There are a few primary factors in getting qualified for a loan, today we’ll talk about one, that you might be able to easily update – the credit score. Here are a few tips to make sure your score is accurate and possibly improve it. Before getting started you’ll obviously need to know your credit score and you can order a free report from one of the big 3 or get a merged credit report.
1. Avoid late and missed payments – this is a big one. If you have trouble keeping track and paying bills consider setting up automatic payments because late payments can be an easily avoidable ding on your score.
2. Make Sure Balances aren’t too high. If you are carrying balances of more than 30% of your limit, try paying balances down. If you have high balances and are getting a stimulus check soon, consider using it to pay down your balances.
3. Not too much – Not too little. If you have too many new accounts or applications for credit this can be a point docker. On the flip side if you don’t have enough types of credit open it can hurt your score. This doesn’t apply to most people but if you only have a credit card consider getting a gas or retail card as well.
And remember to check you credit report for inaccuracies – they happen and are correctable!
