Why your credit health is important, even after you retire.

Retirement is your time. Maintaining credit health can make it easier to do the things you want to do.

How do you see your retirement: kicking back on a sunny beach? Starting a new business? Travel? Whatever your plans, good credit health can help your retirement be everything you want it to be. Things such as:

Buying a car. Whether you're downsizing to a sleek two-seater or touring the country in a recreational vehicle, good credit may help you qualify for the best loan rates. Good credit can also positively influence insurance rates.

Travel. Healthy credit may mean better rates on credit cards. Look for cards that offer special travel benefits such as frequent flyer points, optimum foreign exchange rates, trip insurance, and medical coverage while in another country.

Getting a mortgage or refinancing. Is it time to downsize? You may be eligible for the best rates on a new mortgage. Same thing if you're refinancing or getting a home equity loan.

Starting a new business. You always wanted to….what? Own a restaurant? Open a hardware store? Make furniture? You may qualify for the best rates on business loans if you maintain your credit health.

Or just enjoying life. You could wake up tomorrow morning and decide to open a taco truck, start volunteering in an animal shelter, or write a book. Hey, it's your time. Good credit may give you the best options to pay for spur-of-the-moment happiness.