<prompt> Human: Hi all! Okay, heres the deal. I have a 2200 subsidized student loan, and Im still in school so no interest is accruing. Im getting about 2200 back on my tax return, thanks to the American Opportunity Tax Credit. My question is, should I pay off the loan all at once, or would it be more beneficial for my credit to pay it off in, say, 200 a month increments? I currently have DECENT credit 640-650, but Im wanting to buy a house in the next year so Im trying to get it bumped up. I have about 1700 in credit card debt two cards with a combined 2500 credit limit that Im currently paying 300 a month to. Would it help more to split the 2200 between the credit card debt and student loan? I appreciate any advice anyone can give!  <response>: Better to pay off credit card debt and only minimum payments on student loan. Firstly, youll save the interest. The credit utilization benefit will be the same either way. Secondly, I believe carrying a balance on your card is not good for your credit score even if you make the minimums. 