<prompt> Human: I hate overly specific threads but Im really confused about this and my bank isnt helping me.Basically I make x dollars and its fine. I use YNAB for budgeting, and run everything through my credit cards for cash back rewards. While Ive made a lot of extra bank playing the credit card game, I recently got a personal loan for some home repairs and I got a bad APR largely because of my credit utilization.This happened previously, too, when applying for a home loan. My bank wouldnt give me one because of the age of my credit but also because of utilization. Its also reflected in my Credit Karma score, for whatever thats worth. My Discover card reports 70, but Ive already since paid it down to 0 again.My age of credit is def. a concern only around 3 years or so. Is the best bet to only use local credit unions if I need to get a car loan or another home loan? It seems like dealing with a someone who I can give a broad history to would be better than dealing with my regional bank or a national one.eta: Forgive the crappy title. Assistant: Utilization has no memory so if you pay them down to 0 or near 0 a few days before your statement date, then theyll report super low. You should have done in the 30-60 days before applying for a home loan. Human: So the next time I do this maybe pay down and then use my debit card instead.  <response>: Or just pay the balance before the statement cuts 2-3 days before to make sure they clear. Then youll report a 0 or close to balance for the period, lowering your utilization. 