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8 smart habits Paychex employees can adopt to help boost credit scores

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Paychex Paychex partners with various healthcare providers to offer employee health insurance options, including plans through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace and group health insurance solutions. Their offerings typically feature comprehensive coverage options to align with the diverse needs of their employees. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 In 2026, Paychex employees may face significant healthcare cost increases as ACA marketplace premiums are projected to rise sharply, with some insurers estimating hikes exceeding 60%. This surge results from a combination of expiring federal premium subsidies, escalating medical costs, and aggressive rate increases from major insurers. With projections indicating that over 22 million marketplace enrollees could experience average out-of-pocket premium increases of 75% or more, it's crucial for Paychex workers to strategize their healthcare choices to mitigate these potential financial pressures. Click here to learn more

'Strong credit habits can give Paychex 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.

'Paychex 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 Paychex, 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 Paychex 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 Paychex 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 plan does Paychex offer to its employees?

Paychex offers a 401(k) retirement plan to its employees to help them save for retirement.

How can employees at Paychex enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees at Paychex can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does Paychex offer any matching contributions for the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Paychex provides a matching contribution for employees who participate in the 401(k) plan, subject to certain terms and conditions.

What is the maximum contribution limit for the Paychex 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for the Paychex 401(k) plan is determined by the IRS and may change annually; employees should check the latest guidelines for specifics.

Are there any fees associated with the Paychex 401(k) plan?

Yes, like many retirement plans, the Paychex 401(k) plan may have administrative fees, which are disclosed in the plan documents provided to employees.

Can employees at Paychex take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, Paychex allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to the plan's rules and limits.

What investment options are available in the Paychex 401(k) plan?

The Paychex 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds, allowing employees to diversify their portfolios.

How often can employees change their contribution amounts in the Paychex 401(k) plan?

Employees at Paychex can typically change their contribution amounts at any time, but changes may take effect in the next payroll cycle.

What happens to the Paychex 401(k) plan if an employee leaves the company?

If an employee leaves Paychex, they can roll over their 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash out, or leave the funds in the Paychex plan, depending on the plan’s rules.

Is there a vesting schedule for the Paychex 401(k) plan?

Yes, Paychex has a vesting schedule for employer contributions, which means employees must work for a certain period to fully own those contributions.