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Should I Pay My Loan Off Early?

Should I Pay My Loan Off Early? article image.

Dear Experian,

I have a friend who took out a personal loan just so she could build up her credit. She's nearly 40 with no credit. She still has six months of payments to make on it. I was wondering if it is bad to pay it off early or does that help her?

- JNS

Dear JNS,

Open and active accounts are scored more highly than closed accounts because they demonstrate that you are managing credit well now and not just in the past. While paying the loan off early may save her some interest fees, it is better for her credit history to leave it open until she has been approved for other credit accounts.

Making Payments on Time Is the Key to Good Scores

Whether or not she pays her loan off early, the most important thing is that all payments were made on time. Payment history is the number one factor in credit scoring, so even one missed payment will hurt scores.
She also should review her contract carefully to ensure there is no early repayment penalty. Such a penalty will not affect her credit history, but could result in additional expense.

Opening a Credit Card Can Help Build Credit

With an established credit history, she may be able to qualify for a credit card. If so, she should give serious consideration to getting one. A credit card will help her build a strong credit history and credit scores more quickly.

Unlike an installment loan that sets a specific payment amount each month, a credit card allows the holder to decide how much they want to charge and how much they want to pay each month.

Because the holder makes these decisions, credit card use provides much greater insight into how the individual will manage other accounts. As a result, credit cards play an important role in establishing strong credit scores.

Thanks for asking.
Jennifer White, Consumer Education Specialist

Personal Loan Calculator

^†The information provided is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. Experian cannot guarantee the accuracy of the results provided. Your lender may charge other fees which have not been factored in this calculation. These results, based on the information provided by you, represent an estimate and you should consult your own financial advisor regarding your particular needs.

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