|
Your credit history is what banks and other
lenders look at to determine your ability to repay
debt. The more confidence the lender has in you,
the more money they will lend and the lower the
interest rate you'll receive. It's really quite
simple - to build a solid credit history and high
credit score, pay your bills on time and don't
overextend yourself.
Build your
credit
If you don't have a well-established credit
history - build one slowly. Begin with smaller
credit cards, such as department store cards or
gasoline cards. Make small purchases and pay your
bills on time. Over time, you will be an
established, responsible borrower. This will help
you as your credit needs grow&house, car,
etc.
Monitor your credit report
Sometimes your credit report may contain
inaccuracies. These inaccuracies may be caused by
simple errors or fraudulent activities. Either
way, it's up to you to clear your name. The Fair
Credit Reporting Act ensures your right to dispute
such inaccuracies without charge.
Below are the three largest credit reporting
agencies in the United States. You may contact
them for a copy of your report. You may be charged
a small fee.
| Experian |
|
Equifax |
|
Trans union |
P.O. Box 2002 Allen, TX
75013 (888) 397-3742 |
|
P.O. Box 740241 Atlanta, GA
30374 (800) 685-1111 |
|
P.O. Box 1000 Chester, PA
19022 (800)
916-8800 | |
It's never too late to improve
your credit.
 |
 |
 |
|
| Even if
you've had credit problems in the past, it's
never too late to begin repairing your credit
history. Here are some tips to keep in
mind: |
 | |
|
|
 |
If credit cards have gotten you in trouble
before or you recently consolidated your credit
card debt, the safest thing you can do is close
those accounts. Close and cut them up, or you
could end up worse off than before. |
 |
Make all of your credit card and loan
payments on time. |
 |
Don't borrow excessively. |
 |
Regularly check your credit report for
inaccuracies | |
|
 |
 |
 |
|