“Remember that credit is money.”
- January 17, 1706 – April 17, 1790
- American
- Polymath, Founding Father of the United States, Inventor, Diplomat, Writer
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Quote
“Remember that credit is money.”
Explanation
In this practical and pointed quote, Benjamin Franklin reminds us that credit—reputation for reliability in paying debts—is a form of financial capital. By stating “credit is money,” Franklin underscores that the trust others place in your ability and willingness to repay can be just as valuable as actual cash in hand. Good credit opens doors to opportunity, investment, and growth, while poor credit can restrict access and damage long-term prospects.
Franklin, as a printer, entrepreneur, and statesman, understood the essential role of trust and reputation in commerce. In The Way to Wealth, he often stressed that frugality, punctuality, and honesty in financial dealings were crucial for success. This quote reflects his broader belief that financial credibility builds both personal freedom and public confidence, functioning as a form of currency in itself.
In today’s economy, where credit scores influence everything from loans and housing to employment opportunities, Franklin’s advice is more relevant than ever. Maintaining good credit is not merely about borrowing—it’s about establishing a trustworthy financial character. His quote reminds us that creditworthiness is not abstract—it has real, tangible value, and must be treated with the same care and responsibility as money itself.
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