Yes, it can make things more difficult, but it doesn’t have to stop your plans. If you apply for a big loan together, like a mortgage, lenders will look at both credit scores. A low score from one partner can mean a higher interest rate or even a denial. The best move is to work on building both scores together. The partner with better credit might need to apply alone for some things at first, while the other focuses on paying down debt and making on-time payments to improve their score.

Your Social Security number is the master key to your financial life. With it, a scammer can open new credit cards, take out loans, or get a phone plan in your name—all without you knowing. This is called identity theft. Only give this number when absolutely necessary, like for a job application, a tax form, or a legitimate loan you applied for yourself. Question anyone else who asks for it.

Check your credit at least 6 to 12 months before you plan to apply for a mortgage. This gives you enough time to fix any errors on your reports, like mistakes in your name or accounts that aren’t yours. It also gives you time to improve your score by paying down credit card balances and making every payment on time. A last-minute check might show problems you can’t fix quickly, which could delay or ruin your home-buying plans.

The biggest mistake is making late payments. Payment history is the most important part of your score. Even one payment 30 days late can hurt your score for years. Set up automatic payments for at least the minimum amount due. Life gets busy, so let technology help you protect your score. Always know your due dates and make paying on time your top priority.