Saturday, August 8, 2026
Personal Finance

Paying Off Loans Can Hurt Credit Scores

A credit expert warns that paying off loans too quickly might quietly damage your credit score.

Many people try hard to improve their credit scores. Some think paying off loans fast is always the best way. But a credit expert, Micah Smith, has a different view. He says that paying off loans completely can sometimes hurt your score.

Your credit score shows how well you handle debt. Lenders want to see a history of responsible borrowing. When you pay off a loan, that account closes. This can shorten your credit history. A shorter history makes you look less experienced with credit.

Smith suggests keeping a mix of different open credit accounts. This shows you can manage various types of debt. It's not just about paying debt, but also about how you keep credit active. This strategy can help your score grow steadily over time.

So, while paying off debt feels good, think about your credit history too. Keeping some accounts open and active can help build a stronger credit score. This approach creates a more reliable financial picture for lenders.

Source: Fox Business

#Personal Finance#Credit Scores#Debt Management

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