Thursday, December 25, 2008

Credit Repair Tips and Tricks

Millions of Americans who lost their homes in the foreclosure crisis are now in dire need of credit repair. Bankruptcy can cause a low credit score by shedding 300 or more points off; not to mention that this information will remain on file for ten years. Foreclosure is just as insidious, often costing ex-homeowners 300 points and a 7-year blemish on their credit score. There are ways to bring up poor credit yourself, as well as utilizing companies that specialize in this field.

If you're wondering how to bring up a low credit score, then you'll be happy to know there are a several ways to do so. First, check your free credit score with Experian, TransUnion and Equifax and be sure to be on the watch for any facts about identity theft while you are reviewing your credit report. Once you see what you're dealing with, you'll know where to begin in the quest to repair your credit. Next, pay off all your debts, beginning with the highest interest credit cards first. If you need help with this area, then you may want to consult a credit repair attorney. While you're paying these off, it's important that you do not close your accounts, as it will look like you're using a larger portion of your available credit. Lastly, look into getting what is known as "good debt," such as a mortgage, a school loan, a car loan or a self-financed installment loan; anything that will prove you can be trusted to make your monthly installments once again.

If you go through a credit card debt reduction company for your credit repair, then you'll pay the team a small fee to negotiate with your creditors on your behalf for settlement offers. If you've let the interest and late fees build up and you're drowning in debt, then this may be a good option for you. Instead of trying to finagle tons of payments, you'll just pay one monthly payment to your debt reduction counselor and he or she will then distribute payments to your creditors. Granted, if you don't feel timid about dealing with these bill collectors yourself, then you can often get similar deals on your own. Many people just feel more comfortable letting a professional negotiate on their behalf, which will effectively end those annoying phone calls and threatening letters as well.

If you're having trouble paying your bills, then you're not alone. According to www.cccservices.com, 30% of Americans are having trouble paying their bills. Did you know you could lose as much as 100 points from your credit score by missing one monthly payment on a credit card or one utility bill? Thirty percent of your credit score is comprised from your payment history, so credit repair requires paying your bills on-time. You may be wondering "What about those credit repair companies?" For people with insurmountable debt, going through Consumer Credit Counseling Services is probably a good idea. You may pay a little more in the long-run, but your life will be more manageable today, allowing you one monthly payment, debt settlement deals and a solid financial plan.

At an early age people are given the opportunity to begin building their credit. They can acquire credit cards, loans for vehicles and homes and even money for school. But what happens when this credit is maxed out and there is no way to repay it all? It is all too easy to find yourself in over your head in bad credit. But you do not have to stay that way. There are many resources on the internet that can help you eliminate those bills and get back on your feet.

For more information about doing your own credit repair: "Click Here Now"