Bad credit will continually haunt you. Not only does it affect loan applications, but also insurance premiums and home rental inquiries too. Two of the biggest causes of low credit scores are late payments and delinquent payments. This article will give you tips for improving an imperfect credit score.
A secured credit card might be a good option for the person with a poor credit score. These accounts are much easier to get as you will have to fund the new account ahead of time with a deposit to cover any purchases. Responsible use of a credit card can help rebuild your credit.
Credit Score
Once you have your credit score higher, you will be able to finance a house. One way to help improve your credit is to pay your monthly mortgage payments on time. Owning your own home also improves your credit score in the form of having large assets to borrow against. If you have to take out a loan, this will help you.
If you can afford to pay another monthly bill, an installment account paid on time will increase your credit rating. You need to review the terms of an installment account carefully, because you’ll be required to maintain a certain monthly minimum. Paying on time and maintaining a balance will help improve your credit score.
Legitimate negative credit problems can not be easily wiped away from your credit rating, so be wary of companies that promise they can do so. Negative entries on your record stick around for a term of seven years at a minimum, even if you take care of the debts involved. Items that you can get taken off your record are those that have been reported incorrectly or unfairly.
Credit Counseling Agency
Make sure you check out any credit counseling agency you consider using. While there are lots of counselors with your best interest at heart, there are others who just want your money. Some are simply fraudulent and are out to get your money. Intelligent customers will make sure to determine the legitimacy of a credit counseling agency before acquiring their services.
Learn what affect a debt settlement plan will have on your credit rating before you sign up. Some methods of credit settlement can be a blow to your credit score, so it’s important to check into your options and find one that won’t hurt you in the long term. The creditor is only interested in receiving the money due, and is not concerned with your credit score.
If you find any errors in your credit reports, you should dispute them. Draft a letter to reporting agencies disputing negative entries and also submit any available documentation. Make sure that you send the letter via recorded delivery, so that you can prove that the credit agency receives it.
To rebuild bad credit, it can be a good idea to get rid of your extra credit cards. You should only have one. It is important to make small payments or transfer a balance to the open account. You will be able to pay one bill instead of a plethora of small ones.
Taking time to examine your monthly credit card bill is critical to ensure that there are no errors. If there are late fees, you have to make sure that you take care of them immediately with the company so that they don’t send that information to the credit bureaus.
Bankruptcy should be a last resort. The record of the bankruptcy appears on your report and affects your credit rating for up to 10 years. Although it seems like the wise thing to do at the time, it will bring you negative consequences in the long run. It could be near impossible to receive a credit card or loan if you have filed for bankruptcy.
Anyone who hopes to get a loan or may one day be involved with their children’s college loans, should pay attention to their credit score. Your low credit score can be improved through the tips listed here, even if you’re in debt.