| The first
step in improving your credit is determining your credit
score. You can obtain your credit score by ordering
a credit report
through our credit resources. This report
will reveal your score as well as any negative marks
on your credit record.
If you've run into credit obstacles in the past and
you discover negative marks on your report, don't give
up hope. You can actually have past marks on your
credit removed through credit
repair.
By understanding your credit report, repairing any
negative marks and making responsible financial decisions,
you can enjoy a more profitable financial future. Think
of your credit score as a picture of your credit risk.
This picture reflects your risk at a specific point
in time. A picture does not change; however, when you
take another one, you will probably look a little different.
Similarly, when your credit information changes, your
score will also change to reflect the updated information.
There are steps you can take to ensure that each time
a new “credit picture” is taken, it shows
your best side. By observing the following guidelines,
you can influence your credit worthiness for the better:
Be punctual- Pay all your bills on time. Late payments,
collections, and bankruptcies have the greatest negative
effect on your credit score.
Check your credit report regularly and take the necessary
steps to remove inaccuracies – Don’t let
your credit health suffer due to inaccurate information.
If you find an inaccuracy on your credit report contact
the creditor associated with the account or the credit
reporting agencies to correct it immediately.
Watch your debt – Keep your account balances
below 50% of your available credit. For instance, if
you have a credit card with a $1,000 limit, you should
try to keep the balance owed below $500.
Give yourself time – Time is one of the most
significant factors that can improve your credit score.
Establish a long history of paying your bills on time
and using credit responsibly. You may also want to keep
the oldest account on your credit report open in order
to lengthen your period of active credit use.
Avoid excessive inquiries – A large number of
inquiries occurred over a short period of time may be
interpreted as a sign that you are opening numerous
credit accounts due to financial difficulties or overextending
yourself by taking on more debt than you can easily
repay.
|