Credit Education

Key takeaways about debt and credit:

• Understanding debt and credit can transform the way you think about your finances and open doors to opportunities.
• One of the primary ways investors use debt is through leverage (occasionally borrowing money to increase the potential return on investment).
• Smart investors also use low-interest loans to fund their investments. When the interest rate on borrowed money is lower than the return on the investment, the investor can pocket the difference.
• Whether they’re investors or not, smart people prioritize building and maintaining good credit to ensure they can enjoy the most advantageous terms possible when they need to borrow money.

When people hear the word “debt,” it often conjures images of financial distress, late payments, collections, and disastrous credit reports. The same goes for “borrowers.”

However, for “investors” – a word that has a much more positive connotation – debt is less of a burden. It’s more of a powerful tool that, when used wisely, can lead to significant wealth accumulation.

Of course, you can’t even begin to use debt to your advantage if you don’t have good credit. And if that’s the case, CredEvolv can help you (more on that later).

Understanding how to leverage debt and credit can transform the way you think about your finances. It can also open doors to opportunities that might otherwise have been inaccessible. Here are a few of the ways smart investors use debt and credit to benefit themselves.

Before you read on, remember that we are not financial advisors or investment experts. You should always consult one or both before you forge ahead with any investment strategy.

Leveraging debt and credit to amplify returns.

One of the primary ways investors use debt is through leverage. This involves occasionally borrowing money to increase the potential return on investment. This strategy is commonly used by real estate investors, who often use mortgages to purchase properties.

Instead of paying the full price up front in cash, they make a down payment and finance the rest. This allows them to acquire more properties than they could if they were buying them outright.

The resale or rental income generated from these properties can usually cover the purchase price or the mortgage payments and still provide a profit. Over time, as property values appreciate, the investor’s equity in the properties grows. This can lead to substantial returns when it comes time to sell or access the accumulated equity.

Using low-interest loans for investment.

Smart investors often take advantage of low-interest loans to fund their investments. When the interest rate on borrowed money is lower than the return on the investment, the investor can pocket the difference.

For example, with home equity loans and lines of credit (HELOCs), property owners can tap into the equity in their homes to secure low-interest loans. These funds can then be used to invest in higher-yield opportunities. The interest paid on these loans may also be tax-deductible, further enhancing their attractiveness (consult with a tax professional for specific details).

With business loans, entrepreneurs might have a lower-interest way to expand their operations, purchase new equipment, or invest in new projects. If the business generates a return that exceeds the cost of the loan, this can be a highly effective use of debt.

Whether they’re investors or not, smart people prioritize building and maintaining good credit to ensure they can enjoy the most advantageous terms possible when they need to borrow money.

Using credit cards for short-term financing.

While credit cards are sometimes seen as a means of making everyday purchases – and not an ideal way, at that, even in our increasingly cashless society – investors may find them strategically useful for short-term financing and rewards.

Some credit cards offer an introductory 0% interest rate on purchases or balance transfers for a specified period. Investors can use these offers to finance other money moves without incurring interest, provided they pay off the balance before the promotional period ends.

Additionally, by using credit cards that offer rewards or cash back, investors can earn money on their regular expenditures. These rewards can be reinvested or used to offset other costs.

Having good credit.

Of course, being able to do any or all of the above is contingent upon a strong credit profile. Whether they’re investors or not, smart people prioritize building and maintaining good credit to ensure they can enjoy the most advantageous terms possible when they need to borrow money. This involves:

• Making timely payments on all debts (the most critical factor in maintaining a strong credit score).
• Keeping credit utilization low (ideally below 30% of available credit).
• Having a mix of credit types (such as revolving credit like credit cards and installment loans like mortgages and car notes).

Conclusion

Debt and credit, when used judiciously, can be powerful tools in an investor’s arsenal. The key is to use them strategically and responsibly, always weighing the potential returns against the risks. Always heed the advice of a trusted financial advisor or investment expert!

Remember, while debt can be beneficial, it’s essential to have a solid plan and to consider the risks involved. Over-leveraging or mismanaging debt can lead to financial difficulties. It’s a necessity to approach these strategies with caution (and ideally under the guidance of the professionals we’ve mentioned).

If you plan to do that or you’ve already done so, that’s smart! If your credit isn’t quite where you need it to be, you should be smart about that too. Work with us! At CredEvolv, we only partner with certified, nonprofit credit counselors who can get you the results you’re looking for – legally, ethically, and without the pitfalls of all those scammy, for-profit credit repair companies out there.

Whenever you need our help in that area, we’re here for you. Because with careful planning, disciplined execution, and excellent credit, debt can indeed be a friend rather than a foe in the journey to financial success!

Key takeaways about credit misconceptions:

• In the realm of personal finance, few things wield as much influence as your credit score.
• Unfortunately, credit misconceptions abound, leading many consumers to make decisions based on myths rather than facts.
• This article debunks some of the most pervasive credit misconceptions to help you navigate your financial journey more effectively.
• By delving deeper into these credit misconceptions and arming yourself with accurate information, you can take proactive steps to manage and improve your credit health effectively.

Okay, maybe “lies” is a bit strong of a word to use in an article about credit misconceptions. How else were we supposed to draw you in with a twist on the “Two Truths and a Lie” game?

Now that we have your attention, let’s talk less about outright lies and more about common misconceptions about credit. Because in the realm of personal finance, few things wield as much influence as your credit score.

Whether you’re applying for a mortgage, wanting to finance a solar energy system for a home you already own, seeking a new credit card, or even attempting to rent an apartment, your credit score can often be the determining factor in your ability to successfully move forward. Unfortunately, misinformation about credit abounds, leading many consumers to make decisions based on myths rather than facts.

That’s one of the biggest reasons why we at CredEvolv don’t recommend searching for “best credit repair company” or “top credit repair companies” on Google or otherwise DIYing your credit fixes (more on that later). But we do believe in sharing knowledge and information. Let’s debunk some of the most pervasive credit misconceptions to help you navigate your financial journey more effectively.

1. High income automatically means a high credit score. FALSE!

One of the most widespread misconceptions is that a high income guarantees a stellar credit score. This assumption stems from the belief that more money equals better financial responsibility. However, credit scores are based on factors that do not include income (more on that later, too). Also, high earners can be susceptible to late debt payments or taking on too much debt. Similarly, lower-income individuals can have immaculate credit. So, while a higher income might help you manage debt more effectively, it does not directly impact your credit score.

2. Mistakes on credit reports are rare. FALSE!

It’s easy to assume that credit reporting agencies maintain error-free records, but in reality, that’s not always the case. According to a recent watchdog report, nearly half of all credit reports may contain errors. Some of them can be costly to a credit score calculation. These errors can range from incorrect personal information and inaccurately reported account statuses to fraudulent accounts opened in your name. Monitoring your credit report regularly (with the guidance of a credit counselor, if needed) allows you to notice and dispute errors promptly, ensuring your credit score accurately reflects your financial profile.

3. Negative accounts from bankruptcy do not impact credit scores. FALSE!

Another misconception is that negative information, such as accounts included in bankruptcy, stops affecting your credit score once the delinquent debt is settled. In fact, negative information like bankruptcies, foreclosures, and late payments can remain on your credit report for up to seven years or more, depending on the type of information. While the impact of these negative marks does lessen over time, it can still influence your ability to obtain credit and may affect the interest rates offered to you in the short term

In the realm of personal finance,
few things wield as much influence as your credit score.

4. Paying a collection account improves your credit score. FALSE!

Many consumers believe that paying off a collection account will immediately boost their credit score. Unfortunately, this is a myth. Collection accounts, whether paid or unpaid, can remain on your credit report for up to seven years from the date of delinquency. While some lenders may view a paid collection more favorably than an unpaid one, paying off a collection account does not remove it from your credit report or improve your credit score directly. So, don’t focus on how to remove paid collections from your credit report. Instead, concentrate on establishing positive credit behaviors moving forward to demonstrate financial responsibility. That may mean leaving a past collection account unpaid and putting your money toward your current debt burden. This is an example of a situation where you can absolutely benefit from working with a reputable credit counselor to determine the best course of action.

5. There is more to establishing good credit than paying bills on time. TRUE!

While timely bill payments are crucial for a healthy credit score, they are just one piece of the puzzle. Credit scoring models consider multiple factors to gauge your creditworthiness. These include the length of your credit history, the types of credit you use (such as credit cards and loans), your credit utilization ratio (the amount of credit you’re using compared to your total available credit), and recent credit inquiries. Building a strong credit profile requires attention to each of these areas, not just making on-time payments.

Final thoughts about credit misconceptions

Understanding the truth behind common credit misconceptions is essential for making informed financial decisions. Your credit score impacts your ability to secure favorable interest rates, your access to loans and other credit products, and even your ability to land your dream job. By delving deeper into these myths and arming yourself with accurate information, you can take proactive steps to manage and improve your credit health effectively.

Here’s the best part: you don’t have to do it alone. In fact, we don’t recommend the do-it-yourself approach, especially if you’ve had credit challenges in the past or you have no credit history at all and are looking for the best way to get started. At CredEvolv, we only work with certified, nonprofit credit counselors who can help you get better results than for-profit credit repair companies. It’s all done legally and in compliance with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and the Telemarketing Sales Rule (TSR).

Remember, maintaining good credit is a discipline that requires vigilance, knowledge, and responsible financial habits. Stay informed, monitor your credit regularly, and when needed, seek professional guidance from CredEvolv’s counselor partners to navigate the complexities of credit confidently!

Key takeaways about avoiding credit trouble:

• The pitfalls associated with borrowing money can be plentiful.
• More often than not, people run into credit trouble because they simply didn’t know what the pitfalls were.
• The helpful hints in this blog are for everyone, whether you’re just starting to build your credit history or looking to maintain a healthy credit score going forward.
• Understanding the fundamentals of credit can make a significant difference in your attitude about borrowing money and your ability to avoid credit trouble.

Now more than ever, credit plays a pivotal role in your financial picture. From taking advantage of business and homeownership opportunities to functioning on a day-to-day basis in an increasingly online and cashless society, being able to borrow money has become a fact of life for many people – either for the very short term, like floating a purchase on a credit card, or over several decades, like taking out a home loan.

Here at CredEvolv, we understand why some folks have apprehensions about going into debt for any reason. The pitfalls associated with borrowing money can be plentiful. And usually when someone begins utilizing our platform, it’s because they’ve already experienced a few of them (or they know someone who has). More often than not, people run into trouble with credit because they simply didn’t know what the pitfalls were.

The helpful hints in this blog are for everyone, whether you’re just starting to build your credit history or looking to maintain a healthy credit score going forward. Understanding the fundamentals of credit can make a significant difference in your attitude about borrowing money, your ability to manage debt wisely, and the benefits you can enjoy by being a smarter borrower.

Here are six essential tips to help you avoid credit trouble before it starts.

1. NEVER make a late loan or rent payment.

We put NEVER in all caps for a reason. The most critical factor in maintaining a good credit score is your history of making on-time payments. This carries the most weight (35%) when your score is calculated. Even one late payment can have a severe negative impact on your credit score and can stay on your credit report for years. Whether it’s an installment loan, credit card bill, or rent payment – yes, there are services that can add these to your credit report – always strive to pay on time. Set up reminders or automatic payments to ensure you never miss a due date. Under no circumstance should you adopt the attitude that “the late fee isn’t that much, so I’ll just pay it and play catch up on my payments next month.”

2. Don’t max out your credit cards.

Your credit utilization ratio, which is the amount of credit you’re using compared to your total credit limit, plays a significant role in your credit score, counting 30% toward your score’s calculation. The general recommendation is to keep your overall credit utilization between 25%-35% of your total limits (or less) to maintain a healthy score. Maxing out your credit cards can signal financial irresponsibility to lenders and negatively impact your creditworthiness. If possible, pay off balances in full each month to avoid high interest charges and keep your utilization low. Also try to resist any offers to increase your credit limits unless you absolutely need more borrowing power.

By all means, educate yourself on these concepts to make informed financial decisions, but be careful about DIYing your credit improvement efforts.

3. Don’t close credit card accounts.

This one seems counterintuitive, because many people think less is more when it comes to their credit (like with the credit utilization ratio we just discussed). However, closing credit card accounts, especially older ones, can reduce your available credit and negatively impact your credit utilization ratio. If you have a credit card with no annual fee and a positive payment history, consider keeping it open, even if you’re not actively using it. Keeping accounts open for a longer duration can also positively impact the average age of your credit history. That’s another factor that counts 15% toward calculating your credit score.

4. Don’t apply for credit too often.

Store credit cards, airline miles credit cards, cash back credit cards – you’re probably bombarded with offers that all seem to have great benefits. Why not go for every one of them? Remember, each time you apply for credit – whether it’s a credit card, installment loan, or mortgage – a hard inquiry is placed on your credit report. Multiple inquiries within a short period can lower your credit score temporarily, because the number of recent inquiries counts 10% toward the calculation of your credit score. Be strategic about applying for credit and only do so when necessary. Research and compare offers beforehand to choose the best option without making multiple applications.

5. Think twice before co-signing someone else’s credit application.

At CredEvolv, our whole business model is based on helping people. But in your case, when it comes to co-signing a loan or credit application, you should do so with caution. Why? Because you become equally responsible for the debt. While co-signing can help someone else get approved for credit, it also means you get dinged if that person doesn’t make payments on time. Before agreeing to co-sign, be as certain as you can possibly be that you trust the individual’s ability to manage credit responsibly. Also make sure you completely understand the potential implications for your own credit score and financial health. This leads us to our final tip:

6. Don’t start or continue your credit history without first understanding how credit works.

Understanding the basics of credit — such as how interest rates work, the impact of late payments, and the importance of credit scores — is crucial before you start or continue using credit cards or taking out loans. By all means, educate yourself on these concepts to make informed financial decisions. But be careful about DIYing your credit improvement efforts. Consider seeking advice from the nonprofit credit counselors on the CredEvolv platform if you’re unsure about any aspect of managing credit.

Conclusion

If you’re just getting started on your credit journey, you can significantly reduce the risk of encountering credit trouble and pave the way for a healthy credit profile by following these six fundamental tips. If you’re already run into a bit of trouble and are seeking help, keep these tips in mind as you move forward with a nonprofit CredEvolv counselor.

Remember that responsible credit management doesn’t only impact your ability to borrow money in the future. It also plays a role in securing favorable interest rates, lower insurance premiums, and even promising job opportunities.

Start building good credit habits now. Stay informed about changes in your credit report and score to maintain financial stability and achieve your long-term goals. With careful planning, discipline, and a little help from CredEvolv when you need it, you can navigate the world of credit successfully and avoid common problems along the way!

Key takeaways about for-profit credit repair:

• If you know you’ve had some credit issues in the past, you might be considering enlisting the services of a for-profit credit repair company.
• This article explains 6 ways CredEvolv is a better option for improving your credit than a for-profit credit repair company.
• Those ways include customized solutions, transparent pricing, and legal compliance.
• CredEvolv customers have expressed satisfaction with the education they gained on our platform as well as the positive results they achieved.

If you’re thinking about buying a new home, you may or may not be keeping tabs on the state of inflation and the Federal Reserve’s plans for lowering its interest rate. And if you’re not, you should.

The Fed wrapped up another policy meeting in June. While they didn’t lower the Fed funds rate after recent multiple increases, they did release an updated “dot plot”. This is a chart of each Fed member’s projections through the end of the year and into the future for the Fed rate.

In the current climate, the expectation is that both the Fed rate (the amount banks pay to borrow money from each other overnight) and mortgage interest rates (the amount consumers pay to borrow money to purchase a home) will start to come down when month-to-month consumer prices and job market statistics indicate a sustained reduction in inflation.

The exact month when that will happen isn’t written in stone. It can only be estimated, even by economists and other market experts. But at some point, inflation and interest rates will decrease and homeownership will become more affordable for more people.

But you’ll still have to have a healthy credit history and credit score to secure a mortgage. Is yours where it needs to be to get approved for a home loan? If you’re not sure, or you know you’ve had some credit issues in the past, you might be considering enlisting the services of a credit repair company.

At CredEvolv, we’re not a credit repair company. We’re something different, something better. And we’re something you should seriously consider as you plan your home purchase strategy.

Here are six ways that our way is better than their way:

Customized Solutions

Their Way: Those other credit repair companies offer an outdated, one-size-fits-all solution. This may actually jeopardize your mortgage readiness.

Our Way: Our approach to improving your credit score combines artificial intelligence and other high-tech solutions with high-touch human involvement. We gather your information and connect you with a nonprofit credit counseling agency. That agency will sign you up and paired you with your own personal credit counselor. Your counselor will create a customized Success Plan for you, which is your blueprint for getting loan ready. It’s based on your unique credit score makeup and goals.

Relevant FICO® Scores

Their Way: Most credit repair companies don’t use the same FICO® scores that mortgage lenders use when determining if you qualify for a home loan. This creates a disconnect between what you see and what the lender sees for your credit score. And the last thing you want when you’re trying to buy a home is not being on the same page as the person who can help you get a loan!

Our Way: No disconnects here! We use the same mortgage-specific FICO® scores lenders use. Even better, you can watch your score rise as you become loan ready in an average of 3 to 5 months (sometimes sooner)!

“I’ve learned more about credit in the last few months than I have over the last decade. Together we are achieving significant results, and I am so grateful for this company for allowing me to dominate in an area that once felt unattainable.”

Deidre J.

Transparent Pricing

Their Way: Since those other so-called, self-proclaimed top credit repair companies are not legally allowed to pull credit, they charge extra fees for credit monitoring services.

Our Way: The counselor partners on our platform are fully transparent with their costs up front. They are legally mandated to keep costs affordable and low – and are incentivized when you succeed. And they don’t need to enlist the services of another company (nor charge you) to pull your credit. In fact, they only pull your credit (soft pull only) after you’ve given them permission to do so.

Support From An Actual Human Being

Their Way: Most if not all credit repair companies leave you to do all the work on your own with little additional support.

Our Way: You’ll meet virtually with your coach each month. You’ll also get 24/7 access to a secure portal to share information, messages, and documents with your counselor conveniently, from any device.

Their Way: Traditional credit repair companies have minimal communication with Mortgage Loan Originators and Licensed Real Estate Agents.

Our Way: When your lender or real estate agent are on board with the CredEvolv platform, we can keep them informed (with your permission) about your progress toward your credit score goal. Then, when you’re mortgage ready, we’ll let your connected lender or agent know. Together, you can start house hunting with confidence!

Legally Compliant

Their Way: Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) regulations have become increasingly strict and applicable to the credit repair industry. Many of the top credit repair companies like the ones you see advertised on TV or in your social media feed are not in compliance. 

Our Way: There are no such legal concerns with CredEvolv. We’ll connect you with a highly vetted nonprofit credit counseling agency that is fully compliant with all legal regulations. 

These are just some of the reasons why we don’t call ourselves a credit repair company and we’re able to get testimonials like this one from our consumers:

“I’ve learned more about credit in the last few months than I have over the last decade. Together we are achieving significant results, and I am so grateful for this company for allowing me to dominate in an area that once felt unattainable.” – Deidre J.

Planning on buying a house soon? Get loan ready now with CredEvolv. You deserve it.

Enroll today!

Key takeaways about the importance of good credit:

• In this CredEvolv guide, we’ll delve into the importance of good credit and how to manage your credit score effectively.
• We’ll also answer some of the most common questions about credit repair and debt management.
• Good credit can lead to lower interest rates on loans and higher credit limits. It can also increase your chances of approval for rental agreements, mortgages, starting a business, and more.
• By understanding credit basics, managing debt effectively, and employing credit solutions with a partner like CredEvolv, you can take control of your financial future.

June is the month when we celebrate Father’s Day. We also honor those who have earned their diplomas, degrees, or certifications after years of hard work. To members of both groups, we say congratulations! You’ve each solidified your position within the realm of adulthood!

Perhaps you’re a recent high school or college graduate who’s ready to enter the working world, or you’re a new (or even not-so-new) parent navigating the twists and turns of life. One thing unites us all: the importance of good credit. In this CredEvolv guide, we’ll delve into why having a healthy credit score matters and how to manage it effectively. We’ll also answer some of the most common questions about credit repair and debt management.

Understanding the basics: What is credit?

Before we take a deeper dive into the nitty-gritty of credit health, credit repair, and debt management, let’s start at square one. Credit is essentially your financial reputation, reflecting your ability to borrow money and repay it on time. It’s measured by a credit score, also known as a FICO score, that typically ranges from 300 to 850. Higher scores indicate better creditworthiness.

Why does good credit matter?

Good credit can open doors to financial opportunities. It can mean lower interest rates on loans and higher credit limits. It can also increase your chances of approval for rental agreements, mortgages, starting a business, and more. On the flip side, poor credit can lead to higher interest rates and difficulty securing loans. It can even impact your ability to rent a home or land a job.

What’s the difference between debt consolidation vs. credit repair?

Debt consolidation involves combining multiple debts into a single loan, often with a lower interest rate or more favorable terms. This can streamline payments and make it easier to manage debt. On the other hand, credit repair focuses on improving your credit score by addressing negative items on your credit report.

Here at CredEvolv, we don’t consider ourselves to be a credit repair company. We consider ourselves to be a better alternative to even the best credit repair company. Why? Because we’ve created the ultimate solution. We combine the personal help of a certified, nonprofit credit counselor with our high-tech digital portal. Designed by lending and credit industry experts who know what it takes to become financially fit and truly loan ready, ours is a platform for future credit success. It isn’t just a patchwork way of dealing with your past credit missteps.

How can I remove negative items from my credit report?

If you’re looking to improve your credit score, removing things like paid collections, charge-offs, inaccurate information, and closed accounts from your credit report can help. But if you’re thinking of DIYing your credit score fixes or working with a scammy for-profit credit repair organization, think again.

At CredEvolv, our platform has been proven to exponentially increase your chances of qualifying for a loan (even if you’ve previously been denied) versus those who try to go it alone. And most importantly, our methods are legal, ethical and transparent. That’s not something a lot of those “quick fix credit repair” companies can say.

What are the pros and cons of credit cards?

As many retailers and other entities move further away from accepting cash or checks, credit cards offer convenience and flexibility, allowing you to make purchases and build credit history. However, they also come with the risk of overspending and accumulating debt if not used responsibly. Understanding the pros and cons can help you make informed decisions about credit card usage. That’s one of the things our highly vetted and trained credit counselors can help you with when you sign on with CredEvolv.

What’s the difference between secured vs. unsecured credit cards?

Secured cards require a security deposit, which serves as collateral and determines your credit limit. These are a great option for those who have a limited or non-existent credit history or a lower credit score. Unsecured cards, on the other hand, don’t require a deposit. They may have higher interest rates and fees for those with less-than-perfect credit.

Our tools empower our partners to serve credit-challenged consumers more effectively and put 100% focus on helping them achieve their financial goals with accurate, personalized, and timely information and a demonstrated history of improving credit scores.

What’s the fastest way to buy a house with bad credit?

Improving your credit score is key to qualifying for a mortgage with favorable terms. Contrary to what some of those for-profit credit repair companies promise, there’s no overnight solution. Steps like paying bills on time, reducing debt, and working with a legal, ethical, and reputable credit solution company like CredEvolv can expedite the process. You can also learn how to keep your credit healthy for years to come.

What are the three Cs of credit?

Lenders assess your creditworthiness based on the three Cs: character, capacity, and capital. Character refers to your reputation for repaying debts. Capacity evaluates your ability to repay based on income and existing debt. Capital represents the assets you own, which can serve as collateral.

Coincidentally, at CredEvolv, we have our own set of three Cs: consumers (people like you), counselors (our network of vetted, nonprofit credit coaches), and connectors (people like your lender or attorney, who can refer you to us).

How can I choose the best credit repair company?

When selecting a credit repair company, look for reputable firms with a track record of success, transparent pricing, and a reputation for doing business in a way that’s compliant with current rules and regulations. Reading reviews and testimonials, comparing services, and verifying accreditation can help you make an informed decision.

Unfortunately, many for-profit credit repair companies continue to operate illegally in the face of Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and Telemarketing Sales Rule (TSR) regulations. Often, the only compliant way to do credit repair is through nonprofit counseling agencies like the ones we partner with at CredEvolv.

Our tools empower our partners to serve credit-challenged consumers more effectively and put 100% focus on helping them achieve their financial goals with accurate, personalized, and timely information and a demonstrated history of improving credit scores. Their specialties include debt-management and budgeting, free counseling for foreclosure prevention, home purchasing and renting, student loan debt, and more. 

Reinforcing the importance of good credit

Good credit is one of the cornerstones of financial stability and can help pave the way to future opportunities. By understanding the importance of good credit, managing debt effectively, and employing credit solutions with a partner like CredEvolv, you can take control of your financial future. Remember, it’s never too early or too late to start building better credit habits and securing a brighter tomorrow – especially if you’re a dad, grad, or both!