Is ignorance bliss? Consumer accuracy in judgments about credit ratings

Abstract

There is considerable evidence to suggest that consumers are often misinformed about basic financial and economic principles. The purpose of this study was to examine the accuracy of consumers' self-assessments of their credit ratings. Findings suggest that approximately 32 percent of consumers overestimate their credit ratings, while only 4 percent underestimate their credit ratings. Those who overestimate their credit quality are less knowledgeable about financial matters in general and are more likely to have acquired their financial knowledge from difficult past experiences. In addition, consumers who overestimate their credit ratings are less likely to budget, save, or invest regularly. © Copyright 2008 by The American Council on Consumer Interests.