# Understanding credit

Learn how credit works, or dive deeper into what it means for your finances. Be better prepared to borrow – and handle any debt you may have.

## Understanding residual interest

Learn about residual interest – what it is, how it affects your account, and how to avoid it.  
[Understanding residual interest](https://www.breadfinancial.com/en/financial-education/understanding-credit/residual-interest-credit.html "Understanding residual interest")

## How to approach a credit score drop

Maintaining a good credit score is key. If your score has dropped, you’ll want to consider your next steps.  
[How to approach a credit score drop](https://www.breadfinancial.com/en/financial-education/understanding-credit/credit-score-drop.html "How to approach a credit score drop")

## How revolving credit works

Revolving credit provides you with ongoing access to a line of credit up to a certain amount. Learn about types of revolving credit.  
[How revolving credit works](https://www.breadfinancial.com/en/financial-education/understanding-credit/how-revolving-credit-works.html "How revolving credit works")

## All about credit scores

Get facts about credit scores and discover tips that could help raise your score. See common credit score ranges within this guide.  
[All about credit scores](https://www.breadfinancial.com/en/financial-education/understanding-credit/credit-scores-guide.html "All about credit scores")

## Why a credit card gets declined

We’ve summarized some reasons a credit card may get declined. Check out why card declines might happen and what to do.  
[Why a credit card gets declined](https://www.breadfinancial.com/en/financial-education/understanding-credit/why-credit-card-declined.html "Why a credit card gets declined")

## Credit utilization rates and credit scores

Learn what a credit utilization rate is and how it may affect your credit score. Find out how to calculate yours today.  
[Credit utilization rates and credit scores](https://www.breadfinancial.com/en/financial-education/understanding-credit/credit-utilization-rate.html "Credit utilization rates and credit scores")

## How credit limits work

What’s a credit limit and how is it determined? Read our article to gain insight into credit card limits and increases.  
[How credit limits work](https://www.breadfinancial.com/en/financial-education/understanding-credit/credit-limits-explained.html "How credit limits work")

## How to get a credit card cash advance

Learn what a credit card cash advance is and if it’s a wise credit option. Find out more about cash advances today.  
[How to get a credit card cash advance](https://www.breadfinancial.com/en/financial-education/understanding-credit/credit-card-cash-advance.html "How to get a credit card cash advance")

## Understanding lines of credit

Get details on lines of credit, also called LOCs. Discover common uses and how withdrawals work by reading this financial guide.  
[Understanding lines of credit](https://www.breadfinancial.com/en/financial-education/understanding-credit/lines-of-credit-basics.html "Understanding lines of credit")