Pay hikes over the past four years have lifted the wages of people who work in hospitality — the nation’s lowest-paid industry — nearly 30% on average, reversing much of the wage inequality that has been growing for decades in the United States.

In 40 states, even those that haven’t raised their minimum wage beyond the $7.25 federal floor, the recent pay jumps outpaced those of earners in each state’s highest-paying industry, usually energy, technology or the federal government.

Most Americans are trying to improve their credit, a survey from NerdWallet found, but they could face several obstacles along the way. Factors such as lingering holiday debt, credit card delinquencies and the return of student loan payments are some of the possible threats to credit scores and reports in 2024. But planning for these circumstances can help people avoid surprises and take the appropriate steps to protect their credit.