Last Updated on Apr 7, 2020 by James W
Poor credit can happen to anyone, in fact, it more Americans are dealing with bad credit than you might think. ?It is a situation that can really hold you back from financing a much needed home, car, or simply borrowing money for life’s unexpected expenses. Fortunately, it doesn’t have to hold you back forever.
If you are dealing with a low credit score and looking for ways to give it a little boost, then the good news is that there are plenty of things you can do on your own. It can be a long journey depending on your situation, but with a helpful advice you can turn your score and keep it that way for good. The question is, are you ready to finally have a good credit score?
?First Things First?
In the past, it used to cost a fee and negatively impact your score to keep tabs on it, but thanks to sites like creditkarma.com you can now check your score for free. This will allow you to view your progress along the way and give you a motivational boost every time that number grows. Signing up takes no time at all, and you won’t be charged a penny at any point in the process.
?Correcting Issues?
The next thing you will want to do is go over your credit reports with a fine toothed comb. Examine them for any errors, and be ready to dispute them is there are any. Fixing an error on your report can easily boost your score by 25 points, but keep in mind that multiple errors will need to be disputed with each credit agency they are associated with.
?Working Together?
Lenders are looking to get paid more than they are looking to damage your credit score. If you can make a lump sum payment to pay off an existing debt, talk to your lender about it first. Make sure that they agree to remove the poor mark from your score and get it in writing first, they’ll be happy to have been paid and you can rest easy knowing that the issue was stricken from your record.
If you simply had a period of hardship that lead to some missed payments, but are now back on track, then try writing a letter to your lender. In a polite and kind tone, simply tell them what happened and make note that you have been paying on time since. You might be surprised at how many lenders will be understanding of your situation and help your situation out by restoring your score to its former glory.
?Slow and Steady Wins the Race
An easy way to tackle what seems like an insurmountable amount of money is to take it one month at a time. Take the amount you earn each month and multiply that by 12, then do the same with each of your bills. Subtract the bills from your annual income, then divide that number by 12.
What you are left with is your monthly budget. This will let you know exactly what you can afford to put towards paying off your outstanding debts each month, making the whole process that much more manageable. Make a plan, stick to it, and you will see your score rise in no time.
?Boosting Your Credit?
A less than desirable credit score is something that many of us deal with at one point or another, but you don’t have to let it control your life. Take charge, and make a plan to get yours back on track. With a little helpful advice, you can and will fix your credit.
