The car payment needs to go! I need the credit history, so immediately after my Roth contribution, I'll aggressively pay this down to a $200 balance. I'll let that payment ride until maturity and essentially pay $50 in total interest cost to add 100 points on my credit score. MAYBE I could get a 13% return on my investments, but hey, it's not often that you get that kind of return with no risk (unless it's T-bills in the 1970's).

I understand that you need the credit history, especially at your age. So how about you shop around for a $5,000 loan at your credit union (if you have one) or your bank? You should be able to get a really good rate just now. Then you could pay off that awful 13% car note but still get a nice notation on your credit rating.

phantomdiver