The Cost Of Credit
The average person pays $130,000+ in interest over a lifetime.
A big slice of that is the quiet “credit tax” that a weaker score adds to every car, credit card, and mortgage. Here's the math, and what a stronger file could hand back to you.
- $200k+
- interest on a 30-yr mortgage
- $5–10k
- extra per car with weak credit
- 20%+ APR
- what a thin file pays on cards
Illustrative lifetime estimate across mortgage, auto, card, and student debt; individual figures vary widely by lender, balances, rates, and credit profile. Not a quote or an offer.
Why Credit Matters
Your score quietly sets your prices. A stronger one hands the money back.
Pick a purchase, drag the score, and watch the savings move in real time.
Your credit score
600
FairWhat better credit saves you
$34,200
back in your pocket with strong credit (780)
≈ $1,140 a year you could keep. Illustrative.
Fix my creditEducational Videos
Watch: Why Credit Can Cost or Save You Thousands
Educational videos to help you understand the real-world impact of credit on major financial decisions.
Auto Loan Example
A step-by-step walkthrough of how different APRs affect monthly payments on a typical auto loan.
Mortgage Example
How a 2-point difference in mortgage rate can affect your monthly payment and cost over 30 years.
Credit Score Basics
What goes into a credit score and why it matters to lenders when they review your application.
What to Do Before Applying
Steps you can take to prepare your credit profile before applying for a loan or funding.
Want help reviewing your credit profile?
Start with a credit and funding review so the Relentless team can understand your goals and recommend a clear next step.