 in 25 years

This growth happens without market risk or extra effort—just by letting time do its work.

Not all high-yield savings accounts are created equal. Rates fluctuate, so it’s important to shop around for the best offers from online banks and credit unions. Some key factors to compare:

APY (Annual Percentage Yield)
No or low fees
Withdrawal limits and flexibility
Minimum balance requirements

While an HYSA is a great tool, it shouldn’t be your only wealth-building strategy. Use it as a stability anchor while still investing in stocks, bonds, or retirement funds.

For example:

• Keep your emergency fund in an HYSA for quick access.
• Use extra cash to invest in index funds or real estate.
• Allocate high-risk investments in stocks, while keeping safe cash reserves in your HYSA.

A high-yield savings account may not be as flashy as stocks or crypto, but it plays a critical role in building financial stability. By optimizing an HYSA, you can grow your money risk-free, avoid unnecessary debt, and set yourself up for long-term wealth.

TomoCredit makes saving simple—earn more on your savings, stay in control of your finances, and take charge of your financial future.

Life is unpredictable. Emergencies, unexpected expenses, and financial shortfalls can arise when you least expect them. Whether it’s a medical bill, credit card bill, a car repair, or just making ends meet before your next paycheck, having access to quick cash can be a lifesaver. Without a safety net, these financial challenges can create unnecessary stress and disrupt daily life. This is where cash advances and early wage access come in as practical solutions.

A cash advance is a short-term loan typically provided by a credit card issuer, allowing individuals to borrow against their credit limit. This option is convenient for those who already have a credit card but need extra funds in the moment. Early wage access, on the other hand, enables employees to access a portion of their earned but unpaid wages before payday. This helps individuals bridge the gap between paychecks without relying on high-interest loans or accumulating debt. Both options provide immediate financial relief when cash flow is tight, ensuring that essential expenses can be met.

One of the biggest advantages is quick access to funds. Unlike traditional loans, which can involve lengthy approval processes and credit checks, cash advances and early wage access can provide money within minutes. This makes them ideal for urgent needs like unexpected medical expenses, urgent home repairs, or covering basic living costs. They also help avoid late fees, penalties, and damage to credit scores by ensuring bills are paid on time. Many earned wage access services do not require a credit check, making them accessible for those with limited credit history or those working to rebuild their financial standing. They also offer flexible repayment options, making them a more manageable alternative compared to high-interest payday loans.

Additionally, early wage access can improve financial wellness by allowing workers to better align their income with expenses, reducing the need for borrowing from costly alternatives. This proactive approach to financial management helps individuals avoid the cycle of debt and promotes better spending habits. Employers that offer early wage access programs can also benefit by fostering employee satisfaction and productivity, as financial stress is a leading cause of workplace distraction and absenteeism. When employees feel more secure financially, they can focus on their work and perform better in their roles.

TomoCredit recently also launched an Early Wage Access feature to help people during those rainy days, providing another option for individuals seeking financial flexibility. By offering this service, TomoCredit aims to support consumers in managing their finances more efficiently and avoiding unnecessary financial hardship.

While useful, these services should be used responsibly. Cash advances often come with high interest rates, and early wage access means having less money on payday. Over-reliance on these options can lead to a cycle of dependency, making it crucial to budget carefully and use these tools strategically. They should serve as a financial bridge rather than a long-term solution. By understanding the costs, making informed financial decisions, and planning accordingly, you can make the most of these financial tools and stay prepared for any rainy day.

AI tools continuously analyze your spending patterns to detect unusual activities. Services like machine learning-based fraud alerts can instantly flag suspicious transactions, enabling you to take swift action before significant damage occurs. Many banks and credit card companies now use AI algorithms to monitor real-time transactions, detecting and blocking fraudulent charges proactively. Choosing financial institutions that implement these advanced fraud detection systems is a critical step toward securing your accounts. 

TomoCredit harnesses AI to provide credit access to individuals without traditional credit scores. By analyzing alternative data—such as income, spending behaviors, and banking activities—Tomo offers a credit solution that helps users build their credit responsibly. This innovative approach removes barriers to credit access, empowering users to participate in the financial system and work toward financial independence. With Tomo, users can build credit while maintaining financial discipline, supported by intelligent spending limits and real-time account monitoring. With the power of AI, Tomo enables everyone to participate in the American economy.

Apps like Mint and YNAB (You Need A Budget) use AI to analyze your income, recurring expenses, and spending habits, helping to create a dynamic and realistic budget. AI categorizes your expenses with precision, providing actionable insights into spending trends. This can help you identify wasteful spending, manage debt, and set achievable savings goals. Personalized alerts for overspending or upcoming bills can keep you accountable and help you avoid costly late fees and penalties. AI-driven budgeting tools also adapt to financial changes, making it easier to stay on track even when your income fluctuates.

Robo-advisors like Betterment and Wealthfront use AI algorithms to create and manage personalized investment portfolios based on your risk tolerance and long-term financial goals. These AI tools automatically adjust asset allocations, rebalance portfolios, and optimize tax strategies—all with minimal fees. This hands-off approach to investing allows beginners and experienced investors alike to grow their wealth efficiently. AI can also forecast market trends and simulate different investment scenarios, providing tailored recommendations for maximizing returns.

By integrating cutting-edge AI tools into your financial routine, you can protect yourself from fraud, streamline budgeting, and make smarter investment decisions—ultimately securing your financial future and opening doors to greater economic participation.

As we embark on a new year, there’s no better time to take control of your financial future. Whether you’re looking to build your savings, pay off debt, or prepare for big life changes, setting both short-term and long-term financial goals is essential. Here’s a guide to help you define, plan, and achieve your financial aspirations in 2025, with tools like TomoCredit to support your journey.

Financial goals act as a roadmap for your money. They give you direction, motivation, and a clear picture of what you’re working toward. Short-term goals help you tackle immediate needs and build momentum, while long-term goals keep you focused on the bigger picture, such as buying a home, retiring comfortably, or funding a child’s education.

Short-Term Financial Goals

Short-term goals typically span a few months to a year and lay the groundwork for financial stability. Here are some examples:

1. Create an Emergency Fund

Life is unpredictable, and an emergency fund can help you cover unexpected expenses like medical bills or car repairs. Aim to save at least 3-6 months’ worth of living expenses. Start small by setting aside a fixed amount each month.

2. Pay Down High-Interest Debt

Eliminating high-interest debt, such as credit card balances, should be a priority. This reduces financial stress and frees up funds for other goals. Use tools like the snowball or avalanche method to structure your debt repayment plan.

3. Build Credit Responsibly

Improving your credit score is a key short-term goal that opens doors to better financial opportunities. TomoCredit, for example, offers a credit card that doesn’t require a credit score or a hard credit check, helping you build credit responsibly while avoiding interest fees.

4. Set a Budget

A realistic budget is the foundation of financial success. Track your income and expenses to identify areas where you can cut back and reallocate funds toward your goals.

Long-Term Financial Goals:

Long-term goals often require years or even decades to achieve but are critical for building lasting wealth and security.

1. Save for Retirement

Start early and take advantage of compound interest to grow your retirement savings. Contribute to your 401(k), IRA, or other retirement accounts consistently and increase your contributions as your income grows.

2. Plan for Major Purchases

Whether it’s buying a home, starting a business, or pursuing higher education, major financial milestones require careful planning. Determine how much you need to save and create a timeline to reach your target.

3. Invest for the Future

Investing allows your money to grow over time. Consider a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, and other assets aligned with your risk tolerance and financial goals. Don’t hesitate to consult with a financial advisor for personalized advice.

4. Achieve Financial Independence

Long-term planning can help you achieve financial independence, where your passive income covers your living expenses. This goal requires disciplined saving, investing, and maintaining a frugal lifestyle.

How to Stay on Track

• Set SMART Goals: Ensure your goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
• Review and Adjust: Regularly review your progress and adjust your plan as needed.
• Use Tools and Resources: Leverage tools like budgeting apps, financial advisors, and products like TomoCredit to stay organized and on track.
• Celebrate Milestones: Acknowledge and celebrate small wins to stay motivated.

This year, take charge of your finances by setting clear, actionable goals. By balancing short-term needs with long-term aspirations and using the right tools, you can create a solid financial foundation for the future. Let 2025 be the year you turn your financial dreams into reality!

Credit card debt has become a persistent challenge for a significant portion of the U.S. population. According to recent statistics, the average American household carries over $8,000 in credit card debt, a financial burden that can quickly spiral out of control. While some individuals face credit card debt due to unavoidable circumstances like medical emergencies or job loss, a large portion of this debt is often tied to a lack of financial literacy and poor spending habits.

Many people underestimate the long-term consequences of credit card debt. One of the most immediate effects is the strain it places on monthly budgets. High-interest rates can cause even small balances to grow rapidly, making it increasingly difficult to pay off the principal amount. Over time, this leads to financial stress, reduced savings, and limited financial flexibility.

A less obvious but equally damaging consequence is the impact on credit scores. Carrying high credit card balances relative to credit limits — a factor known as credit utilization — can significantly lower credit scores. A poor credit score affects one’s ability to secure loans, rent apartments, or even get a job in certain industries. This creates a vicious cycle where financial struggles lead to limited opportunities, perpetuating the debt problem.

One of the main reasons people struggle with credit card debt is a lack of understanding about how credit works. Many consumers are unaware that maxing out credit cards or making only minimum payments can lead to substantial interest charges. Others fail to realize that consistently carrying high balances can harm their credit scores.

Impulse spending, fueled by the ease of swiping a card or shopping online, also plays a significant role. Without a clear budget or spending plan, it’s easy to lose track of expenses until the credit card statement arrives. Additionally, the widespread use of buy-now-pay-later services and promotional financing options can give the illusion of affordability, further contributing to financial mismanagement.

Steps to Tackle Credit Card Debt

1. Educate Yourself on Financial Basics: Understanding how credit scores work and the importance of paying more than the minimum due can go a long way. Free resources and financial literacy programs are widely available online and through community organizations.
2. Create a Realistic Budget: A detailed budget helps you track income and expenses, identify areas to cut back, and allocate funds toward paying down debt.
3. Prioritize Debt Repayment: Consider strategies like the snowball method (paying off smaller balances first) or the avalanche method (focusing on high-interest debt) to reduce overall debt effectively.
4. Use 0% APR Balance Transfer Offers: In the recent CBS News article ”​​How to pay less interest on credit card debt in 2025” TomoCredit CEO, Kristy Kim shared the advice that “taking advantage of credit cards that offer 0% APR on balance transfers can be a short-term solution for managing credit card debt. These offers allow you to transfer high-interest debt to a card with no interest for a promotional period, giving you time to pay down the balance without accruing additional interest. However, be sure to read the terms carefully and plan to pay off the transferred amount before the promotional period ends.
5. Avoid Adding New Debt: While tackling existing balances, resist the temptation to take on new debt. This may involve limiting credit card usage and sticking to cash or debit for everyday expenses.
6. Seek Professional Help if Needed: Credit counseling services can offer guidance on debt management and even negotiate with creditors on your behalf.

It’s important to recognize that credit card debt is a widespread issue, and struggling with it is not a personal failure. Breaking the stigma around financial struggles encourages open conversations, which can lead to shared resources and support. Employers, schools, and community organizations have a role to play in promoting financial literacy and providing tools to help individuals make informed decisions.

TomoCredit’s Founder and CEO Kristy Kim, said “Now more than ever, landing a role at a fast-growing startup can be both exciting and rewarding. Startups thrive on innovation, adaptability, and a mission-driven culture, which means they’re looking for people who can bring energy, creativity, and commitment to the table.”

Here’s TomoCredit’s playbook on how to stand out from the crowd and get hired at a hot startup. 

1. Find a Mission-Aligned Company

Startups often operate on a mission-first mentality, so it’s crucial to find a company whose goals align with your passions. Ask yourself, what problem do I want to solve in the world? Whether it’s fintech, sustainability, or health tech, target startups where you can truly say, “this is a problem I want to dedicate myself to solving.” If you’re already an expert or “guru” in that industry, that’s even better. Leverage your specialized knowledge to showcase how you can immediately contribute to the company’s success. 

Pro Tip: Research the company’s mission and craft a personalized pitch that highlights your alignment and enthusiasm. A thoughtful, mission-driven connection will make you stand out from the crowd. 

2. Demonstrate Ownership, Resilience, and Drive

Startups operate in a high-energy, ever-changing environment, and founders want team members who can roll with the punches and thrive during both highs and lows. During your application and interview process, show that you: 

• Take ownership of your work and outcomes, whether it’s successes or failures
• Are willing to put in hard work to meet ambitious goals
• Have the mental strength to navigate challenges and uncertainty with confidence 

Use concrete examples from your past experience to demonstrate these qualities. For instance, share a time when you overcame a significant challenge or led a project from concept to completion against all odds. 

Pro Tip: Startups are looking for team players with a founder-like mentality. Make it clear that you’ll treat the company’s goals like your own, and you’ll be a candidate that they can’t ignore. 

By aligning with a startup’s mission and showcasing your ownership, resilience, and drive, you’ll position yourself as the ideal hire for a hot startup. Time to craft your pitch and land that dream role!