How many credit cards does one need to show a stable payment history on? Does it matter if late payments appear from 3+ years ago?

That would be a question for the credit bureaus: trans union, Equifax, Experian or to ask a credit repair specialist. If you are looking to get preapproved for a mortgage our company starts looking at credit scores starting at 580+. If you are in Pa. I am licensed and can help you further. Thanks, Jason NMLS 147890

More info needed.. but in general, late payments only show if you were 30 days or more late.. and if you had one or two from 3 years ago, it's probably not affecting your credit that much.. As far as how many credit cards do you need.. there's no "one fit's all" answer.. if you have ton's of other credit references, then you probably don't need any credit cards to obtain good scores.. but if you have little to no credit the having multiple credit cards that are paid good can be very beneficial.. I'm a Broker here in Scottsdale AZ and I only lend in Arizona. If you or someone you know is looking for financing options, feel free to contact me or pass along my information. William J. Acres, Lender411's number ONE lender in Arizona. 480-287-5714 WilliamAcres.com NMLS# 226347