What can I do to improve my score?
Credit score systems can be difficult to understand, and there have been many change with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
Payment history typically is a significant factor. It is likely that your score will be affected negatively if you have paid bills late, had an account referred to collections, or declared bankruptcy, if that history is reflected on your credit report.
Many scoring models evaluate the amount of debt you have compared to your credit limits. If the amount you owe is close to your credit limit, that is likely to have a negative effect on your score.
Generally, models consider the length of your credit track record. An insufficient credit history may have an effect on your score, but that can be offset by other factors, such as timely payments and low balances.
Many scoring models consider whether you have applied for credit recently by looking at “inquiries” on your credit report when you apply for credit. If you have applied for too many new accounts recently, that may negatively affect your score. However, not all inquiries are counted. Inquiries by creditors who are monitoring your account or looking at credit reports to make “prescreened” credit offers are not counted.
Although it is generally good to have established credit accounts, too many credit card accounts may have a negative effect on your score. In addition, many models consider the type of credit accounts you have. For example, under some scoring models, loans from finance companies may negatively affect your credit score.
To improve your credit score with Trans Union, Equifax, and Experian, focus on making your payments on time. It is also important to pay down or pay off any outstanding balances, while not taking on new obligations.
Content Source: Federal Trade Commission www.ftc.com
Equifax
1-800-685-1111
www.equifax.com
Experian
1-888-397-3742
www.experian.com
TransUnion
1-800-888-4213
www.transunion.com
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