Managing Finances for a Better Credit Rating
 by: Holly Bentz

Having good credit helps in securing a rental.

In the world of finances it is all about managing debt to maximize one’s buying or renting power. Since a consumer’s credit score has a direct correlation on any financing or loan authorization, reviewing the accuracy of a credit report is a consumer savvy. Consequently, managing one’s personal finances for a better credit rating is critical.

Did you know that when financial institutions consider authorizing loan approval, they review your payment history? Even if you were unemployed when you were inundated with medical bills, the balance will appear on the credit report.

FACT: Over thirty-five percent of American consumers impaired with a low credit score -- due to expensive hospital and medical bills.

About Your Credit Report Card

A credit report is very similar to an adult life quality report card. It details such personal information as:

• Where a consumer works
• Where the individual resides
• Have you ever been convicted of a crime
• Has the individual ever been involved in a lawsuit or claim
• How you pay your bills

Credit reports or your report card are kept by organizations referred to as consumer reporting agencies (CRAs). These credit bureaus collect, compile and sell consumers credit documents to businesses. Banks and lending institutions approve applications based on credit. Certain insurance companies and employers evaluate one’s credit before writing a policy or extending employment.

Subsequently, Americans should always review their credit score to ensure the information is accurate. Financial advisors recommend that all consumers should report any updated, omissions or inaccuracies. Specifically, for the person planning to apply for a mortgage, auto loan or other personal loans (secured or non-secured) an exact truthful credit report is important. Moreover, the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) authorizes consumers the opportunity to submit corrections.

Another aspect of managing one’s finances with a better credit score is by checking the accuracy of information detailed on the credit file. Nonetheless, it may drastically accelerate the credit-granting process.

On the other side of the spectrum, consumers who are denied credit have the right to acquire the following information:

1. The credit bureau’s name (CRA)
2. The CRAs address and all contact information
3. A copy of a free report within 60 days of a denial
4. In lieu of fraud, being on welfare or unemployment, consumers a allowed one complimentary copy of their credit report

Generally, the cost of a credit report starts at nine dollars.
Next - Contacting Credit Reporting Agencies

Holly Bentz is a finance writer and a contributor to About Personal Loans. About-Personal-Loans.com  © About-Personal-Loans.com. All rights reserved.