Instead of giving your customers or potential customers a choice between you and your competition and having them choose the other guy, have them choose you.
Michelle Dunn’s new book” Become the Squeaky Wheel,” says creating a credit policy can have surprising results.
According to Dunn, a leader in the debt collection industry, some customers, when given the choice, between signing a credit application or paying at the time of sale, mostly choose the credit application regardless of who has the cheaper prices. It is true that some customers will buy more from you if they are approved for credit and have more time to pay. It makes it easy for them to place orders and receive a bill, rather than have to pay at the point of sale.
Like everything else, the easier you make it for the customer to buy from you the more sales you will have. Customers want things to be easy, fast and instant. If they are credit approved and can call and order and have the item quickly, then pay when they receive a bill, they will be more likely to order from you than someone who doesn’t offer that option. Resulting in your business making more money and more sales.
Michelle Dunn has over 17 years experience in credit and debt collection. She is the founder of Never Dunn Publishing, LLC, is a writer, consultant and the Editorial Advisor for Eli Financial Debt Collection Compliance Alert Newsletter. Michelle started M.A.D. Collection Agency and ran is successfully for 7 years. She also owns and runs Credit & Collections.com an online community for credit and business professionals.
She has written 5 books in her Collecting Money Series. She is currently writing a book for the Streetwise Series, part of the Adams Media Corporation. In addition to writing and marketing her books, Michelle moderates and runs Credit & Collections.com and was a member of The American Collectors Association for 9 years. Visit www.michelledunn.com or www.credit-and-collections.com for more information on any of Michelle’s books or services.
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
Bad Credit Loans - Get Up to $ Even With Past Credit Pr
Bad Credit Loans: How To Get Up to $15,000 Even With Past Credit Problems
By P. J. Morgan
Access Loan and Credit Data are offering $15,000 cash loans within 30 days, even to those with credit problems in the past or present.
"The reason we are doing this is because we know that many of you have been hurt by companies that make promises that they do not keep. We want you to know that we are not that way and we truly believe that you can not find a better program like this anywhere"
The fast cash need definitely exists. The fast cash industry is providing about $25 billion in short-term credit to millions of consumers experiencing cash flow problems between paydays. Unexpected, short term financial emergencies are a fact of life in today's economy and consumers often find it more feasible to take out a fast cash advance loan, rather than incur expense late fees, bounced check charges and other related financial problems.
"Large banks have limited hours and restrictive loan policies. People with bad credit or no credit that need cash quickly due to unexpected car repairs, medical bills and other events prefer using these alternative services. They are not asked about their credit records, and if they have a regular job they can get their payroll, government or personal check cashed, or get a short term loan quickly-for a fee. Most users gladly pay these fees for the more convenient hours and ease of use, but consumer groups and others criticize these services for the steep fees they may charge. At Access loan and credit data we guarantee If for any reason you do not receive up to $15,000 within 30 days, we will refund your money"
With bankruptcies and foreclosures on the rise, lenders are modifying their programs to continue to cater to the needs of the borrowers.
To find out more about the bad credit loans offered by Access Loan and Credit
Data please visit http://tinyurl.com/awuao
Peter Morgan is a 10+ year veteran in the IT business. He is an active Real
Estate Investor and a successful Internet business owner. http://tinyurl.com/awuao
By P. J. Morgan
Access Loan and Credit Data are offering $15,000 cash loans within 30 days, even to those with credit problems in the past or present.
"The reason we are doing this is because we know that many of you have been hurt by companies that make promises that they do not keep. We want you to know that we are not that way and we truly believe that you can not find a better program like this anywhere"
The fast cash need definitely exists. The fast cash industry is providing about $25 billion in short-term credit to millions of consumers experiencing cash flow problems between paydays. Unexpected, short term financial emergencies are a fact of life in today's economy and consumers often find it more feasible to take out a fast cash advance loan, rather than incur expense late fees, bounced check charges and other related financial problems.
"Large banks have limited hours and restrictive loan policies. People with bad credit or no credit that need cash quickly due to unexpected car repairs, medical bills and other events prefer using these alternative services. They are not asked about their credit records, and if they have a regular job they can get their payroll, government or personal check cashed, or get a short term loan quickly-for a fee. Most users gladly pay these fees for the more convenient hours and ease of use, but consumer groups and others criticize these services for the steep fees they may charge. At Access loan and credit data we guarantee If for any reason you do not receive up to $15,000 within 30 days, we will refund your money"
With bankruptcies and foreclosures on the rise, lenders are modifying their programs to continue to cater to the needs of the borrowers.
To find out more about the bad credit loans offered by Access Loan and Credit
Data please visit http://tinyurl.com/awuao
Peter Morgan is a 10+ year veteran in the IT business. He is an active Real
Estate Investor and a successful Internet business owner. http://tinyurl.com/awuao
Monday, August 29, 2005
Bad Credit Loans - Get Up to $15,000 Even With Past Credit Problems
Bad Credit Loans: How To Get Up to $15,000 Even With Past Credit Problems
By P. J. Morgan
Access Loan and Credit Data are offering $15,000 cash loans within 30 days, even to those with credit problems in the past or present.
"The reason we are doing this is because we know that many of you have been hurt by companies that make promises that they do not keep. We want you to know that we are not that way and we truly believe that you can not find a better program like this anywhere"
The fast cash need definitely exists. The fast cash industry is providing about $25 billion in short-term credit to millions of consumers experiencing cash flow problems between paydays. Unexpected, short term financial emergencies are a fact of life in today's economy and consumers often find it more feasible to take out a fast cash advance loan, rather than incur expense late fees, bounced check charges and other related financial problems.
"Large banks have limited hours and restrictive loan policies. People with bad credit or no credit that need cash quickly due to unexpected car repairs, medical bills and other events prefer using these alternative services. They are not asked about their credit records, and if they have a regular job they can get their payroll, government or personal check cashed, or get a short term loan quickly-for a fee. Most users gladly pay these fees for the more convenient hours and ease of use, but consumer groups and others criticize these services for the steep fees they may charge. At Access loan and credit data we guarantee If for any reason you do not receive up to $15,000 within 30 days, we will refund your money"
With bankruptcies and foreclosures on the rise, lenders are modifying their programs to continue to cater to the needs of the borrowers.
To find out more about the bad credit loans offered by Access Loan and Credit
Data please visit http://tinyurl.com/awuao
Peter Morgan is a 10+ year veteran in the IT business. He is an active Real
Estate Investor and a successful Internet business owner. http://tinyurl.com/awuao
By P. J. Morgan
Access Loan and Credit Data are offering $15,000 cash loans within 30 days, even to those with credit problems in the past or present.
"The reason we are doing this is because we know that many of you have been hurt by companies that make promises that they do not keep. We want you to know that we are not that way and we truly believe that you can not find a better program like this anywhere"
The fast cash need definitely exists. The fast cash industry is providing about $25 billion in short-term credit to millions of consumers experiencing cash flow problems between paydays. Unexpected, short term financial emergencies are a fact of life in today's economy and consumers often find it more feasible to take out a fast cash advance loan, rather than incur expense late fees, bounced check charges and other related financial problems.
"Large banks have limited hours and restrictive loan policies. People with bad credit or no credit that need cash quickly due to unexpected car repairs, medical bills and other events prefer using these alternative services. They are not asked about their credit records, and if they have a regular job they can get their payroll, government or personal check cashed, or get a short term loan quickly-for a fee. Most users gladly pay these fees for the more convenient hours and ease of use, but consumer groups and others criticize these services for the steep fees they may charge. At Access loan and credit data we guarantee If for any reason you do not receive up to $15,000 within 30 days, we will refund your money"
With bankruptcies and foreclosures on the rise, lenders are modifying their programs to continue to cater to the needs of the borrowers.
To find out more about the bad credit loans offered by Access Loan and Credit
Data please visit http://tinyurl.com/awuao
Peter Morgan is a 10+ year veteran in the IT business. He is an active Real
Estate Investor and a successful Internet business owner. http://tinyurl.com/awuao
Saturday, August 27, 2005
Bad Credit Loans - Finances for students
Students investing in their future need to manage their finances today
By Rachel Lane
With the A-level results coming out, the long wait for UK school leavers hoping to go to university will soon be over. All the hard work that has been put into achieving the grades required will now pay off and the fun and freedom that is student life can begin. This may have been the case in the past, but the notion that university life is socially and financially responsibility free is now lamentably outdated. These days, if you want to study beyond the age of 18, learning becomes very expensive.
According to the National Union of Students the typical cost of living expenses at a university outside London are around £8,600 a year for the essentials of food, rent, fuel, books and tuition. For students' studying in London they can expect to pay over £10,000 a year.
Barclays bank has calculated that currently the average graduate leaves university owing £13,501. Jeremy Law, the head of student and graduate banking at Barclays said, "students starting a three-year course this September could be graduating with debts of almost £20,000…graduates will find themselves with debts for years to come which may affect their ability to buy homes and invest in pensions…prince or pauper, these levels of debt may act as a deterrent to some people considering going to university."
With student debt growing every year - financial comparison sites like Moneynet are seeing an increased need for students to take control early and carefully plan for their future. Richard Brown, Chief Executive of Moneynet said “We all understand the importance of budgeting, but for students this can be especially difficult.”
HSBC has estimated that there will be a difference of around £6,400 between the average student’s income through loans and their total expenditure this year, making the skill of how to budget effectively a vitally important one to develop early on in a student’s life.
A spokesperson for the NUS said, "When you get your student loan it can seem like a lot of money. And for those who have never had to juggle lots of money before it can be difficult not to go out and blow it.”
There is help available from the NUS and other sources to students who get into financial difficulty. The NUS has set up advice centres which can provide support on money management as well as advice on how to access any other funds such as Higher Education Grants, Childcare Grants, Disabled Students' Allowance, Parents' Learning Allowance, as well as possible reduced rate loans, which may be available dependent on course subjects and individual circumstances.
An important issue for freshers to learn is that making careful financial choices early on, such as the right bank account, can help keep graduation debt to a minimum. By focusing on the interest rates, authorised and unauthorised overdraft borrowing rates, bank charges and ease of access to the money in their account, rather than the host of freebie sign-up gimmicks can make all the difference.
The NUS advises, “Students not to get a credit card as you will pay exactly the same high interest rates as everyone else”. In general, credit cards rarely carry genuinely privileged terms solely for students, however students can still utilise cheap forms of credit specifically devised for their circumstances, such as graduated interest-free overdrafts and low interest student loans, before resorting to a credit card if necessary.
Living at home will help to keep costs down, but for most students, this is frequently either not possible, or not desirable. The best way to make finances go further whilst at college is obviously to get some form of job that will fit in around studying. Although many employers do not like employees having irregular working hours due to external commitments, there are some employers who will veritably embrace students as they can fill in on a part-time basis to cover unsociable hours and holiday periods. Supermarkets, restaurants and bars are ideal for student work, as is working late shifts in large financial firms, or being a mystery shopper for research companies, or even becoming a film extra for £50 to £200 a day.
The real problem that needs to be in the minds of all students though is that any money that they borrow, whether it is through a loan or a credit card, must still be paid back at some point, even if that time may seem a long way off, and they expect to be earning a high salary. The truth is that there are more graduates leaving university every year, and there is increasing competition for what seems to be a dwindling graduate job market with diminishing pay rates. Students need to take control of their finances as early as possible in order to stop their finances taking control of them for a long time to come.
By Rachel Lane
With the A-level results coming out, the long wait for UK school leavers hoping to go to university will soon be over. All the hard work that has been put into achieving the grades required will now pay off and the fun and freedom that is student life can begin. This may have been the case in the past, but the notion that university life is socially and financially responsibility free is now lamentably outdated. These days, if you want to study beyond the age of 18, learning becomes very expensive.
According to the National Union of Students the typical cost of living expenses at a university outside London are around £8,600 a year for the essentials of food, rent, fuel, books and tuition. For students' studying in London they can expect to pay over £10,000 a year.
Barclays bank has calculated that currently the average graduate leaves university owing £13,501. Jeremy Law, the head of student and graduate banking at Barclays said, "students starting a three-year course this September could be graduating with debts of almost £20,000…graduates will find themselves with debts for years to come which may affect their ability to buy homes and invest in pensions…prince or pauper, these levels of debt may act as a deterrent to some people considering going to university."
With student debt growing every year - financial comparison sites like Moneynet are seeing an increased need for students to take control early and carefully plan for their future. Richard Brown, Chief Executive of Moneynet said “We all understand the importance of budgeting, but for students this can be especially difficult.”
HSBC has estimated that there will be a difference of around £6,400 between the average student’s income through loans and their total expenditure this year, making the skill of how to budget effectively a vitally important one to develop early on in a student’s life.
A spokesperson for the NUS said, "When you get your student loan it can seem like a lot of money. And for those who have never had to juggle lots of money before it can be difficult not to go out and blow it.”
There is help available from the NUS and other sources to students who get into financial difficulty. The NUS has set up advice centres which can provide support on money management as well as advice on how to access any other funds such as Higher Education Grants, Childcare Grants, Disabled Students' Allowance, Parents' Learning Allowance, as well as possible reduced rate loans, which may be available dependent on course subjects and individual circumstances.
An important issue for freshers to learn is that making careful financial choices early on, such as the right bank account, can help keep graduation debt to a minimum. By focusing on the interest rates, authorised and unauthorised overdraft borrowing rates, bank charges and ease of access to the money in their account, rather than the host of freebie sign-up gimmicks can make all the difference.
The NUS advises, “Students not to get a credit card as you will pay exactly the same high interest rates as everyone else”. In general, credit cards rarely carry genuinely privileged terms solely for students, however students can still utilise cheap forms of credit specifically devised for their circumstances, such as graduated interest-free overdrafts and low interest student loans, before resorting to a credit card if necessary.
Living at home will help to keep costs down, but for most students, this is frequently either not possible, or not desirable. The best way to make finances go further whilst at college is obviously to get some form of job that will fit in around studying. Although many employers do not like employees having irregular working hours due to external commitments, there are some employers who will veritably embrace students as they can fill in on a part-time basis to cover unsociable hours and holiday periods. Supermarkets, restaurants and bars are ideal for student work, as is working late shifts in large financial firms, or being a mystery shopper for research companies, or even becoming a film extra for £50 to £200 a day.
The real problem that needs to be in the minds of all students though is that any money that they borrow, whether it is through a loan or a credit card, must still be paid back at some point, even if that time may seem a long way off, and they expect to be earning a high salary. The truth is that there are more graduates leaving university every year, and there is increasing competition for what seems to be a dwindling graduate job market with diminishing pay rates. Students need to take control of their finances as early as possible in order to stop their finances taking control of them for a long time to come.
Thursday, August 25, 2005
Bad Credit Loans - Signature Loans
Signature Loans: A Signature Can Relieve Stress Of No Collateral And Bad Credit
By Amanda Thompson
The dynamics of loans borrowing procedure has brought new ways of borrowing in the forefront. Signature loans are remote from traditional forms of loans borrowing which requires collateral to be placed as the guarantee of the loan borrowed. Signature loans are provided entirely on the receipt of a signed activation letter. Therefore, you do not need a co-signer or collateral for it. Signature loans also have another name for them - character loans.
Signature loans with bad credit can be applied for any purpose. Student college loans, home remodelling, dream vacation, debt consolidation - all can be funded by signature loans. The maximum amount on a signature loan is £10,000. Loan lenders can offer you a loan amount of £15,000, if your circumstances concur with the requirements. The loan amount also depends on the borrower’s ability to repay. The term for signature loans is usually 60 months.
Signature loans are offered for a specific purpose. Signature loans can offer excellent aid for the purpose of education. Signature loans for students can offer financial funding to meet the increasing cost of education. Signature loans for student can be combined with Federal Stafford loans, if they need additional money. This can prove to be a low cost alternative. Signature loans with bad credit are available to graduates, undergraduates and graduate in health care.
Signature loans are usually provided keeping in mind good credit history. An unblemished credit history with a positive credit report will be the leading contender for signature loans. Signature loans simply require a signature. A good credit history will ensure you get the loan with no collateral. Business which have good credit and generate profits can easily file for signature loans. Also, if a company can demonstrate good management skills, they can access a signature loan. Getting a signature loan would add to your good credit. Your collaborators and your suppliers would deduce your financial well being from the fact that the loan lender has supplied you the loan simply on your signature.
Good credit can open numerous gates for signature loans. However, that does not mean bad credit signature loans are not possible. Signature loans are a good option, even if you have bad credit. Bad credit, everywhere, is associated with higher interest rates. Higher interest rates usually increase the pressure on your financial situation. But with considerable planning and thinking, bad credit signature loans can and are known to solve many financial impediments. Any bad credit including bad credit signature loans also improve your credit standing. When you pay your debt on time, it will show in your credit report. This is what is required to improve your credit status.
With bad credit signature loan, the first step to know where you stand financially. Make realistic goals with respect to debt. So that you can actually achieve these goals. If your debt condition is alarming, talk to credit managing agencies for help. You can consolidate your debts with bad credit signature loans. Make short term or long term plans depending on your financial situation. This will guarantee that your bad credit signature loans borrowing is a success. Ensure that you make bad credit signature loans payment on time. Otherwise your debt condition will deteriorate and you will find you are further slipped into debt.
Signature loans are becoming popular by the hour and have increased a lot over the years. Signature loans being unsecured take away the burden of having collateral to get a loan. But the fact that you can get cash on your hand may tempt you to make some unnecessary expenses. If you are taking a signature loan with good or bad credit try not to forget that it is a debt. You may get it easily but still it needs to be repaid. But instead of making signature loan an added burden, make it the basis of a strong financial future.
Amanda Thompson holds a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from CPIT and has completed her master’s in Business Administration from IGNOU. She is as cautious about her finances as any person reading this is. She is working as financial consultant for chanceforloans .To find a Personal loans,bad credit loans,Debt consolidation,home equity loans at cheap rates that best suits your needs visit http://www.chanceforloans.co.uk
By Amanda Thompson
The dynamics of loans borrowing procedure has brought new ways of borrowing in the forefront. Signature loans are remote from traditional forms of loans borrowing which requires collateral to be placed as the guarantee of the loan borrowed. Signature loans are provided entirely on the receipt of a signed activation letter. Therefore, you do not need a co-signer or collateral for it. Signature loans also have another name for them - character loans.
Signature loans with bad credit can be applied for any purpose. Student college loans, home remodelling, dream vacation, debt consolidation - all can be funded by signature loans. The maximum amount on a signature loan is £10,000. Loan lenders can offer you a loan amount of £15,000, if your circumstances concur with the requirements. The loan amount also depends on the borrower’s ability to repay. The term for signature loans is usually 60 months.
Signature loans are offered for a specific purpose. Signature loans can offer excellent aid for the purpose of education. Signature loans for students can offer financial funding to meet the increasing cost of education. Signature loans for student can be combined with Federal Stafford loans, if they need additional money. This can prove to be a low cost alternative. Signature loans with bad credit are available to graduates, undergraduates and graduate in health care.
Signature loans are usually provided keeping in mind good credit history. An unblemished credit history with a positive credit report will be the leading contender for signature loans. Signature loans simply require a signature. A good credit history will ensure you get the loan with no collateral. Business which have good credit and generate profits can easily file for signature loans. Also, if a company can demonstrate good management skills, they can access a signature loan. Getting a signature loan would add to your good credit. Your collaborators and your suppliers would deduce your financial well being from the fact that the loan lender has supplied you the loan simply on your signature.
Good credit can open numerous gates for signature loans. However, that does not mean bad credit signature loans are not possible. Signature loans are a good option, even if you have bad credit. Bad credit, everywhere, is associated with higher interest rates. Higher interest rates usually increase the pressure on your financial situation. But with considerable planning and thinking, bad credit signature loans can and are known to solve many financial impediments. Any bad credit including bad credit signature loans also improve your credit standing. When you pay your debt on time, it will show in your credit report. This is what is required to improve your credit status.
With bad credit signature loan, the first step to know where you stand financially. Make realistic goals with respect to debt. So that you can actually achieve these goals. If your debt condition is alarming, talk to credit managing agencies for help. You can consolidate your debts with bad credit signature loans. Make short term or long term plans depending on your financial situation. This will guarantee that your bad credit signature loans borrowing is a success. Ensure that you make bad credit signature loans payment on time. Otherwise your debt condition will deteriorate and you will find you are further slipped into debt.
Signature loans are becoming popular by the hour and have increased a lot over the years. Signature loans being unsecured take away the burden of having collateral to get a loan. But the fact that you can get cash on your hand may tempt you to make some unnecessary expenses. If you are taking a signature loan with good or bad credit try not to forget that it is a debt. You may get it easily but still it needs to be repaid. But instead of making signature loan an added burden, make it the basis of a strong financial future.
Amanda Thompson holds a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from CPIT and has completed her master’s in Business Administration from IGNOU. She is as cautious about her finances as any person reading this is. She is working as financial consultant for chanceforloans .To find a Personal loans,bad credit loans,Debt consolidation,home equity loans at cheap rates that best suits your needs visit http://www.chanceforloans.co.uk
Bad Credit Loans - Fixed rate mortgages
Understanding Fixed-rate Mortgages
by Chileshe Mwape
A fixed-rate mortgage is a mortgage on which the interest rate is set for the term of the loan. Your interest rate stays the same for the term of the mortgage or for a specified period of time. Most people use a fixed-rate mortgage. In fact, about 75 percent of all home mortgages have fixed rates. The main advantage of a fixed-rate mortgage is that you always know exactly how much your mortgage payment will be, and you can plan for it.
A Fixed Rate mortgage will offer you the security of knowing that your mortgage interest rate will not change during the term of your fixed rate. For example, a lender can offer a 30-year fixed loan to a homebuyer at a 6.5% interest rate. The loan is locked in to the 6.5% interest rate, even if the market interest rate rises to 8.0%. Conversely, if the market interest rate decreases to 4.5%, you will continue to pay the 6.5% interest rate. A Fixed-Rate Mortgage applies the same interest rate toward monthly loan payments for the life of the loan.
Features:
- Straightforward and easier to understand than Adjustable Rate Mortgages (ARMs).
- More secure for the buyer and very popular with first-time home buyers.
- Ideal for anyone who likes to budget monthly expenses and plans to keep their home for several years.
- Since the risk to the lender is higher, fixed-rate mortgages generally have higher interest rates than Adjustable Rate Mortgages (ARMs).
- Tend to have higher initial monthly payments compared to those of adjustable rate mortgages.
- Fixed-rate mortgages are less flexibility than adjustable rate mortgages.
With adjustable rate mortgages the interest rate is not fixed, but changes during the life of the loan in line with movements in an index rate. The advantage of an Adjustable Rate Mortgage is that you may be able to afford a more expensive home because your initial interest rate will be lower. In a fixed-rate mortgage, your interest rate stays the same for the term of the mortgage.
Copyright © 2005.
Chileshe Mwape writes for The Secured Personal Loans Website at: http://www.secured-personal-loan.org.uk/ and he’s also a regular contributor to the Fixed-rate Mortgages blog at http://www.fixed-rate-mortgages.blogspot.com/
by Chileshe Mwape
A fixed-rate mortgage is a mortgage on which the interest rate is set for the term of the loan. Your interest rate stays the same for the term of the mortgage or for a specified period of time. Most people use a fixed-rate mortgage. In fact, about 75 percent of all home mortgages have fixed rates. The main advantage of a fixed-rate mortgage is that you always know exactly how much your mortgage payment will be, and you can plan for it.
A Fixed Rate mortgage will offer you the security of knowing that your mortgage interest rate will not change during the term of your fixed rate. For example, a lender can offer a 30-year fixed loan to a homebuyer at a 6.5% interest rate. The loan is locked in to the 6.5% interest rate, even if the market interest rate rises to 8.0%. Conversely, if the market interest rate decreases to 4.5%, you will continue to pay the 6.5% interest rate. A Fixed-Rate Mortgage applies the same interest rate toward monthly loan payments for the life of the loan.
Features:
- Straightforward and easier to understand than Adjustable Rate Mortgages (ARMs).
- More secure for the buyer and very popular with first-time home buyers.
- Ideal for anyone who likes to budget monthly expenses and plans to keep their home for several years.
- Since the risk to the lender is higher, fixed-rate mortgages generally have higher interest rates than Adjustable Rate Mortgages (ARMs).
- Tend to have higher initial monthly payments compared to those of adjustable rate mortgages.
- Fixed-rate mortgages are less flexibility than adjustable rate mortgages.
With adjustable rate mortgages the interest rate is not fixed, but changes during the life of the loan in line with movements in an index rate. The advantage of an Adjustable Rate Mortgage is that you may be able to afford a more expensive home because your initial interest rate will be lower. In a fixed-rate mortgage, your interest rate stays the same for the term of the mortgage.
Copyright © 2005.
Chileshe Mwape writes for The Secured Personal Loans Website at: http://www.secured-personal-loan.org.uk/ and he’s also a regular contributor to the Fixed-rate Mortgages blog at http://www.fixed-rate-mortgages.blogspot.com/
Sunday, August 21, 2005
Bad Credit Loans - debit or credit
Debit or Credit? Which is Better?
A comparison of debit cards and credit cards.
By Rebecca Lindsey, CardRatings.com Senior Staff Write
About a year or two ago, I received a letter and a brand new ATM card from my bank. The letter bragged about the new and improved card that could now act as a debit card. So I exchanged the old card for the new one and tore up the letter before throwing it in the trash. Ever since, I have utilized the new card for--(tada!)--ATM transactions. To be honest, I didn’t give the debit option a second thought.
I suspect that there are many people like me who know they have an option to use a debit card, but don’t take advantage of it because they have a lack of knowledge or interest, or simply are in the habit of writing checks. While checks, ATM cards, and credit cards are fairly self-explanatory, many people fail to see much difference between a credit card and a debit card. So the questions are, is there a significant difference, and is one better than the other?
What's the Difference?
Credit. Every time you use a credit card, you are actually borrowing money that is made available to you by a bank or other financial institution. The institution pays the debt to the vendor, and in turn, you pay the money back to the institution. By signing up for a credit card, you agree to pay back the money that you borrowed, in addition to any interest drawn on the amount you borrowed.
Debit. Odds are, you have a debit card in your wallet or purse right now, since many ATM cards are programmed to have debit options. Issued by your bank, debit cards take funds directly from the money that you have in your bank account--in a sense acting like a check, just faster. With a debit card, you don’t have to carry cash or checks, and it is very convenient to shop at a variety of places including gas stations, grocery stores, restaurants, and retail stores. They provide instant access to your money and are accepted worldwide.
Debit cards are used much like credit cards, meaning that the store you are shopping at ‘swipes’ them, and you are normally given the option of signing your receipt instead of using a required PIN number (you can enter your PIN number if your prefer). You also typically don’t have to show a picture ID.
Which is Better?
Maybe you still don’t see much of a difference, besides where the money comes from and when you have to pay up. So which one is better to use? It depends upon how careful you are with your card and what you are using the card for.
The features that make debit cards convenient--instant access to your money, lack of a required PIN number, and not having to drag out your photo ID when you use it--make fraud that much easier. Unless reported quickly, theft of your debit card can quickly devastate your bank account. This is where you begin to see a difference between credit and debit cards. Here’s why:
Credit card companies are held to strict liability laws; the law limits consumer liability for credit card fraud to $50 and many credit cards, including all Visa and MasterCard credit cards, now have zero liability policies (your liability for unauthorized transactions is $0). In addition, if you notice suspicious charges on your credit card statement such as double billing or an incorrect charge, the credit card company is obligated to investigate if you send in a written request within 60 days.
For debit card fraud, your liability is $50 if you notify the bank within two days of noticing the fraudulent charges. After two days, your liability increases to $500, and up to your entire account balance after 60 days. So if you notice that your card is missing within two days and report it, you can only be made to pay up to $50. However if you report the theft after two days, you can be held responsible for paying for purchases or charges that you didn’t make. Although many banks have started to implement voluntary plans to limit customer’s liability to $50, there is no federal law regarding this issue. Finally, Visa and MasterCard do extend limited zero liability protection to debit cards branded with the Visa or MasterCard logo, but this protection has certain restrictions.
The key to protecting yourself when you suspect that your stuff has been stolen is acting fast! The Federal Trade Commission offers an excellent resource that can help you respond quickly in case your wallet or purse is stolen.
In addition to stricter liability laws, credit cards also offer more consumer protection on purchases made. Use credit cards for very large or fragile purchases, and for objects that will be delivered to your home after the purchase; this gives you added insurance in case the purchase is damaged in route.
One final advantage of credit cards is that they are a great tool for consumers that are seeking to establish or reestablish an attractive credit history. Responsible credit card usage can improve one’s credit rating. Credit cards typically report account activity to at least one of the three major credit bureaus on a monthly basis. An attractive credit rating will improve your chances of obtaining favorable credit terms (low interest rates, low fees, etc.). for automobile loans, mortgages, personal loans, etc.
Discipline Yourself
One pitfall that many consumers fall into is not keeping up with their debit transactions. This is like writing checks and not recording your purchases--you may end up trying to spend money that you don’t have! If you’re not good at recording your check transactions, you will need to discipline yourself to keep up with your transaction receipts.
Probably the main thing to remember if you are using a debit card regularly is that it’s not just a card; it’s ready access to your money. Be as careful with it as you would with your wallet if it had the contents of your entire bank account in it. The National Consumers League is a good resource if you would like even more information on debit cards. It offers information and tips for responsible use of debit cards, including record keeping and theft report.
Now that I have learned all about debit, maybe I’ll break my habit and dare to use my debit card now. But I’ll probably take my checkbook just in case!
A comparison of debit cards and credit cards.
By Rebecca Lindsey, CardRatings.com Senior Staff Write
About a year or two ago, I received a letter and a brand new ATM card from my bank. The letter bragged about the new and improved card that could now act as a debit card. So I exchanged the old card for the new one and tore up the letter before throwing it in the trash. Ever since, I have utilized the new card for--(tada!)--ATM transactions. To be honest, I didn’t give the debit option a second thought.
I suspect that there are many people like me who know they have an option to use a debit card, but don’t take advantage of it because they have a lack of knowledge or interest, or simply are in the habit of writing checks. While checks, ATM cards, and credit cards are fairly self-explanatory, many people fail to see much difference between a credit card and a debit card. So the questions are, is there a significant difference, and is one better than the other?
What's the Difference?
Credit. Every time you use a credit card, you are actually borrowing money that is made available to you by a bank or other financial institution. The institution pays the debt to the vendor, and in turn, you pay the money back to the institution. By signing up for a credit card, you agree to pay back the money that you borrowed, in addition to any interest drawn on the amount you borrowed.
Debit. Odds are, you have a debit card in your wallet or purse right now, since many ATM cards are programmed to have debit options. Issued by your bank, debit cards take funds directly from the money that you have in your bank account--in a sense acting like a check, just faster. With a debit card, you don’t have to carry cash or checks, and it is very convenient to shop at a variety of places including gas stations, grocery stores, restaurants, and retail stores. They provide instant access to your money and are accepted worldwide.
Debit cards are used much like credit cards, meaning that the store you are shopping at ‘swipes’ them, and you are normally given the option of signing your receipt instead of using a required PIN number (you can enter your PIN number if your prefer). You also typically don’t have to show a picture ID.
Which is Better?
Maybe you still don’t see much of a difference, besides where the money comes from and when you have to pay up. So which one is better to use? It depends upon how careful you are with your card and what you are using the card for.
The features that make debit cards convenient--instant access to your money, lack of a required PIN number, and not having to drag out your photo ID when you use it--make fraud that much easier. Unless reported quickly, theft of your debit card can quickly devastate your bank account. This is where you begin to see a difference between credit and debit cards. Here’s why:
Credit card companies are held to strict liability laws; the law limits consumer liability for credit card fraud to $50 and many credit cards, including all Visa and MasterCard credit cards, now have zero liability policies (your liability for unauthorized transactions is $0). In addition, if you notice suspicious charges on your credit card statement such as double billing or an incorrect charge, the credit card company is obligated to investigate if you send in a written request within 60 days.
For debit card fraud, your liability is $50 if you notify the bank within two days of noticing the fraudulent charges. After two days, your liability increases to $500, and up to your entire account balance after 60 days. So if you notice that your card is missing within two days and report it, you can only be made to pay up to $50. However if you report the theft after two days, you can be held responsible for paying for purchases or charges that you didn’t make. Although many banks have started to implement voluntary plans to limit customer’s liability to $50, there is no federal law regarding this issue. Finally, Visa and MasterCard do extend limited zero liability protection to debit cards branded with the Visa or MasterCard logo, but this protection has certain restrictions.
The key to protecting yourself when you suspect that your stuff has been stolen is acting fast! The Federal Trade Commission offers an excellent resource that can help you respond quickly in case your wallet or purse is stolen.
In addition to stricter liability laws, credit cards also offer more consumer protection on purchases made. Use credit cards for very large or fragile purchases, and for objects that will be delivered to your home after the purchase; this gives you added insurance in case the purchase is damaged in route.
One final advantage of credit cards is that they are a great tool for consumers that are seeking to establish or reestablish an attractive credit history. Responsible credit card usage can improve one’s credit rating. Credit cards typically report account activity to at least one of the three major credit bureaus on a monthly basis. An attractive credit rating will improve your chances of obtaining favorable credit terms (low interest rates, low fees, etc.). for automobile loans, mortgages, personal loans, etc.
Discipline Yourself
One pitfall that many consumers fall into is not keeping up with their debit transactions. This is like writing checks and not recording your purchases--you may end up trying to spend money that you don’t have! If you’re not good at recording your check transactions, you will need to discipline yourself to keep up with your transaction receipts.
Probably the main thing to remember if you are using a debit card regularly is that it’s not just a card; it’s ready access to your money. Be as careful with it as you would with your wallet if it had the contents of your entire bank account in it. The National Consumers League is a good resource if you would like even more information on debit cards. It offers information and tips for responsible use of debit cards, including record keeping and theft report.
Now that I have learned all about debit, maybe I’ll break my habit and dare to use my debit card now. But I’ll probably take my checkbook just in case!
Saturday, August 20, 2005
Bad Credit Loans - Poverty to Riches
You CAN start with empty pockets and piles of bills and build a steady income, even wealth, via the internet. It's a long, hard road though, so it's best to prepare and take along a good map.
First, a comparison to building an offline, bricks-and-mortar business, just for perspective. If you're young, you might educate yourself in your field, go to work for someone else, and build your experience, reputation and equity. Then you could take out a business start-up loan, rent a storefront, buy all the necessary equipment, tools, furniture and merchandise, buy advertising -- and wait years to work your way out of debt and make a profit.
If you aren't young, have a family and all the expenses and debts that go with that,and are not making enough money working for someone else to get ahead, you don't have the same options. Night school, years of part-time education and training, with your creditors hounding you every step of the way...sound familiar?
So you turn on your computer and wonder...wish...that one of those promises of quick riches could be true for you. I wouldn't go there if I were you.
Here are some first steps to getting started as an internet entrepreneur:
1. Honest self-assessment: There are certain qualities necessary to being self-employed. If you can honestly say that you are self-disciplined, self-motivated, determined, self-confident, patient, persevering and maybe even a bit stubborn, you have what it takes.
2. Research: You need to spend some time researching the company, the products, and the people already working the business. Is the company solid and dependable, are the company executives accessible and responsive, are the products of high desirability and quality, and maybe most importantly, is there experienced, successful, and friendly team support?
3. Support: Surround yourself with cheerleaders, mentors, knowledge, and inspiration, both on- and offline. Your family, the company, and others who have succeeded where you are treading for the first time, should all be available to you. You should never feel that you're all alone.
4. Infrastructure: Decide what you need: computer,printer, fax, phone; whatever your chosen business requires. Create an office space that suits your lifestyle and work needs. A corner of the living room can function well if you can work while the kids are at school or if their noise doesn't bother you, but evening work may require a separate room. Don't put your office in the bedroom if you work evenings and your spouse goes to bed early. You need your family's support, not their animosity!
5. Realism: It's tempting to try a business that makes promises it can't keep. Many tell you that one person or a few make thousands of dollars a week and so can you. None of them will point out that maybe you will be one of thousands who quit before they make a cent. "Put money in your pocket today!" Yes, but will any go in tomorrow?
Accept the fact that any business worth its salt can take time. Maybe you can begin making money in a couple months, or maybe a year. You have to be able to maintain life as you know it for however long it takes. Understand that it won't be a steady climb to the top from where you are today; the path will go up and down.
6. Selling someone else's product or your own: Obviously, the big money is in selling your own product. Selling for another company is a great way to get your feet wet in internet commerce, however. At first you may feel like you're floundering in an unfathomable sea of information, but at some point will come the knowledge that you're "getting it." Working for a good company will leave you knowing that you have what it takes to do it on your own, if you choose.
7. Business plan: This keeps you focused, helps you develop goals, strategies and work plans; and aids in evaluating your results. It can include contingency plans, and is never written in stone. As you learn and your business develops, the plan will evolve too.
Now that you've got the road map...take that first step! Your future begins today!
Glenn Beach is a poet, writer and home business entrepreneur in Nova Scotia, Canada. Free newsletter, more articles, and business start-up info at: http://www.work-at-home-business-opportunity-canada.com
First, a comparison to building an offline, bricks-and-mortar business, just for perspective. If you're young, you might educate yourself in your field, go to work for someone else, and build your experience, reputation and equity. Then you could take out a business start-up loan, rent a storefront, buy all the necessary equipment, tools, furniture and merchandise, buy advertising -- and wait years to work your way out of debt and make a profit.
If you aren't young, have a family and all the expenses and debts that go with that,and are not making enough money working for someone else to get ahead, you don't have the same options. Night school, years of part-time education and training, with your creditors hounding you every step of the way...sound familiar?
So you turn on your computer and wonder...wish...that one of those promises of quick riches could be true for you. I wouldn't go there if I were you.
Here are some first steps to getting started as an internet entrepreneur:
1. Honest self-assessment: There are certain qualities necessary to being self-employed. If you can honestly say that you are self-disciplined, self-motivated, determined, self-confident, patient, persevering and maybe even a bit stubborn, you have what it takes.
2. Research: You need to spend some time researching the company, the products, and the people already working the business. Is the company solid and dependable, are the company executives accessible and responsive, are the products of high desirability and quality, and maybe most importantly, is there experienced, successful, and friendly team support?
3. Support: Surround yourself with cheerleaders, mentors, knowledge, and inspiration, both on- and offline. Your family, the company, and others who have succeeded where you are treading for the first time, should all be available to you. You should never feel that you're all alone.
4. Infrastructure: Decide what you need: computer,printer, fax, phone; whatever your chosen business requires. Create an office space that suits your lifestyle and work needs. A corner of the living room can function well if you can work while the kids are at school or if their noise doesn't bother you, but evening work may require a separate room. Don't put your office in the bedroom if you work evenings and your spouse goes to bed early. You need your family's support, not their animosity!
5. Realism: It's tempting to try a business that makes promises it can't keep. Many tell you that one person or a few make thousands of dollars a week and so can you. None of them will point out that maybe you will be one of thousands who quit before they make a cent. "Put money in your pocket today!" Yes, but will any go in tomorrow?
Accept the fact that any business worth its salt can take time. Maybe you can begin making money in a couple months, or maybe a year. You have to be able to maintain life as you know it for however long it takes. Understand that it won't be a steady climb to the top from where you are today; the path will go up and down.
6. Selling someone else's product or your own: Obviously, the big money is in selling your own product. Selling for another company is a great way to get your feet wet in internet commerce, however. At first you may feel like you're floundering in an unfathomable sea of information, but at some point will come the knowledge that you're "getting it." Working for a good company will leave you knowing that you have what it takes to do it on your own, if you choose.
7. Business plan: This keeps you focused, helps you develop goals, strategies and work plans; and aids in evaluating your results. It can include contingency plans, and is never written in stone. As you learn and your business develops, the plan will evolve too.
Now that you've got the road map...take that first step! Your future begins today!
Glenn Beach is a poet, writer and home business entrepreneur in Nova Scotia, Canada. Free newsletter, more articles, and business start-up info at: http://www.work-at-home-business-opportunity-canada.com
Bad credit loans - Repair your credit rating the right way
How to Repair a Bad Credit Rating ... The Right Way!
If you have a bad credit rating, then you might find that your ability to get financing, loans, and even some jobs is greatly diminished.
Once you have a bad credit rating, it might seem like there's nothing that you can do about it… but you don't have to believe that. It's not as difficult as you might think to get by with a bad credit rating; with a little work and time you can even repair it! Of course, before you do that it's important to realize exactly what a credit rating is.
Every time a lender or other creditor makes a report concerning your payment history to them, this report affects your credit score.
Your credit score is a numerical indication of the positive and negative reports that you've received from creditors and lenders; if the number is high then you have a good credit rating, and if it's low then you have a bad credit rating.
Basic credit repair
Get organized! Make a folder for all your correspondence offline and online. You will have to do some snail mailing but in most cases you can work your repair online.
In the U.S. a 630 rating will qualify you for a mortgage. You can still get credit with a lower score but not at a premium interest rate.
The important thing to do is obtain your credit report and study it. Mark all the negative items.
Most unsecured credit, mostly credit cards, can stay on your report for 7 years. If you find any over that, write to the credit bureau and ask them to remove it. They are required by law to research and report back within 30 days.
If they don't, you can threaten them with a letter to the Better Business Bureau or
Federal Trade Commission.
Find any other negative items and determine they are correct. If not, write the bureau and tell them its not your debt.
Even if you aren't sure, ask the credit bureaus to investigate. Many times, they will not be able to verify the debt because the credit card company, auto loan company or other creditor won't get back them within 30 days (required by Fair Credit Act).
Dan is the owner of Repair Your Credit...The Right Way!. For the contact information on credit bureaus as well as samples of letters to send to them, go to:
http://www.repair-credit-right.com
If you have a bad credit rating, then you might find that your ability to get financing, loans, and even some jobs is greatly diminished.
Once you have a bad credit rating, it might seem like there's nothing that you can do about it… but you don't have to believe that. It's not as difficult as you might think to get by with a bad credit rating; with a little work and time you can even repair it! Of course, before you do that it's important to realize exactly what a credit rating is.
Every time a lender or other creditor makes a report concerning your payment history to them, this report affects your credit score.
Your credit score is a numerical indication of the positive and negative reports that you've received from creditors and lenders; if the number is high then you have a good credit rating, and if it's low then you have a bad credit rating.
Basic credit repair
Get organized! Make a folder for all your correspondence offline and online. You will have to do some snail mailing but in most cases you can work your repair online.
In the U.S. a 630 rating will qualify you for a mortgage. You can still get credit with a lower score but not at a premium interest rate.
The important thing to do is obtain your credit report and study it. Mark all the negative items.
Most unsecured credit, mostly credit cards, can stay on your report for 7 years. If you find any over that, write to the credit bureau and ask them to remove it. They are required by law to research and report back within 30 days.
If they don't, you can threaten them with a letter to the Better Business Bureau or
Federal Trade Commission.
Find any other negative items and determine they are correct. If not, write the bureau and tell them its not your debt.
Even if you aren't sure, ask the credit bureaus to investigate. Many times, they will not be able to verify the debt because the credit card company, auto loan company or other creditor won't get back them within 30 days (required by Fair Credit Act).
Dan is the owner of Repair Your Credit...The Right Way!. For the contact information on credit bureaus as well as samples of letters to send to them, go to:
http://www.repair-credit-right.com
Bad credit loans- declined credit card application
You may already have 2 or more credit cards in your purse or wallet and you have just applied for a third and been declined. This can be very frustrating considering you pay off your other credit cards regularly and you are continually having your credit limit raised.
This is a common problem and the only way to find out more is by getting a copy of your Credit Report. Equifax and Experian are the two main credit reference companies in the UK and hold credit details of over 40 million people. Your file includes information about all your credit cards, loans, mortgages, bank account details, as well as any adverse bill payments or County Court Judgements against you.
When a Credit Provider asses your credit risk they will look at your Credit Report and make a decision based on your scoring. Your score is based on several factors. You may get more points for living in your address for more than 3 years or for having a home telephone, be married or for having children. Your age and profession can also help your score. The more points you have on your file the more chance you have of being approved for credit. The credit provider will use all this information coupled with your credit history to come to a decision. A Credit Providers scoring system is sensitive information so it’s not easy to understand why you were refused credit.
By having access to your Credit Report you will be able to get a sense of why you possibly have not been granted Credit. Another important point is to check and see that everything on your report is correct. You are allowed to make corrections to your file. As most people don’t get their Credit Report they never know what’s on it or why they are being refused credit. If you fell behind in some of your bill payments you are also allowed to add a note explaining why you did. This may also improve your score.
With all the 0% credit cards on offer its worth mentioning that if you are continuously applying for these cards you could be damaging your credit score. The number of times you apply within a 6 to 12 month period can have an adverse effect on your score. If you have been refused credit, don’t just move on to the next lender, find out as much as possible as to why it was declined before applying somewhere else.
You can find out more about your Credit Report at Experian and Equifax. It costs £2 for a basic report.
Grant Marwick is a freelance writer and owner of http://www.only-credit-cards.co.uk where you will find advice and more articles on Low interest Credit Cards and Credit Reports.
This is a common problem and the only way to find out more is by getting a copy of your Credit Report. Equifax and Experian are the two main credit reference companies in the UK and hold credit details of over 40 million people. Your file includes information about all your credit cards, loans, mortgages, bank account details, as well as any adverse bill payments or County Court Judgements against you.
When a Credit Provider asses your credit risk they will look at your Credit Report and make a decision based on your scoring. Your score is based on several factors. You may get more points for living in your address for more than 3 years or for having a home telephone, be married or for having children. Your age and profession can also help your score. The more points you have on your file the more chance you have of being approved for credit. The credit provider will use all this information coupled with your credit history to come to a decision. A Credit Providers scoring system is sensitive information so it’s not easy to understand why you were refused credit.
By having access to your Credit Report you will be able to get a sense of why you possibly have not been granted Credit. Another important point is to check and see that everything on your report is correct. You are allowed to make corrections to your file. As most people don’t get their Credit Report they never know what’s on it or why they are being refused credit. If you fell behind in some of your bill payments you are also allowed to add a note explaining why you did. This may also improve your score.
With all the 0% credit cards on offer its worth mentioning that if you are continuously applying for these cards you could be damaging your credit score. The number of times you apply within a 6 to 12 month period can have an adverse effect on your score. If you have been refused credit, don’t just move on to the next lender, find out as much as possible as to why it was declined before applying somewhere else.
You can find out more about your Credit Report at Experian and Equifax. It costs £2 for a basic report.
Grant Marwick is a freelance writer and owner of http://www.only-credit-cards.co.uk where you will find advice and more articles on Low interest Credit Cards and Credit Reports.
Thursday, August 18, 2005
ValuableContent.com - Writers & Publishers Directory
Home Loans – Repair Credit Errors in Three Days!
Most consumers are aware that a history of paying bills late or not at all can hurt one’s ability to obtain a loan. All financial transactions are recorded by three credit bureaus and offered to lenders upon request in the form of a credit report. That report contains the all-important credit score, which determines whether or not the borrower is a good risk for a loan. If you have a poor payment history, you could be out of luck when you try to obtain a loan. The same applies if there are errors on your credit report that suggest that you may pose a greater risk to the lender than you really do. Traditionally, it has taken months to straighten out problems on a credit report, and borrowers who are eager to close on a mortgage or home equity loan may not have months to wait. What can be done? A relatively new mortgage-related product known as rapid rescoring can, in some instances, fix problems on a credit report in as little as three days.
We have covered the topic of credit repair in previous articles. The notion that there are companies that can fix bad credit reports is a myth. If you have a history of not paying your bills, no company you can hire can make that particular problem go away. The only way to fix that is to become responsible, pay your bills and retire your credit card balances. On the other hand, if you find yourself ready to buy a home and suddenly discover that there is an error on your credit report that will impair your ability to qualify for a loan or your ability to obtain a good interest rate, there may be a solution. Companies that specialize in rapid rescoring work with both lenders and the credit bureaus to expedite the process of removing errors from a credit report. It’s not magic; you will need to provide written proof that the error is legitimate, but once you submit it to your lender, they can pass it on to the rescoring company, who will handle the rest of the transaction. The process is often completed in three business days, although it can sometimes take as long as two weeks. Still, that’s a tremendous improvement over the one to three months it may have taken in the past.
Rapid rescoring has turned out to be a lucrative business for the companies that specialize in it, and lenders love it because it helps more buyers qualify for loans. While it is a nice service to have available, most consumers would be better off preventing such errors in the first place. The best way to do that is to regularly check your credit report for errors and keep it up to date. You can obtain a copy for free from the free credit report Website. In a pinch, however, rapid rescoring has been a tremendous last-minute tool for saving borrowers from being turned away from the house of their dreams.
©Copyright 2005 by Retro Marketing. Charles Essmeier is the owner of Retro Marketing, a firm devoted to informational Websites, including End-Your-Debt.com, a Website devoted to debt consolidation and credit counseling information and HomeEquityHelp.net, a site devoted to information on mortgages and home equity loans.
Most consumers are aware that a history of paying bills late or not at all can hurt one’s ability to obtain a loan. All financial transactions are recorded by three credit bureaus and offered to lenders upon request in the form of a credit report. That report contains the all-important credit score, which determines whether or not the borrower is a good risk for a loan. If you have a poor payment history, you could be out of luck when you try to obtain a loan. The same applies if there are errors on your credit report that suggest that you may pose a greater risk to the lender than you really do. Traditionally, it has taken months to straighten out problems on a credit report, and borrowers who are eager to close on a mortgage or home equity loan may not have months to wait. What can be done? A relatively new mortgage-related product known as rapid rescoring can, in some instances, fix problems on a credit report in as little as three days.
We have covered the topic of credit repair in previous articles. The notion that there are companies that can fix bad credit reports is a myth. If you have a history of not paying your bills, no company you can hire can make that particular problem go away. The only way to fix that is to become responsible, pay your bills and retire your credit card balances. On the other hand, if you find yourself ready to buy a home and suddenly discover that there is an error on your credit report that will impair your ability to qualify for a loan or your ability to obtain a good interest rate, there may be a solution. Companies that specialize in rapid rescoring work with both lenders and the credit bureaus to expedite the process of removing errors from a credit report. It’s not magic; you will need to provide written proof that the error is legitimate, but once you submit it to your lender, they can pass it on to the rescoring company, who will handle the rest of the transaction. The process is often completed in three business days, although it can sometimes take as long as two weeks. Still, that’s a tremendous improvement over the one to three months it may have taken in the past.
Rapid rescoring has turned out to be a lucrative business for the companies that specialize in it, and lenders love it because it helps more buyers qualify for loans. While it is a nice service to have available, most consumers would be better off preventing such errors in the first place. The best way to do that is to regularly check your credit report for errors and keep it up to date. You can obtain a copy for free from the free credit report Website. In a pinch, however, rapid rescoring has been a tremendous last-minute tool for saving borrowers from being turned away from the house of their dreams.
©Copyright 2005 by Retro Marketing. Charles Essmeier is the owner of Retro Marketing, a firm devoted to informational Websites, including End-Your-Debt.com, a Website devoted to debt consolidation and credit counseling information and HomeEquityHelp.net, a site devoted to information on mortgages and home equity loans.
Common Questions
Common Questions: "Common Questions - Personal Loans - Bad Credit Personal Loans
We receive a wide variety of questions from individuals asking for more information about personal loans. Below are a few of the more frequently asked questions we obtain. If you require additional support, do not hesitate to Contact Us! Also, please examine our Loan Glossary for a few tips and helpful definitions to the terminology related with bad credit personal loans. "
Thursday, August 11, 2005
Bad Credit Loans:Is A Federal Debt Consolidation Loan Right For You?
The U.S. Government offers a plan that can help you manage your student loan debt with a Federal Direct Consolidation Loan.
Whether you're a recent graduate, midway into your career, still in school or in your grace period, a debt consolidation loan from the federal government may lessen the amount you need to repay, or increase the time that you have to pay off your current debt.
How can a federal debt consolidation loan help you pay off your debt? If you have student loans under several different programs, bringing them all together under one Direct Consolidation Loan can make your debts easier to manage.
By combining all of your loans into one, you're only responsible for making one payment to one lender - the U.S. Government. To help make the option of debt consolidation more attractive, there are four flexible payment plans available, including two that take your income and/or income expectations into account.
A Direct Consolidation Loan is available to help manage your student loan debt even if you're still in school or in your grace period. If you choose to consolidate all your debts into one before you finish school, you can lock in an interest rate that as much as .6% lower than if you attempt to refinance later.
For a better idea of how a Federal Direct Consolidation Loan can help lower your payment and help manage your debt, you can visit the Department of Education's web site and make use of their online debt calculator at https://loanconsolidation.ed.gov to estimate your projected monthly payment under the various plans.
Can a Federal Direct Consolidation Loan help you manage your debt?
There may be reasons why debt consolidation is not the right solution for you. If you're close to the end of your repayment term, for instance, it may not be worth the work to consolidate. Extending the life of your loan is likely to increase the amount you pay overall. If you can afford the higher monthly payments to pay it off sooner, you can save money in the long run.
If you're certain that a Federal Direct Consolidation Loan will be to your benefit, you still need to be eligible for the program. The eligibility guidelines can be found at loanconsolidation.ed.gove/borrower/beligible.html
In addition, the list of loans that are eligible for consolidation can be found here: loanconsolidation.ed.gov.borrower/bloans.html Which debt consolidation plan is the best one for you? Standard: The standard repayment plan is fixed-rate that runs for a maximum of ten years. The minimum payment is $50 monthly.
Extended Repayment Plan: A fixed rate plan with payments extending over the course of 12-30 years. Payments are a minimum of $50, and the life of the loan is dependent on the total amount of the debt. Graduated Repayment Plan:
Under the graduated plan, payments start low and increase, generally every two years. The length of the repayment period varies from 12 to 30 years.
Income Contingent Repayment Plan: The monthly payment is based on a borrower's annual adjusted gross income, family size and the total amount of direct loans. If your student loan debt is out of control, or if you just want to manage it more easily, visit loanconsolidation.ed.gov to see how the federal government can help you with a direct consolidation loan. more...
Start a Home Business
Whether you're a recent graduate, midway into your career, still in school or in your grace period, a debt consolidation loan from the federal government may lessen the amount you need to repay, or increase the time that you have to pay off your current debt.
How can a federal debt consolidation loan help you pay off your debt? If you have student loans under several different programs, bringing them all together under one Direct Consolidation Loan can make your debts easier to manage.
By combining all of your loans into one, you're only responsible for making one payment to one lender - the U.S. Government. To help make the option of debt consolidation more attractive, there are four flexible payment plans available, including two that take your income and/or income expectations into account.
A Direct Consolidation Loan is available to help manage your student loan debt even if you're still in school or in your grace period. If you choose to consolidate all your debts into one before you finish school, you can lock in an interest rate that as much as .6% lower than if you attempt to refinance later.
For a better idea of how a Federal Direct Consolidation Loan can help lower your payment and help manage your debt, you can visit the Department of Education's web site and make use of their online debt calculator at https://loanconsolidation.ed.gov to estimate your projected monthly payment under the various plans.
Can a Federal Direct Consolidation Loan help you manage your debt?
There may be reasons why debt consolidation is not the right solution for you. If you're close to the end of your repayment term, for instance, it may not be worth the work to consolidate. Extending the life of your loan is likely to increase the amount you pay overall. If you can afford the higher monthly payments to pay it off sooner, you can save money in the long run.
If you're certain that a Federal Direct Consolidation Loan will be to your benefit, you still need to be eligible for the program. The eligibility guidelines can be found at loanconsolidation.ed.gove/borrower/beligible.html
In addition, the list of loans that are eligible for consolidation can be found here: loanconsolidation.ed.gov.borrower/bloans.html Which debt consolidation plan is the best one for you? Standard: The standard repayment plan is fixed-rate that runs for a maximum of ten years. The minimum payment is $50 monthly.
Extended Repayment Plan: A fixed rate plan with payments extending over the course of 12-30 years. Payments are a minimum of $50, and the life of the loan is dependent on the total amount of the debt. Graduated Repayment Plan:
Under the graduated plan, payments start low and increase, generally every two years. The length of the repayment period varies from 12 to 30 years.
Income Contingent Repayment Plan: The monthly payment is based on a borrower's annual adjusted gross income, family size and the total amount of direct loans. If your student loan debt is out of control, or if you just want to manage it more easily, visit loanconsolidation.ed.gov to see how the federal government can help you with a direct consolidation loan. more...
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Bad Credit Loans:Why Use A Prepaid Credit Card?
Prepaid credit cards have been growing in popularity over the past several years. But despite the 'credit card' name, no credit is actually involved. Here's how they work.
When you use a standard credit card, you pay for the convenience of being able to purchase things without saving the money up first. The issuing bank is essentially lending money to you, and you repay it on a regular basis.
But with a prepaid credit card, there is no line of credit or loan. Instead, the user will make deposits to a bank account, and then use the card to withdraw that money for purchases.
Why would you use a prepaid credit card if you don't actually get any credit? A prepaid credit card is a good choice if you want to be able to make purchases online without taking the risk of giving unknown merchants your credit card information and access to your credit line.
Many people today are sensitive to online credit fraud, and this is one way around it. Be aware though, that many merchants that require monthly payments will not accept a prepaid card for purchases.
A prepaid credit card is also an excellent way to provide a weekly or monthly spending allowance to a child at college. The student has the convenience of being able to charge things on the card, and you can easily control the amount that's spent by the amount of the deposits you make to the account. This will go a long way in teaching them how to manage their money.
If you've decided that a prepaid credit card is the right choice for you, there are quite a few options available that can offer you varying benefits. Perhaps you're looking to repair or restore your credit. Maybe you want a way to give your away-from-home student a monthly allowance.
No matter what your reason, why not choose a prepaid credit card that allows you to earn income at the same time?
Prepaid Credit Cards That Help You Rebuild Your Credit Not every financial institution that issues stored value credit cards makes reports to credit agencies about your spending history. If part of your reason for applying for a prepaid card is to repair your credit history, make sure you choose a company that does.
There are also anumber of issuing companies that offer credit reporting as an add-on service for an additional fee. Prepaid Credit Cards That Pay You Back Some major financial institutions will offer you a prepaid credit card with an opportunity to make income. They offer a rebate on spending, or a referral program.
If you don't need to build your credit, and believe that your income through spending rebates and referrals will exceed theannual membership fees, then these types of cards might be a good choice for you.
What ever your reason for selecting a prepaid credit card, just make sure that you shop around to get the best deal, and that you check out the company to make certain that they are a reputable one. more...
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When you use a standard credit card, you pay for the convenience of being able to purchase things without saving the money up first. The issuing bank is essentially lending money to you, and you repay it on a regular basis.
But with a prepaid credit card, there is no line of credit or loan. Instead, the user will make deposits to a bank account, and then use the card to withdraw that money for purchases.
Why would you use a prepaid credit card if you don't actually get any credit? A prepaid credit card is a good choice if you want to be able to make purchases online without taking the risk of giving unknown merchants your credit card information and access to your credit line.
Many people today are sensitive to online credit fraud, and this is one way around it. Be aware though, that many merchants that require monthly payments will not accept a prepaid card for purchases.
A prepaid credit card is also an excellent way to provide a weekly or monthly spending allowance to a child at college. The student has the convenience of being able to charge things on the card, and you can easily control the amount that's spent by the amount of the deposits you make to the account. This will go a long way in teaching them how to manage their money.
If you've decided that a prepaid credit card is the right choice for you, there are quite a few options available that can offer you varying benefits. Perhaps you're looking to repair or restore your credit. Maybe you want a way to give your away-from-home student a monthly allowance.
No matter what your reason, why not choose a prepaid credit card that allows you to earn income at the same time?
Prepaid Credit Cards That Help You Rebuild Your Credit Not every financial institution that issues stored value credit cards makes reports to credit agencies about your spending history. If part of your reason for applying for a prepaid card is to repair your credit history, make sure you choose a company that does.
There are also anumber of issuing companies that offer credit reporting as an add-on service for an additional fee. Prepaid Credit Cards That Pay You Back Some major financial institutions will offer you a prepaid credit card with an opportunity to make income. They offer a rebate on spending, or a referral program.
If you don't need to build your credit, and believe that your income through spending rebates and referrals will exceed theannual membership fees, then these types of cards might be a good choice for you.
What ever your reason for selecting a prepaid credit card, just make sure that you shop around to get the best deal, and that you check out the company to make certain that they are a reputable one. more...
Start a Home Business
Bad Credit Loans:When fire strikes: how you can prepare for disaster
Mortgage loans for homeowners with bad credit. Pay off bills with a home refinance loan from Countrywide Home Loans. more...
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Bad Credit Loans:ADV: Fast Auto Loans for Bad Credit
Qualify for a bad credit car loan online in 30 seconds before you apply. 93% approved nationwide. Rapid email responses. Amistoso Español. more...
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Wednesday, August 10, 2005
Bad Credit Loans - Identity theft
- Identity theft can happen anytime, anywhere and to anyone, individuals or businesses. Everyone must be educated and aware so it can be avoided. Most identity theft involves the U.S. Mail which is why the U.S. Postal Inspection Service is a lead agency in investigating Identity Theft. Identity Theft is a criminal offense.
How can I prevent Identity theft from happening to me? Never leave your receipt or slip in the ATM or gas pump. Pay attention to your habits, lock up or organize and file your bills, and bank statements. Shred them using a cross shredder before throwing them away.
In a recent article in MSN Money their research showed that 32% of people said they had been a victim of identity fraud by a friend or family, and 13% were victimized by a co-worker. Beware! These people know your patterns and habits.
Some steps you can take to avoid becoming a victim of Identity theft are:
Get a copy of your credit report from all three credit bureaus. (FREE as of 9/1/05!)
Experian, PO Box 2002, Allen TX 75013 www.experian.com 888-397-3742
Equifax, PO Box 740241, Atlanta, GA 30348 www.equifax.com 800-685-1111
Trans Union, PO Box 4000, Chester, PA 19016 www.transunion.com 866-887-2673 - Opt out of mailing lists by contacting the credit bureaus above.
- Opt out by reading the privacy notice that comes with your credit card and following the instructions.
- Call the national Do Not Call Registry at 1-888-382-1222 or visit www.donotcall.gov be sure to call from the number you want to register
- Do not carry your Social Security Card in your wallet
- Do not print your Social security number on your checks
- Do not get your social security number printed on your drivers’ license
- Do not carry your Medicade card with you, Medicade #’s are your Social security number
- Delete any emails from Nigeria, or lottery or prize notifications before opening
Stop credit card offers 888-5-OPT-OUT - Remove your name from national mailing lists by visiting www.the-dma.org or write to:
Mail Preference Service, PO Box 643. Carmel, NY 10512 - Install firewall and virus protection software on your computer
- Password protect your computer and private personal files
- Format your hard drive or physically destroy when disposing of your old computer
- When you order new checks, get your first initial printed on them instead of your first name
- Use a cross shredder to shred your bills and bank statements or any junk mail
- Bring your mail to the post office or secure mail box rather than leaving it in a rural box.
- Use only one designated credit card for online purchases
- Be sure all online purchases are made through a secure server – notice the “lock” icon and how the URL address changes from http to https. The S means SECURE.
- Do not carry your PIN # in your wallet
- Do not use your date of birth as a password or PIN.
- Do not give out personal or financial information over the phone.
- Grind up or shred back up CD’s you are throwing away.
- Check your online banking account at least 3 times a week and change your password often.
If you feel you have been a victim of identity fraud, contact the Department of Justice, consumer protection division. They offer mediation with identity theft; they also have a hot line for consumers that is available 8-5 Monday – Friday. They maintain a database of written complaints that goes back to 1998. They offer seminars to school, seniors or your group.
Be aware that 40 million crooks obtained credit card numbers this past year, “Be Suspicious”. Also be aware that most identify theft is not reported, especially when it involves family members, so the statistics are off. These statistics show that consumers lost $5 billion last year when in actuality it is closer to $50 billion. There have been an estimated 9.9 million victims in America.
Michelle Dunn has over 17 years experience in credit and debt collection. She is the founder of Never Dunn Publishing, LLC, is a writer, consultant and the Editorial Advisor for Eli Financial Debt Collection Compliance Alert Newsletter. Michelle started M.A.D. Collection Agency and ran is successfully for 7 years. She owns and runs Credit & Collections.com a free online community for credit and business professionals.
She has written 5 books in her Collecting Money Series and is currently writing a book for the Streetwise Series, part of the Adams Media Corporation. For more information on Michelle’s services or to order any of her books please email her at michelle@michelledunn.com or visit www.michelledunn.com & www.credit-and-collections.com
Bad Credit Loans:Credit Help for Real Estate Financing: Credit Scores
Credit Help for Real Estate Financing: Credit Scores
When you buy real estate, lenders run all of the "big three" credit bureau reports. Each credit reporting agency lists your credit history as supplied to them by the individual lenders and includes governmental records. Each report assigns a credit score number to you. The credit scores reflect your theoretical risk of default to the lending institutions.
Software developed by Fair Isaac and Company generates your "FICO score." Experian uses a system called Fair Isaac Risk Model, a computer program which rates you with a score according to Experian’s information. Equifax bases scores on BEACON programs and TransUnion bases scores on EMPIRICA models.
Your Baseline
You have three credit scores, often called FICO scores, one from each credit bureau. The lender takes the middle score as your baseline. Lenders have different standards, but generally a "C" score is around 500 to 600, a "B" is around 600 to 680, and an "A-" is above 680. Over 700 is the magical number that gets you the attention you desire. If your score is under 500, find someone to privately finance for you or a partner with good credit while you work on improving your score.
How Lenders Rate You
Credit score Available mortgage financing
720 - 800 Superb! You get what you want
700 - 719 Wonderful! You get top rates & terms
680 - 699 Good! You get good rates & terms
660 - 679 All right. You pay higher costs & rates
640 - 659 Okay score if good income
620 - 639 Weak. You need good income & some money
600 - 619 Poor. Use creative loan broker & pay more loan costs
580 - 599 Almost impossible without large down payment
Under 580 Work on fixing credit without delay
What Does Not Count In Your Credit Score
The scoring model doesn't compute:
Age & gender
Race
Whether you own a home or rent
Length of time at your current address
Job or length of employment at your job
Income
Education
Marital status
Whether or not you've been turned down for credit.
Real estate lenders don't just consider your credit score when you apply for mortgage financing. Understanding your credit score helps you with this one part of your mortgage requirements.
(c) Copyright 2005 Jeanette J. Fisher. All rights reserved.
Professor Jeanette Fisher, author of "Credit Help! Get the Credit You Need to Buy Real Estate," "Doghouse to Dollhouse for Dollars," and other books teaches Real Estate Investing and Design Psychology. For more articles, tips, reports, and newsletters, see http://www.recredithelp.com/
When you buy real estate, lenders run all of the "big three" credit bureau reports. Each credit reporting agency lists your credit history as supplied to them by the individual lenders and includes governmental records. Each report assigns a credit score number to you. The credit scores reflect your theoretical risk of default to the lending institutions.
Software developed by Fair Isaac and Company generates your "FICO score." Experian uses a system called Fair Isaac Risk Model, a computer program which rates you with a score according to Experian’s information. Equifax bases scores on BEACON programs and TransUnion bases scores on EMPIRICA models.
Your Baseline
You have three credit scores, often called FICO scores, one from each credit bureau. The lender takes the middle score as your baseline. Lenders have different standards, but generally a "C" score is around 500 to 600, a "B" is around 600 to 680, and an "A-" is above 680. Over 700 is the magical number that gets you the attention you desire. If your score is under 500, find someone to privately finance for you or a partner with good credit while you work on improving your score.
How Lenders Rate You
Credit score Available mortgage financing
720 - 800 Superb! You get what you want
700 - 719 Wonderful! You get top rates & terms
680 - 699 Good! You get good rates & terms
660 - 679 All right. You pay higher costs & rates
640 - 659 Okay score if good income
620 - 639 Weak. You need good income & some money
600 - 619 Poor. Use creative loan broker & pay more loan costs
580 - 599 Almost impossible without large down payment
Under 580 Work on fixing credit without delay
What Does Not Count In Your Credit Score
The scoring model doesn't compute:
Age & gender
Race
Whether you own a home or rent
Length of time at your current address
Job or length of employment at your job
Income
Education
Marital status
Whether or not you've been turned down for credit.
Real estate lenders don't just consider your credit score when you apply for mortgage financing. Understanding your credit score helps you with this one part of your mortgage requirements.
(c) Copyright 2005 Jeanette J. Fisher. All rights reserved.
Professor Jeanette Fisher, author of "Credit Help! Get the Credit You Need to Buy Real Estate," "Doghouse to Dollhouse for Dollars," and other books teaches Real Estate Investing and Design Psychology. For more articles, tips, reports, and newsletters, see http://www.recredithelp.com/
Bad Credit Loans:Free Credit Reports: From The 3 Major Credit Bureau's!
Get your credit report online for FREE. Many financial advisors suggest that you periodically review your credit report for inaccuracies or omissions.This could be especially important if you're considering making a major purchase, such as buying a home. Checking in advance on the accuracy of information in your credit file could speed the credit-granting process, clean credit is a must. more...
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Tuesday, August 09, 2005
Bad Credit Loans: Free Credit Reports Now Available From the FTC
Free Credit Reports!
Get your credit report online for FREE. Many financial advisors suggest that you periodically review your credit report for inaccuracies or omissions.
This could be especially important if you're considering making a major purchase, such as buying a home. Checking in advance on the accuracy of information in your credit file could speed the credit-granting process, clean credit is a must.
A recent amendment to the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires each of the credit bureau`s to provide you with free credit reports, at your request, once every 12 months.
Free Credit Reports, contain information on where you live, how you pay your bills, and whether you’ve been sued, arrested, or filed for bankruptcy. Nationwide credit bureau`s sell the information in your credit report to creditors, insurers, employers, and other businesses that use it to evaluate your applications for credit, insurance, employment, or renting a home. There are three nationwide credit reporting companies Equifax, Experian, and Trans Union.
Everyone in the Western states will first be able to order their free credit reports under the federal law beginning December 1, 2004. Consumers in other states will be able to order their copies according to a regional roll-out detailed below.
In recent months, consumers have asked the FTC for more details about their rights under the federal FCRA and the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions (FACT) Act, which established the free credit reports program. They’ve also asked about credit reports in general. Here are the most frequently asked questions and the answers.
Q: How do I know when I’m eligible to get a free credit report?
A: Soon free credit reports will be phased in during a nine- month period, rolling from the West Coast to the East beginning December 1, 2004. Beginning September 1, 2005, free credit reports will be accessible to all Americans, regardless of where they live.
Everyone in the Western states Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming can order their free credit reports beginning December 1, 2004.
Everyone in the Midwestern states Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin can order their free reports beginning March 1, 2005.
Everyone in the Southern states Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas can order their free reports beginning June 1, 2005.
Consumers in the Eastern states Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and West Virginia the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and all U.S. territories can order their free credit report beginning September 1, 2005.
Q: How do I order my free credit report from the 3 major credit bureau`s?
A: You may order your free credit reports from each of the three nationwide credit bureau`s at the same time, or you can order from only one or two. The law allows you to order one free copy from each of the nationwide credit reporting companies every 12 months.
Q: What information do I have to provide to get my free credit reports?
A: You need to provide your name, address, Social Security number, and date of birth.
If you have moved in the last two years, you may have to provide your previous address.
To maintain the security of your file, each nationwide credit bureau`s may ask you for some information that only you would know, like the amount of your monthly mortgage payment.
Each company may ask you for different information because the information each has in your file may come from different sources. The nationwide credit reporting companies will not send you an email asking for your personal information. If you get an email or see a pop-up ad claiming it’s from any of the three nationwide consumer reporting companies, do not reply or click on any link in the message it’s probably a scam.
Forward any email that claims to be from any of three credit bureau`s to the FTC’s database of deceptive spam at spam@uce.gov. Any of three credit bureau`s also will not call you to ask for your personal information.
Q: Why would I want to get a copy of my free credit reports?
A: You may want to review your free credit reports:
because the information it contains affects whether you can get a loan and how much you will have to pay to borrow money. to make sure the information is accurate, complete, and up-to-date before you apply for a loan for a major purchase like a house or car, buy insurance, or apply for a job. to help guard against identity theft.
That’s when someone uses your personal information like your name, your Social Security number, or your credit card number to commit fraud.
Identity thieves may use your information to open a new credit card account in your name. Then, when they don’t pay the bills, the delinquent account is reported on your credit report. Inaccurate information like that could affect your ability to get credit, insurance, or even a job.
Q: How long does it take to get my report after I order it?
A: If you request your free credit reports online, you should be able to access it immediately. If you order your report by mail using the Annual Credit Report Request Form, your request will be processed and mailed to you within 15 days of receipt.
Whether you order your report online, by phone, or by mail, it may take longer to receive your report if the 3 major credit bureau`s needs more information to verify your identity.
There may be times when the major credit bureau`s receive an extraordinary volume of requests for credit reports. If that happens, you may be asked to re-submit your request. Or, you may be told that your report will be mailed to you sometime after 15 days from your request. If either of these events occurs, the 3 major credit bureau`s will let you know.
Q: Are there any other situations where I might be eligible for a free credit report?
A: Under federal law, you’re entitled to a free credit report if a company takes adverse action against you, such as denying your application for credit, insurance, or employment, and you ask for your report within 60 days of receiving notice of the action.
The notice will give you the name, address, and phone number of the credit reporting company. You’re also entitled to one free credit report a year if you’re unemployed and plan to look for a job within 60 days; if you’re on welfare; or if your report is inaccurate because of fraud, including identity theft.
Otherwise, a credit reporting company may charge you up to $9 for another copy of your report within a 12-month period.
To buy a copy of your report, contact:
Equifax 800-685-1111 www.equifax.com
Experian 888-EXPERIAN (888-397-3742) www.experian.com
Trans Union 800-916-8800 www.transunion.com
Under state law, consumers in Colorado, Georgia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Vermont already have free access to their credit reports.
Q: Should I order a credit report from each of the 3 major credit bureau`s?
A: It’s up to you. Because the credit bureau`s get their information from different sources, the information in your credit report from one company may not reflect all, or the same, information in your reports from the other two companies. That’s not to say that the information in any of your reports is necessarily inaccurate; it just may be different.
Q: Should I order my reports from all three of the major credit bureau`s at the same time?
A: You may order one, two, or all three free credit reports at the same time, or you may stagger your requests. It’s your choice. Some financial advisors say staggering your requests during a 12-month period may be a good way to keep an eye on the accuracy and completeness of the information in your reports.
Q: What if I find errors either inaccuracies or incomplete information in my credit reports?
A: Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, both the credit bureau and the information provider (that is, the person, company, or organization that provides information about you to a credit bureau`s) are responsible for correcting inaccurate or incomplete information in your report. To take advantage of all your rights under this law, contact the Credit Bureau and the information provider.
Tell the credit bureau, in writing, what information you think is inaccurate.
They must investigate the items in question usually within 30 days unless they consider your dispute frivolous. They also must forward all the relevant data you provide about the inaccuracy to the organization that provided the information. After the information provider receives notice of a dispute from the credit bureau, it must investigate, review the relevant information, and report the results back. If the information provider finds the disputed information is inaccurate, it must notify all three credit bureau`s, so they can correct the information in your file.
When the investigation is complete, the credit bureau must give you the written results and free credit reports if the dispute results in a change. (This free report does not count as your annual free report under the FACT Act.) If an item is changed or deleted, the credit bureau`s cannot put the disputed information back in your file unless the information provider verifies that it is accurate and complete. They also must send you written notice that includes the name, address, and phone number of the information provider.
Tell the creditor or other information provider in writing that you dispute an item. Many providers specify an address for disputes. If the provider reports the item to a credit bureau, it must include a notice of your dispute. And if you are correct that is, if the information is found to be inaccurate the information provider may not report it again.
Q: What can I do if the credit bureau or information provider won’t correct the information I dispute?
A: If an investigation doesn’t resolve your dispute with the credit bureau`s, you can ask that a statement of the dispute be included in your file and in future reports. You also can ask the credit reporting company to provide your statement to anyone who received a copy of your report in the recent past.
You can expect to pay a fee for this service.
If you tell the information provider that you dispute an item, a notice of your dispute must be included any time the information provider reports the item to a credit bureau.
Q: How long can a credit bureau report negative information?
A: A credit bureau can report most accurate negative information for seven years and bankruptcy information for 10 years.
There is no time limit on reporting information about criminal convictions; information reported in response to your application for a job that pays more than $75,000 a year; and information reported because you’ve applied for more than $150,000 worth of credit or life insurance.
Information about a lawsuit or an unpaid judgment against you can be reported for seven years or until the statute of limitations runs out, whichever is longer.
Q: Who else can get a copy of my credit report?
A: The Fair Credit Reporting Act specifies who can access your credit report. Creditors, insurers, employers, and other businesses that use the information in your report to evaluate your applications for credit, insurance, employment, or renting a home are among those that have a legal right to access your report.
Q: Can my employer get my credit reports?
A: Your employer can get a copy of your credit report only if you agree. A credit bureau may not provide information about you to your employer, or to a prospective employer, without your written consent.
For More Infomation Visit: http://www.debt-elimination-program-reviews.com They review and then list some of the best debt elimination, programs, software and books available online in 2005!
Get your credit report online for FREE. Many financial advisors suggest that you periodically review your credit report for inaccuracies or omissions.
This could be especially important if you're considering making a major purchase, such as buying a home. Checking in advance on the accuracy of information in your credit file could speed the credit-granting process, clean credit is a must.
A recent amendment to the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires each of the credit bureau`s to provide you with free credit reports, at your request, once every 12 months.
Free Credit Reports, contain information on where you live, how you pay your bills, and whether you’ve been sued, arrested, or filed for bankruptcy. Nationwide credit bureau`s sell the information in your credit report to creditors, insurers, employers, and other businesses that use it to evaluate your applications for credit, insurance, employment, or renting a home. There are three nationwide credit reporting companies Equifax, Experian, and Trans Union.
Everyone in the Western states will first be able to order their free credit reports under the federal law beginning December 1, 2004. Consumers in other states will be able to order their copies according to a regional roll-out detailed below.
In recent months, consumers have asked the FTC for more details about their rights under the federal FCRA and the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions (FACT) Act, which established the free credit reports program. They’ve also asked about credit reports in general. Here are the most frequently asked questions and the answers.
Q: How do I know when I’m eligible to get a free credit report?
A: Soon free credit reports will be phased in during a nine- month period, rolling from the West Coast to the East beginning December 1, 2004. Beginning September 1, 2005, free credit reports will be accessible to all Americans, regardless of where they live.
Everyone in the Western states Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming can order their free credit reports beginning December 1, 2004.
Everyone in the Midwestern states Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin can order their free reports beginning March 1, 2005.
Everyone in the Southern states Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas can order their free reports beginning June 1, 2005.
Consumers in the Eastern states Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and West Virginia the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and all U.S. territories can order their free credit report beginning September 1, 2005.
Q: How do I order my free credit report from the 3 major credit bureau`s?
A: You may order your free credit reports from each of the three nationwide credit bureau`s at the same time, or you can order from only one or two. The law allows you to order one free copy from each of the nationwide credit reporting companies every 12 months.
Q: What information do I have to provide to get my free credit reports?
A: You need to provide your name, address, Social Security number, and date of birth.
If you have moved in the last two years, you may have to provide your previous address.
To maintain the security of your file, each nationwide credit bureau`s may ask you for some information that only you would know, like the amount of your monthly mortgage payment.
Each company may ask you for different information because the information each has in your file may come from different sources. The nationwide credit reporting companies will not send you an email asking for your personal information. If you get an email or see a pop-up ad claiming it’s from any of the three nationwide consumer reporting companies, do not reply or click on any link in the message it’s probably a scam.
Forward any email that claims to be from any of three credit bureau`s to the FTC’s database of deceptive spam at spam@uce.gov. Any of three credit bureau`s also will not call you to ask for your personal information.
Q: Why would I want to get a copy of my free credit reports?
A: You may want to review your free credit reports:
because the information it contains affects whether you can get a loan and how much you will have to pay to borrow money. to make sure the information is accurate, complete, and up-to-date before you apply for a loan for a major purchase like a house or car, buy insurance, or apply for a job. to help guard against identity theft.
That’s when someone uses your personal information like your name, your Social Security number, or your credit card number to commit fraud.
Identity thieves may use your information to open a new credit card account in your name. Then, when they don’t pay the bills, the delinquent account is reported on your credit report. Inaccurate information like that could affect your ability to get credit, insurance, or even a job.
Q: How long does it take to get my report after I order it?
A: If you request your free credit reports online, you should be able to access it immediately. If you order your report by mail using the Annual Credit Report Request Form, your request will be processed and mailed to you within 15 days of receipt.
Whether you order your report online, by phone, or by mail, it may take longer to receive your report if the 3 major credit bureau`s needs more information to verify your identity.
There may be times when the major credit bureau`s receive an extraordinary volume of requests for credit reports. If that happens, you may be asked to re-submit your request. Or, you may be told that your report will be mailed to you sometime after 15 days from your request. If either of these events occurs, the 3 major credit bureau`s will let you know.
Q: Are there any other situations where I might be eligible for a free credit report?
A: Under federal law, you’re entitled to a free credit report if a company takes adverse action against you, such as denying your application for credit, insurance, or employment, and you ask for your report within 60 days of receiving notice of the action.
The notice will give you the name, address, and phone number of the credit reporting company. You’re also entitled to one free credit report a year if you’re unemployed and plan to look for a job within 60 days; if you’re on welfare; or if your report is inaccurate because of fraud, including identity theft.
Otherwise, a credit reporting company may charge you up to $9 for another copy of your report within a 12-month period.
To buy a copy of your report, contact:
Equifax 800-685-1111 www.equifax.com
Experian 888-EXPERIAN (888-397-3742) www.experian.com
Trans Union 800-916-8800 www.transunion.com
Under state law, consumers in Colorado, Georgia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Vermont already have free access to their credit reports.
Q: Should I order a credit report from each of the 3 major credit bureau`s?
A: It’s up to you. Because the credit bureau`s get their information from different sources, the information in your credit report from one company may not reflect all, or the same, information in your reports from the other two companies. That’s not to say that the information in any of your reports is necessarily inaccurate; it just may be different.
Q: Should I order my reports from all three of the major credit bureau`s at the same time?
A: You may order one, two, or all three free credit reports at the same time, or you may stagger your requests. It’s your choice. Some financial advisors say staggering your requests during a 12-month period may be a good way to keep an eye on the accuracy and completeness of the information in your reports.
Q: What if I find errors either inaccuracies or incomplete information in my credit reports?
A: Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, both the credit bureau and the information provider (that is, the person, company, or organization that provides information about you to a credit bureau`s) are responsible for correcting inaccurate or incomplete information in your report. To take advantage of all your rights under this law, contact the Credit Bureau and the information provider.
Tell the credit bureau, in writing, what information you think is inaccurate.
They must investigate the items in question usually within 30 days unless they consider your dispute frivolous. They also must forward all the relevant data you provide about the inaccuracy to the organization that provided the information. After the information provider receives notice of a dispute from the credit bureau, it must investigate, review the relevant information, and report the results back. If the information provider finds the disputed information is inaccurate, it must notify all three credit bureau`s, so they can correct the information in your file.
When the investigation is complete, the credit bureau must give you the written results and free credit reports if the dispute results in a change. (This free report does not count as your annual free report under the FACT Act.) If an item is changed or deleted, the credit bureau`s cannot put the disputed information back in your file unless the information provider verifies that it is accurate and complete. They also must send you written notice that includes the name, address, and phone number of the information provider.
Tell the creditor or other information provider in writing that you dispute an item. Many providers specify an address for disputes. If the provider reports the item to a credit bureau, it must include a notice of your dispute. And if you are correct that is, if the information is found to be inaccurate the information provider may not report it again.
Q: What can I do if the credit bureau or information provider won’t correct the information I dispute?
A: If an investigation doesn’t resolve your dispute with the credit bureau`s, you can ask that a statement of the dispute be included in your file and in future reports. You also can ask the credit reporting company to provide your statement to anyone who received a copy of your report in the recent past.
You can expect to pay a fee for this service.
If you tell the information provider that you dispute an item, a notice of your dispute must be included any time the information provider reports the item to a credit bureau.
Q: How long can a credit bureau report negative information?
A: A credit bureau can report most accurate negative information for seven years and bankruptcy information for 10 years.
There is no time limit on reporting information about criminal convictions; information reported in response to your application for a job that pays more than $75,000 a year; and information reported because you’ve applied for more than $150,000 worth of credit or life insurance.
Information about a lawsuit or an unpaid judgment against you can be reported for seven years or until the statute of limitations runs out, whichever is longer.
Q: Who else can get a copy of my credit report?
A: The Fair Credit Reporting Act specifies who can access your credit report. Creditors, insurers, employers, and other businesses that use the information in your report to evaluate your applications for credit, insurance, employment, or renting a home are among those that have a legal right to access your report.
Q: Can my employer get my credit reports?
A: Your employer can get a copy of your credit report only if you agree. A credit bureau may not provide information about you to your employer, or to a prospective employer, without your written consent.
For More Infomation Visit: http://www.debt-elimination-program-reviews.com They review and then list some of the best debt elimination, programs, software and books available online in 2005!
Sunday, August 07, 2005
Bad Credit Loans:Credit Reports: Find out why you have been refused Credit.
You may already have 2 or more credit cards in your purse or wallet and you have just applied for a third and been declined. This can be very frustrating considering you pay off your other credit cards regularly and you are continually having your credit limit raised.
This is a common problem and the only way to find out more is by getting a copy of your Credit Report. Equifax and Experian are the two main credit reference companies in the UK and hold credit details of over 40 million people. Your file includes information about all your credit cards, loans, mortgages, bank account details, as well as any adverse bill payments or County Court Judgements against you.
When a Credit Provider asses your credit risk they will look at your Credit Report and make a decision based on your scoring. Your score is based on several factors. You may get more points for living in your address for more than 3 years or for having a home telephone, be married or for having children. Your age and profession can also help your score. The more points you have on your file the more chance you have of being approved for credit. The credit provider will use all this information coupled with your credit history to come to a decision. A Credit Providers scoring system is sensitive information so it’s not easy to understand why you were refused credit.
By having access to your Credit Report you will be able to get a sense of why you possibly have not been granted Credit. Another important point is to check and see that everything on your report is correct. You are allowed to make corrections to your file. As most people don’t get their Credit Report they never know what’s on it or why they are being refused credit. If you fell behind in some of your bill payments you are also allowed to add a note explaining why you did. This may also improve your score.
With all the 0% credit cards on offer its worth mentioning that if you are continuously applying for these cards you could be damaging your credit score. The number of times you apply within a 6 to 12 month period can have an adverse effect on your score. If you have been refused credit, don’t just move on to the next lender, find out as much as possible as to why it was declined before applying somewhere else.
You can find out more about your Credit Report at Experian and Equifax. It costs £2 for a basic report.
Grant Marwick is a freelance writer and owner of http://www.only-credit-cards.co.uk where you will find advice and more articles on Low interest Credit Cards and Credit Reports.
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This is a common problem and the only way to find out more is by getting a copy of your Credit Report. Equifax and Experian are the two main credit reference companies in the UK and hold credit details of over 40 million people. Your file includes information about all your credit cards, loans, mortgages, bank account details, as well as any adverse bill payments or County Court Judgements against you.
When a Credit Provider asses your credit risk they will look at your Credit Report and make a decision based on your scoring. Your score is based on several factors. You may get more points for living in your address for more than 3 years or for having a home telephone, be married or for having children. Your age and profession can also help your score. The more points you have on your file the more chance you have of being approved for credit. The credit provider will use all this information coupled with your credit history to come to a decision. A Credit Providers scoring system is sensitive information so it’s not easy to understand why you were refused credit.
By having access to your Credit Report you will be able to get a sense of why you possibly have not been granted Credit. Another important point is to check and see that everything on your report is correct. You are allowed to make corrections to your file. As most people don’t get their Credit Report they never know what’s on it or why they are being refused credit. If you fell behind in some of your bill payments you are also allowed to add a note explaining why you did. This may also improve your score.
With all the 0% credit cards on offer its worth mentioning that if you are continuously applying for these cards you could be damaging your credit score. The number of times you apply within a 6 to 12 month period can have an adverse effect on your score. If you have been refused credit, don’t just move on to the next lender, find out as much as possible as to why it was declined before applying somewhere else.
You can find out more about your Credit Report at Experian and Equifax. It costs £2 for a basic report.
Grant Marwick is a freelance writer and owner of http://www.only-credit-cards.co.uk where you will find advice and more articles on Low interest Credit Cards and Credit Reports.
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Bad Credit Loans:Who Are You? - Protecting Yourself From Identity Theft
In the movie �"The Net,�" Sandra Bullock played the role of a victim of identity theft. In fact, she was basically erased from the community. Another woman consumed her identity, taking with it everything Sandra Bullock�'s character had - including her bank accounts, license and social security number, and even her home. It seems crazy to think this could happen; after all it�'s only a movie. But just as fairy tales can come true, so can your worst nightmare. Theft of identity is happening at an alarming rate. Over 100,000 identity theft complaints are filed each year. more...
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Saturday, August 06, 2005
Bad Credit Loans:The Easy Way To Gain Access To Your Free Online Credit Report -Equifax Credit Reports-
When you apply for credit, those lending you the money want to know if you are going to pay them back. One way they decide if you are a good risk is to see how you�'ve dealt with other people�'s money. They find this information in your credit report. more...
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Bad Credit Loans:7 Surefire Ways To Repair Bad Credit -Equifax -
Do you have a poor credit rating? If so, you are one of tens of thousands of Americans with the same problem. In fact, it seems that this has become a national �'disease.�' And just what do people need that have a disease? They need a cure. more...
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Friday, August 05, 2005
Bad Credit Loans:Consolidate All Your Debt Into One Monthly Payment
Are you feeling overburdened with debt? Are you paying out too much every month for your credit cards, store cards and loans? Then why not replace them all with one, lower, convenient repayment through a consolidation loan? more...
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Bad Credit Loans:Credit Cards Debt Consolidation
Consolidating credit card debt is never easy. Too often people run up their debts without even realizing it until it is too late. If you are one of these people, don't feel bad or trapped, or that there is something wrong with you. Credit cards are the hardest bills to consolidate because the interest rates are so high. But not any more. We are here to help you get your monthly payments to a bear minimum. more...
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Bad Credit Loans:The Pro's and Con's of Debt Consolidation Loans
You are swimming in debt. You have 4 credit cards maxed out, a car loan, a consumer loan, and a house payment. Simply making the minimum payments is causing your distress and certainly not getting you out of debt. What should you do? more...
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Bad Credit Loans:Is A Federal Debt Consolidation Loan Right For You?
The U.S. Government offers a plan that can help you manage your student loan debt with a Federal Direct Consolidation Loan. Whether you're a recent graduate, midway into your career, still in school or in your grace period, a debt consolidation loan from the federal government may lessen the amount you need to repay, or increase the time that you have to pay off your current debt. How can a more...
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Bad Credit Loans:Why Use A Prepaid Credit Card?
Prepaid credit cards have been growing in popularity over the past several years. But despite the 'credit card' name, no credit is actually involved. Here�?Ts how they work. When you use a standard credit card, you pay for the convenience of being able to purchase things without saving the money up first. The issuing bank is essentially lending money to you, and you repay it on a regular basis. But more...
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Bad Credit Loans:
Credit Card Debt Consolidation Loan Credit is like a totally different world. It has always existed, but not in the same way it is used today. Everyone has a personal relationship with credit, some good and some bad. Credit is established when you apply for a job, rent an apartment, buy or lease a car, have been issued a credit card, or simply open a bank account. For many of us, our relationship with credit began at birth, and for all of us, will be with us until the end. It is important that as consumers in a world of credit, we understand the fundamentals of credit so we avoid negatively affecting our credit. There are numerous resources to learn about the basics of credit and how it affects us. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 more...
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Bad Credit Loans:Understanding Your Credit Score
Understanding your credit score can help you improve it, which can result in better rates on loans. In this article, you will learn the basics of interpreting your credit score and what actions you can take to improve it. more...
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Bad Credit Loans:10 Dirty Tricks Credit Card Companies Play
The credit card companies are adopting some dirty tricks to steal more money from their clients. Learn what they are so you don't become a victim. more...
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Bad Credit Loans:Protect yourself against identity theft
Identity theft is a felony that is becoming more and more common. It's important to protect yourself against it. more...
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Thursday, August 04, 2005
Bad Credit Loans:Credit cards for small business
Many small business owners know that the rate of their companies growth is limited by their cash flow and increasing the amount of spendable cash is crutial to the growth of their business. Credit cards can be a great means of increasing your cash flow. This articles explains how. more...
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Bad Credit Loans:Maximizing Credit Card Rewards
Learn how to get the most out of various rewards cards without falling for the traps. more...
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Bad Credit Loans:Using credit cards wisely
Using credit cards wisely
"I think money was stolen from my card" or "I might have blocked my card in the ATM" - these are frequent problems that bank customer-support officers usually hear from agitated clients. Incorrect use of credit cards or wrong interpretations of their functions are frequent even after tens of years of credit-card extensive use. Actually, there are 4 most frequent causes for problems; one is related to overspending, the second is about missing money; this is usually connected to the 3rd problem - unauthorized use and finally there is the issue of forgotten information. All these problems are interconnected and can lead to serious financial problems. However, there are a few simple things that you can do in order to avoid hassle.
First and foremost, remember that your credit card has a limit. When you open a credit line you will be given a certain credit limit that can vary from twice your monthly income to 3 or maybe 4 times that income, depending on past credit history. However, do not spend more than you can pay back. At the end of each month you will have to pay-back the borrowed money and there will be no exceptions from the rule. So lesson number one is “spend within limits”.
The second thing you need to do is keep a record of your expenditures. Keep bank statements, receipts and carbons in a safe place and at the end of each month make a calculation of your deposits and withdrawals. If there is any discrepancy between the two, make sure to contact your issuer bank immediately and solve the situation. Most people find out that they have forgotten about a certain payment that was made with the card, yet you may find out more important information than this.
This brings us to the next issue - the unauthorized use of credit cards. This is a wide problem mainly due to theft. It is safe to keep your credit cards in a wallet, separately from any other papers so that you do not lose cards; it is also recommended that you make sure there is no one watching over your shoulder when you type you personal identification number and off course there is the rule of never giving out the PIN to anybody. Unauthorized use is not only related to theft. Young children should never be given the number and/or the PIN of a credit card. If they are still not aware of the value and importance of money you may find yourself paying for useless items or services. So rule no.2 is Never Give out Your PIN.
There are many things we need to remember and keep track of. One of these things is credit card information such as name of issuer, year and month of expiration, credit card number and PIN and the help-line phone number. If you feel there is too much data to memorize it is best to have everything written down and kept in a safe place like a deposit box or your telephone - there are telephones that offer a special notebook feature which can only be accessed by introducing a code and where you can store data safely. Therefore, another thing you need to do is Keep Records of Important Information.
Managing credit cards is not child's play. You will need to keep good track of your money if you do not want to overspend or lose track of expenditures. You also need to learn that your money is your business and thus attention needs to be paid when giving out credit card identification information. Last, but just as important, you need to keep in handy support-centre contact information in case you need to report irregularities or you have questions to ask. Attention and common sense is actually all you need in order to use a credit card wisely.
This article has been provided courtesy of Creditor Web. Creditor Web offers great credit card articles available for reprint and other tools to help you search and compare credit card offers.
Bad Credit Loans:Finding what is on your credit report
Having knowledge of what is on your credit report is a critical first step in building a good credit history. This article tells you what you should know about your credit report and how to go about getting it. more...
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Bad Credit Loans:Using credit cards securely online
Using credit cards securely online
Nowadays, shopping online is a very common thing. Making your purchases without leaving your house is an attractive option for many of us. Purchasing items over the internet using your credit card can be quite an unpleasant experience if you don't make sure your payments are safe. Although many people consider that using a credit card for online transactions is not safe, they continue using this method but with increased caution measures. The greatest risk we expose ourselves to when shopping online is identity theft. But this is not the only risk, and various studies reveal that people have also other concerns like: personal information will be sold to third parties, unauthorized recurring transactions, not receiving the ordered products or even higher prices than advertised prices.
Many people think that shopping online is risky, but the risk is not greater than others. Taking few precaution measures is the best thing to do unless you want to quite shopping online. First of all, we should not shop from unknown websites. Always look for the companies you know or ask someone to recommend you a site or a company that he/she uses. Still, if you're not sure of the vendor's identity try to find his address and phone number and check them. Also check the refund and return policies of the company in case they don't ship you the right products or you're not satisfied with their quality. Another thing to be careful about is the browser that you're using, it has to be a secured browser. A secured browser should include Secure Sockets Layer that scramble the information you are sending over the internet, making the transaction more secure. You can easily recognize a secured web site, because when you're filling in online orders or applications a closed padlock sign should appear at the bottom of the screen. Another way to make sure that the web site is secure is to check the URL; if it begins with "https" it means the transaction is secure because the "s" stands for secure.
Another important thing to be careful about is your privacy. The information you're submitting when you use your credit card online should be kept private by the company that receives it, meaning it should not be passed on or sold to third parties unless you agree. Most web sites ask for your permission to use personal details for direct marketing, and if you feel uncomfortable giving them permission you must know you have the right to object. Anyway, before submitting any personal details you should check the privacy policy of an website; if there are things not clear to you give them a call and see if your understanding is correct or not. Do not submit any information, unless you're absolutely sure that your credit card details are safe.
Being able to safely use credit cards for online purchases is not only the buyer's responsibility. The vendor has also his part of responsibility in ensuring safe purchases for his clients. Vendors also suffer from credit card frauds. They have to take some security measures in order for them and their customers to be protected against online credit card frauds. Security and privacy are two important aspects a vendor should take into consideration. He must ensure the client that the personal information submitted are kept private and at the same time he must check the details received to make sure that he's dealing with the real cardholder.
It is a well known fact that online credit card transactions are risky, because your personal information are exposed and can be stolen by others with the intention of using them to commit frauds. Yet, if the buyers are careful to whom they relies these information and the vendors are cautious from whom they receive credit card information, the risks of online credit card frauds decreases significantly. When disclosing personal information, common sense should exist.
This article has been provided courtesy of Creditor Web. Creditor Web offers great credit card articles available for reprint and other tools to help you search and compare credit card offers.
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Bad Credit Loans:Consolidating credit cards
Consolidating credit cards
Credit card consolidation is a popular solution for those with significant credit card debt, usually distributed on three or four different cards. Basically, this means putting all your debts together on a single card, like transferring it all to one loan. Of course, the goal is to pick a card that offers better conditions than what you already have, in order not only to simplify, but also to reduce your payments.
Since there are so many offers out there, and lenders fight over your business, you can sometimes find solutions that can save you thousands of dollars per year. If you consolidate your debt to a credit card with low interest and 0% balance transfer, you can save considerably, and pay off your credit sooner (which, of course, is the main goal when dealing with credit card debt).
The most serious mistake people do when consolidating is to go though the entire process just to simplify their accounting, and they don't pay enough attention to how much they could save. Another mistake is to close your zero balance accounts when consolidating. This practically means you close some of your credit options, which is never a good idea.
When you plan to consolidate, call your banks and explain the situation. They want your business, and you'll be surprised how flexible and willing to negotiate they can be, once you explain to them that you have various options available to take your business someplace else.
There are many web sites offering solutions for debt consolidation. However, keep in mind that, while this is a comfortable and fast solution, you don't have the options to negotiate directly with the banks. Also, most often the best offers come from banks that want to keep your business, so make sure you give a change to the banks you've had a long-term relation with. If you're not pleased with the results, take your money elsewhere quickly.
Consolidation is often a necessity for students, new graduates, or people who have filed for bankruptcy some time ago. If you've handled your payments well and managed to clear up your record to a certain degree, there is no need to continue paying more than it's worth for your credit cards. Sit down and go through the numbers carefully, and think analyze the problem realistically. Don't forget to check your credit report and your credit rating before you start anything - it will help you plan and plead your case. Also, if your credit request gets rejected, don't forget to ask for your free copy of the credit report.
Of course, credit card consolidation is not a miracle solution for all your financial problems. On the contrary, you may find that it requires a lot of financial discipline to make the payment on time and to straighten things up. However, it is less confusing than having several small credits, and so it is easier to keep things under control.
There is also the option of getting credit counseling, if things get really confusing. A successful plan will make sure you make the payments on time and regularly, without putting a strain on other aspects of your life. Of course, it's a lengthy process, usually taking one or two years - but it's worth the trouble.
Sometimes, you can lower costs by consolidating your debt through a second mortgage - but be really careful about the hidden costs and problems - you may want to consult with a specialist or two before taking this step. Usually, this means that your home will become collateral, and you may lose it if things go wrong. Also, costs add up quickly and you may end up paying more than you initially thought.
This article has been provided courtesy of Creditor Web. Creditor Web offers great credit card articles available for reprint and other tools to help you search and compare credit card offers.
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Bad Credit Loans:Choosing the card that is right for you.
Choosing the card that is right for you.
Credit cards represent an important part of our financial lives. Having the right credit cards is essential and will make a big difference to your finances. Before choosing the right credit card you must shop around for one.
First make an idea on what credit cards are available on the market from the numerous offers that are always coming to your mailbox. Yet, don't relay too much on them as they can be confusing and sometimes misleading. After that try to establish what features of the credit card are the most important for you. The perfect card for you should provide the right combination of fees, rates and benefits. The next step would be to compare various credit cards and decide which one you will finally choose.
Nowadays, Internet can be of big help to you when shopping for a credit card. First of all, almost all financial companies that offer credit cards have websites. This can save you the trouble of wasting your time to personally visit them all. All you need to do is visit them all from the comfort of your own home and see what offer fits best to your needs. Some of these websites have a great feature that lets you compare several credit cards side by side. And when you see all the figures at once it is easier to decide which card to select.
When you go shopping for a credit card you must think first about how you will use your future card: you'll pay your monthly bill in full, you'll carry over a balance from month to month or you'll use your card to get cash advances. Depending on your needs you'll have to be careful what APR (annual percentage rate) the credit card has. Also, you should already know that a single credit card has several APRs; be sure to check all of them. Another thing to check is how the finance charge is calculated because each company calculates it differently and you'll want to choose the one that offers more advantages to you. Some credit cards even have a minimum finance charge, meaning it will charge you the minimum even if the calculated amount of your finance charge is less. You'll have to carefully weight all of this information and than decide which credit card is right for you.
The fees charged by a credit card should also be taken in consideration when selecting a credit card. Most credit cards charge several fees like: annual fee, cash advance fee, late payment fee, balance transfer fee, etc. This is probably the most important consideration. If you plan to pay the bill in full every month select a credit card with no annual fee. If you usually use the cash advance feature check what credit card has the lowest cash advance fee. Or pick the credit card that has the lowest interest rate if you expect to carry a balance.
Even though the features mentioned above are the most important to consider when shopping for a credit card, there are also other features that are not of such great importance but at the end they will make a difference. For example, some credit cards are accepted in more places than others. When choosing a card you have to make sure that it is accepted at the types of places where you will want to use it. The benefits received with a card can also make a difference. Some companies offer various benefits for some credit cards, like: rebates on the purchases you make, discounts on travel, various gifts and discounts, etc. When selecting such a credit card, make sure that the benefits are those you'll use and that the other aspects of the card do not offset the benefits.
The most important thing to remember when shopping for a credit card is to take your time and carefully evaluate all the features of the card and after that decide which card is right for you and meets all you needs.
This article has been provided courtesy of Creditor Web. Creditor Web offers great credit card articles available for reprint and other tools to help you search and compare credit card offers.
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Bad Credit Loans:Building your credit history
Building your credit history
Today, credit is an indispensable part of our lives. In order to get the things you need, such as a home or a car, you have to apply for a credit. But you cannot get a credit without having a credit history, and you cannot get a good quality credit without having a good credit history. So, it is important to start building your credit history when you're young.
When applying for a credit, if you don't have a credit history, it is possible your credit application to be denied. This means you definitely need to start building a credit history. There are different ways to start a credit history. If you're a student, you can get a student card from the companies that offer such special cards. On this credit card you can charge your necessities and at the same time build your own credit history.
When you're a young adult and you have always used checks or paid cash for your purchases you'll soon realize that you cannot apply for a credit as you don't have a credit history. A secured credit card can really help you. These secured credit cards are considered a first step for those with no credit history. For obtaining a secured credit card a deposit is required and the spending limit is equal to the amount of the deposit. To make sure you're building a good credit history with this first credit card, be careful not to go over the limit and pay your bills on time. After some time, depending on each company, you can apply for an unsecured credit card but only if you have a good credit history.
There are also other more simple ways of starting a credit history. One easy solution is to open a savings or checking account that will definitely show how you are able to manage your money. Or if you have a cellular phone or a pager and pay your bills on time every month, you can demonstrate that you're capable to control your money wisely. Another way is to consider applying for a card offered by gasoline companies or retail stores. This type of card has a low credit limit and can be paid off each month.
All above methods are just first steps in building a credit history. The next steps are also important because they will greatly influence the history you have started building. Every time you pay or not pay a bill on time your credit history registers it. Having a good credit history shows that you are a person that treats debts responsibly and you're likely to pay back the money that you want to borrow. To gain the confidence of the credit companies they have to see on your credit history that you treat with responsibility every bill. So make sure to pay the total minimum due on every one of your bills and do an effort to pay them by the statement due date so that they arrive on time. Also do you best to pay at least the minimum, if not the entire, balance each month. Try to never skip payments; it doesn't look good on your credit history.
If you ever feel that your debts are getting out of control, immediately seek help from a financial counselor. He will be able to evaluate the entire situation better than you can and he can find the best solution that will get you out of that massy situation. A financial counselor will also advise you to annually check your credit report for any errors that may appear. Then, if any errors are present, correct them immediately.
It is not difficult to start building a credit history; it just takes time and a lot of patience from your side. Yet, we have to admit that the difficult part is to build a good credit history for which you must be able to demonstrate that you can wisely manage your money. Keep in mind that a good credit history will only bring you benefits.
This article has been provided courtesy of Creditor Web. Creditor Web offers great credit card articles available for reprint and other tools to help you search and compare credit card offers.
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