835 credit scores, travel points and holiday happiness

This Week’s Money Map:

• 💵 Credit score special: I worked hard to increase my credit score — Here's how I got to 835+

• 👌 Navigating open enrollment: Picking the right plan for you

• ✈️ Jet-setter's jackpot: Why Hyatt points are a traveler’s best friend

• 😊 Feel-good finances: Why giving brings holiday happiness

• 💰 Tiny tweaks, big savings: Prep your finances for 2025

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💵 Credit score special: I worked hard to increase my credit score — Here's how I got to 835+

Have you ever wondered how to crack that elusive 800+ credit score? Well, I've done it — I’m proud to say my credit score stands at over 835. Boosting your credit score isn't just a numbers game; it's a gateway to better interest rates, premium credit cards and financial freedom.  

Here are the five simple steps I used:

1. Never Miss a Payment: Late payments? Not in my world. I set up automatic payments for all my bills to ensure they're paid on time for every credit type, not just credit cards. Payment history is 35% of your credit score, so this is a non-negotiable.

2. Lower Credit Utilization: Want an easy way to boost your credit score? Credit utilization (how much credit you use) is 30% of your score! I dropped mine from 30% to under 10% by getting more credit cards, keeping balances low, and asking for higher credit limits every 6-12 months!

3. Be Cautious (but Not Too Cautious) With Applications: Although increasing your available credit with more credit cards can help, applying for too many new credit accounts in a short period can temporarily hurt your score. Each application triggers a hard inquiry, which can shave off a few points. I spaced out my applications over several months.

4. Keep Old Accounts Open: Some of my credit cards have been with me for over a decade. Closing them would shorten my credit history, which accounts for 15% of your score. I keep mine active with occasional small purchases.

5. Have a Mix of Loan Types: This is only 10% of your score, but having a mix of credit types (car loans, mortgages, etc.) that you are paying off consistently can increase your score. I only have a mortgage, so my mix might not be as strong as others.

Improving your credit score is simpler than you think. With consistent, smart steps, you can unlock better rates, premium perks, and greater financial flexibility. Start by accessing your free credit report to identify areas for improvement, then explore MoneyGeek’s actionable tips and practical strategies to boost your credit and elevate your financial game.

👌 Navigating open enrollment: Picking the right plan for you

Open enrollment is your annual window to tailor your health insurance to fit your life. Let’s break it down so you can make smart, stress-free choices this season:

Know Your Needs
Think ahead. Are you planning a big life event like starting a family? If so, choose a plan with solid maternity coverage. Or, if you're generally healthy, a high-deductible health plan (HDHP) paired with a health savings account (HSA) might save you money.

Compare Plan Types

• HMO: Great for saving money if your doctors are in-network and you don’t mind referrals.

• PPO: Offers more flexibility, letting you visit out-of-network providers without a referral.

• HDHP vs. Traditional Plans: HDHPs have lower premiums but higher deductibles. Pair one with an HSA for tax-advantaged savings.

Max Out Your Benefits
Already hit your deductible? Book any outstanding medical appointments to save on costs before your deductible resets.

Don’t Forget FSAs
Got a flexible spending account (FSA)? Use any remaining funds before year-end to avoid losing them.

Making the right choice now can save you big in 2025. Need help navigating options? Check out MoneyGeek’s guide to health insurance basics for tips on finding the perfect plan.

✈️ Jet-setter's jackpot: Why Hyatt points are a traveler’s best friend

Want to travel like a VIP without breaking the bank? 

Hyatt’s loyalty program is the secret sauce for luxury-loving travelers who want top-tier stays for fewer points. Hyatt focuses on quality over quantity, with brands like Thompson, Andaz, JdV and Mr. and Mrs. Smith offering everything from boutique chic to ultra-luxurious escapes.

Here’s where the magic happens: Hyatt points pack serious value. Take the iconic Park Hyatt Tokyo, where a single-night stay can easily hit $1,000. With points, it’s yours for just 35,000. That’s a cool three cents per point! Or imagine a tropical getaway at the Hyatt Regency Maui, a paradise you can book for only 25,000 points — way less than other chains on the island.

4 Smart Ways to Rack Up Hyatt Points:

• Chase Credit Cards: Cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® let you earn points that transfer 1:1 to Hyatt. With Chase as the only major bank partner, it’s a solid pick for Hyatt loyalists. 

• Bilt Card: For renters, the Bilt card allows you to make your monthly payment on the card and partners with the Hyatt loyalty program.

• World of Hyatt Credit Card: Earn up to 9X points on every purchase, with bonuses on Hyatt stays and dining. 

• Direct Bookings With Hyatt: Earn points on every dollar spent and enjoy perks if you’re an elite member.

Want to start stacking points? Check out MoneyGeek’s guide to the best travel credit cards to find the right card and make your dream trips a reality!

😊 Feel-good finances: Why giving brings holiday happiness

The holidays are about more than presents — they’re about connection, joy and happiness. Giving triggers a “helper’s high,” releasing endorphins and building social bonds. And the best part? It doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

Go for Experiences Over Stuff
Give them something they’ll remember, like concert tickets, a spa day or a cooking class. Shared experiences bring lasting joy and strengthen relationships — way more than material gifts ever could.

Small Acts, Big Smiles
Even tiny gestures pack a punch. Buy a friend their favorite coffee, write a heartfelt note or donate to a local food drive. Thoughtfulness always beats price tags and creates lasting connections.

Make It Personal
The secret to meaningful giving is matching gifts to people's passions. For example, a cozy book for your reader friend, custom baking tools for the foodie or a handmade photo album that tugs at the heartstrings.

Give Back as a Family
Why not spread the joy together? Volunteer at a local shelter, organize a donation drive or pool funds for a family charity contribution.

Plan Smart, Stress Less
Shop early for deals, prioritize close loved ones and don’t overlook budget-friendly gems like DIY crafts or subscriptions.

Generosity feels amazing and doesn’t have to blow your budget. For more tips to spread joy without overspending, check out MoneyGeek’s holiday budgeting guide. Because giving happiness? That’s priceless.

💰Tiny tweaks, big savings: Prep your finances for 2025

It’s almost year-end, and now’s your chance to tidy up your finances for a stellar 2025. A few quick moves now can mean big savings and less stress later. Let’s dive in:

Tackle Subscription Creep
Do you think you’re spending $86 on subscriptions? It might actually be $219! Check your bank and credit card statements for unused services and cancel unnecessary ones. Budgeting apps can help streamline the process.

Max Out Tax-Advantaged Accounts
401(k)s, IRAs and HSAs save you money now and later. Contributions lower your taxable income, and some employers offer free matches. Don’t leave that cash on the table!

Use Your FSA Before It’s Gone
Do you have a Flexible Spending Account? Use it before it expires! Eligible expenses include prescriptions, eyeglasses and copays.

Leverage Tax Loss Harvesting
Own investments in taxable accounts? Offset your capital gains by selling underperforming assets. It’s a win-win for your tax bill.

Make Business Purchases
Small business owner? Buy equipment or tech now to claim deductions for 2024.

Schedule Health Appointments
Hit your deductible this year? Use it! Book dental cleanings, checkups or specialists before it resets.

Trim Your Budget
Review spending categories and set realistic goals for 2025. Tiny tweaks here mean big gains later.

Small steps now can lead to big wins later. Check out MoneyGeek’s financial planning guide for more ways to maximize your savings and start the new year on the right financial foot.

Smart Cents gives you actionable tips and mindset shifts to help you reach your financial happy place. Thanks for being a part of our community.

The MoneyGeek Team

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