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8 smart habits American Water Works employees can adopt to help boost credit scores

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'Strong credit habits can give American Water Works employees greater flexibility when preparing for major financial decisions, especially as they transition toward retirement,' says Michael Corgiat, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'American Water Works employees who build and maintain strong credit habits may position themselves for smoother financial decisions in the years leading up to retirement,' says Brent Wolf, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

How strong credit can support borrowing for major purchases.
Eight habits that may positively influence your credit score.
Ways to monitor and maintain the accuracy of your credit report.

When borrowing for a major purchase, strong credit can make the process smoother and possibly less expensive. Like preparing for a long-term project at American Water Works, progress comes from consistent effort over time—not rushing right before the deadline.

Here are eight habits that can support your credit score.

1. Make timely bill payments

Payment history is a major factor in credit scoring. Staying on top of due dates for loans and credit cards demonstrates reliability. Options like scheduled reminders or autopay can help keep everything flowing.

2. Maintain minimal credit balances

Using only a portion of your available credit—especially on revolving accounts like credit cards—can contribute to a stronger score. Credit utilization (how much of your borrowing limit you’re using) is a key consideration for lenders.

3. Keep older accounts open when it makes sense

The length of your credit history influences how strong your borrowing profile appears. Older accounts highlight more long-term behavior. However, if an account has high fees or encourages overspending, closing it may still be practical for some American Water Works households.

4. Limit unnecessary new credit applications

Applying for credit can trigger hard inquiries that temporarily place slight downward pressure on your credit score. Multiple inquiries for the same type of loan—like mortgage rate shopping—typically count as one within a defined window. Checking your own credit does not affect your score.

5. Maintain a healthy mix of credit types

Responsibly managing a blend of installment loans and revolving accounts can demonstrate financial flexibility. This doesn’t mean taking on debt that isn’t needed. However, thoughtfully managing different forms of credit over time may help strengthen your profile as life evolves during and after a American Water Works career.

6. Monitor your credit report regularly

You are entitled to free credit reports from the major bureaus—Equifax®, Experian®, and TransUnion®. Reviewing them can help identify errors, lingering balances, or signs of fraud. Staying proactive keeps your credit information accurate and up-to-date.

7. Dispute any reporting mistakes

If you find incorrect data on your report, you can file a dispute with the reporting bureau and contact the creditor at issue. Fixing errors can help make sure your score reflects your actual history.

8. Strengthen your overall financial picture

Budgeting, keeping debt manageable, and maintaining an emergency fund may make it easier to keep up with credit-related commitments. When finances stay organized, positive credit habits typically follow.

Need help planning for retirement?

A well-managed credit profile can be an important part of your overall financial life, including the transition into retirement. The Retirement Group can assist you as you prepare for your future. If you would like guidance, call (800) 900-5867 to speak with our team.

Need help planning for retirement?

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Sources:

1. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. “How Do I Dispute an Error on My Credit Report?” CFPB , 18 Dec. 2024, www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/how-do-i-dispute-an-error-on-my-credit-report-en-314/ . Accessed 27 Oct. 2025.

2. Experian Editorial Team. “Do Multiple Loan Inquiries Affect Your Credit Score?” Experian , 30 Aug. 2024, www.experian.com/blogs/ask-experian/do-multiple-loan-inquiries-affect-your-credit-score/ . Accessed 27 Oct. 2025.

3. FICO. “What’s in My FICO® Scores?” myFICO , n.d., www.myfico.com/credit-education/whats-in-your-credit-score . Accessed 27 Oct. 2025.

4. Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. “Credit Reports.” FDIC , 1 Aug. 2023, www.fdic.gov/consumer-resource-center/credit-reports . Accessed 27 Oct. 2025.

5. Federal Trade Commission. “Free Credit Reports.” FTC Consumer Advice , 2023–2024, consumer.ftc.gov/free-credit-reports. Accessed 27 Oct. 2025.

What type of retirement savings plan does American Water Works offer to its employees?

American Water Works offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

How can employees of American Water Works enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees of American Water Works can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does American Water Works match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, American Water Works provides a matching contribution to employee 401(k) plan contributions, subject to certain limits.

What is the maximum contribution limit for the American Water Works 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for the American Water Works 401(k) plan is determined by IRS guidelines, which may change annually.

Can employees of American Water Works take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, American Water Works allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to the plan’s terms and conditions.

What investment options are available in the American Water Works 401(k) plan?

The American Water Works 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

When can employees of American Water Works start withdrawing from their 401(k) accounts?

Employees of American Water Works can start withdrawing from their 401(k) accounts at age 59½, or earlier under certain circumstances.

Is there a vesting schedule for employer contributions in the American Water Works 401(k) plan?

Yes, American Water Works has a vesting schedule for employer contributions, which determines how much of the employer match employees are entitled to based on their years of service.

How often can employees of American Water Works change their 401(k) contribution amounts?

Employees of American Water Works can change their 401(k) contribution amounts at any time, subject to plan rules.

Does American Water Works provide educational resources for employees regarding their 401(k) plan?

Yes, American Water Works provides educational resources and tools to help employees understand their 401(k) plan and make informed investment decisions.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

American Water Works announced a significant restructuring that includes layoffs and a reorganization of its pension plan. This is part of a broader effort to streamline operations and reduce costs.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for American Water Works at 1025 Laurel Oak Road Voorhees, NJ 8043; or by calling them at (856) 346-8200.