It's important for every consumer to learn what a credit score is and how to improve it. Most consumers do not know what their credit scores are, but these scores are used in dealings with such diverse agencies as credit card companies, home equity lenders, auto loan lenders, and finance companies when considering appications for credit or loans.
Credit scores are usually calculated by a computer model created, most often, by Fair, Isaac & Company (or "FICO," leading to the common generic term "FICO score"). A credit score is intended to be a predictive summary of a loan applicant's credit history. A low score can mean denial of a credit card or loan, or if the application is accepted, a higher interest rate. Also, some lenders use credit scores and other information to set the "price" for processing a loan. Statistically, low credit scores also correlate with other risky behaviors such as fraud and auto accidents.
There a many factors affecting the final credit score. Payment history accounts for 35%. A credit score is negatively affected by a history of late payment of bills, accounts sent to collection agencies, or declared bankruptcy. The more recent the problem, the lower the score -- a 30-day late payment a month ago has more effect than a bankruptcy five years ago.
Outstanding debt accounts for 30%. If the amount owing is close to the consumer's credit limit, this will likely to have a negative effect on the credit score. A low balance on two cards is better than a high balance on one.
Length of credit history accounts for 15%. The longer the accounts have been open, the better.
Recent credit report inquiries account for 10%. If the applicant has recently applied for many new accounts, that may negatively affect the score. Promotional inquiries do not have any effect.
Types of credit in use accounts for 10%. Loans from finance companies generally lower the credit score. FICO finds this more important when there is less of other types of credit information about the applicant upon which to base a score.
Although this is a general guide as to what credit scoring companies deem important, it should be noted that some companies may consider different factors.
Credit scores range from 300 to 900, with an average of approximately 750. According to the model, as the score increases, the risk of default decreases. Studies by the loan industry show a direct correlation between low scores and high default rates. Therefor, it may be difficult for an applicant with a low score to convince a creditor to offer an affordable loan, or even any loan at all. But just as credit history can vary from credit bureau to credit bureau, so can a credit scores. It is possible to have a high score with one credit bureau (Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion) and a low credit score with another, just as it is possible to have a clean credit history with one bureau and a sullied record with another.
However, extremely wide-ranging credit scores are uncommon, though variations of up to 100 points have been noted by some lenders. To get an accurate picture, lenders often take the average of all the applicant's scores. Narrow ranges of 20 or 25 points are more common.
Consumers may obtain their credit scores from credit bureaus by paying a fee (the Federal Trade Commission sets the fee). The bureau must provide the score, the range of possible scores under the scoring model used, four key factors that affected the score, the date on which the score was created, and the name of the entity that provided the score (such as Fair, Isaac). Note that the score and the scoring model provided may vary from those a given lender uses. Federal law allows consumers three freee credit reports every year. If you get your credit score from one or more credit scorers, remember that the score may vary from one credit score company to the next.
Fair, Isaac offers several reccommendations to consumers seeking to improve their credit scores. Pay bills on time; make up missed payments and keep all payments current. Maintain low balances on credit cards and other "revolving debt". Maintain the "balance-to-limit ratio" of credit cards below 50%. It is usually better to carry smaller balances on several cards than to pile everything onto one card. Apply for a new card if necessary, rather than piling all purchases onto one.
Pay off debts rather than transferring them to a new account. Don't close a rarely-used credit account without opening a new one, as a history of wisely-used credit boosts the credit score. However, do not apply for new, unneeded credit cards just to increase available credit.
Loan applicants should not give up seeking credit just because of a low credit score. Sometimes credit reports contain errors, and it is possible to obtain a copy of the report, fix the problem, and explain the situation to the lender. The majority of lenders will override credit scores if they feel an applicant is a good credit risk despite a low credit score.
About the Author:
J Schipper is interested in Credit Student Loans Cash Advance
Source: www.isnare.com
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Your Guide On Choosing a Credit Card To Suit You
Reach into your wallet or purse, pull out a card, swipe, and you're done. It is very easy to use a credit card. The problem lies in choosing a card – and it has nothing to do with the picture on the front! Choosing a credit card that works best for you is vital to your credit rating. If you choose incorrectly, you may find yourself in deep debt trouble. Here is some basic, yet extremely important, information that will help you make the right choice.
Your Money Handling Habits
Choosing a credit card that is perfect for one person may be a dismal failure for you because your habits are different. When it comes to choosing your credit card, you need to look very closely and honestly at your habits.
For instance, do you typically carry a balance or do you pay off the card at the end of each month? If you answered �yes� then you will need to shop for:
A low Annual Percentage Rate (APR). The APR the interest rate you will pay on any outstanding balances each month. The higher the rate, the more you will pay in interest charges.
A fixed-low rate. This means that they will guarantee that your rate will stay low. Oftentimes, a company will offer a low introductory rate to get you signed up and then increase the rates drastically in 3, 6, or 9 months. The problem with a guaranteed rate is that an annual fee often accompanies it. You will need to decide if the lower interest rate guarantee is worth the cost of the annual fee.
If you will be paying off your card at the end of each month, you will not have to worry as much about a low APR since you will not be using it. And with no need for a guarantee, you may be able to avoid yearly fees. However, you will want to be sure to get a card with a grace period.
Grace Period: Be careful to get a card that allows you to pay off your bill at the end of the month with no finance charges. Those that don't offer the standard grace period begin charging you interest the moment you make a purchase.
Cash Advance Fees: Be aware that most cards charge interest, and sometimes at a higher rate, for cash advances and this charge begins with no grace period even if your card offers a grace period for purchases.
You also need to decide how reliable you will be when it comes to paying on time and keeping yourself under the card limit. If you are often late paying your bills or often do not know how much credit you have left, you will want to watch out for transaction fees and other charges. Many card companies charge a late fee and an over-the-limit fee. These can be substantial. Your best bet is to pay on time and keep under the limit, however, finding a card with lower charges is a good idea.
Here is another important question to consider when looking at your money handling habits: Do you use the card rarely, occasionally, regularly, or frequently? Those that use their cards for just about everything instead of using cash or checks will want to look for credit card protection. This way, if you lose your card or it is stolen, you will not be responsible for any purchases made.
Finally, consider the different benefit programs that cards are offering.
Do you travel? Then consider a card with frequent travel miles as a reward. Or perhaps one that offers traveler's insurance.
Do you use your card for large purchases like electronics? You may want to consider credit card insurance that will replace your equipment for a specified period of time if it breaks down or gets stolen.
Are you saving to buy a new car? There are cards that offer new car rebates.
Do you have a favorite charity? Many cards now support specific charities, universities, and organizations by paying the entity a specific amount with each purchase you make.
What matters most is to find the features that fit your pattern of spending and paying. Don't get fooled by the gimmicks or the advertisements. Know your spending habits, look at the small print, and choose the card that is best for you. With all the different cards available, you will be able to find the right fit for you.
Wesley Atkins is the owner of http://www.credit-cards-advisor.com- which aims to get you fitted with the best credit cards to suit your situation. With numerous credit card articles and easy online credit card applications you will never choose the wrong credit card again.
Your Money Handling Habits
Choosing a credit card that is perfect for one person may be a dismal failure for you because your habits are different. When it comes to choosing your credit card, you need to look very closely and honestly at your habits.
For instance, do you typically carry a balance or do you pay off the card at the end of each month? If you answered �yes� then you will need to shop for:
A low Annual Percentage Rate (APR). The APR the interest rate you will pay on any outstanding balances each month. The higher the rate, the more you will pay in interest charges.
A fixed-low rate. This means that they will guarantee that your rate will stay low. Oftentimes, a company will offer a low introductory rate to get you signed up and then increase the rates drastically in 3, 6, or 9 months. The problem with a guaranteed rate is that an annual fee often accompanies it. You will need to decide if the lower interest rate guarantee is worth the cost of the annual fee.
If you will be paying off your card at the end of each month, you will not have to worry as much about a low APR since you will not be using it. And with no need for a guarantee, you may be able to avoid yearly fees. However, you will want to be sure to get a card with a grace period.
Grace Period: Be careful to get a card that allows you to pay off your bill at the end of the month with no finance charges. Those that don't offer the standard grace period begin charging you interest the moment you make a purchase.
Cash Advance Fees: Be aware that most cards charge interest, and sometimes at a higher rate, for cash advances and this charge begins with no grace period even if your card offers a grace period for purchases.
You also need to decide how reliable you will be when it comes to paying on time and keeping yourself under the card limit. If you are often late paying your bills or often do not know how much credit you have left, you will want to watch out for transaction fees and other charges. Many card companies charge a late fee and an over-the-limit fee. These can be substantial. Your best bet is to pay on time and keep under the limit, however, finding a card with lower charges is a good idea.
Here is another important question to consider when looking at your money handling habits: Do you use the card rarely, occasionally, regularly, or frequently? Those that use their cards for just about everything instead of using cash or checks will want to look for credit card protection. This way, if you lose your card or it is stolen, you will not be responsible for any purchases made.
Finally, consider the different benefit programs that cards are offering.
Do you travel? Then consider a card with frequent travel miles as a reward. Or perhaps one that offers traveler's insurance.
Do you use your card for large purchases like electronics? You may want to consider credit card insurance that will replace your equipment for a specified period of time if it breaks down or gets stolen.
Are you saving to buy a new car? There are cards that offer new car rebates.
Do you have a favorite charity? Many cards now support specific charities, universities, and organizations by paying the entity a specific amount with each purchase you make.
What matters most is to find the features that fit your pattern of spending and paying. Don't get fooled by the gimmicks or the advertisements. Know your spending habits, look at the small print, and choose the card that is best for you. With all the different cards available, you will be able to find the right fit for you.
Wesley Atkins is the owner of http://www.credit-cards-advisor.com- which aims to get you fitted with the best credit cards to suit your situation. With numerous credit card articles and easy online credit card applications you will never choose the wrong credit card again.
Your Guide to Credit Repair Services
There are many people today that are in great need of having their credit repaired. There can be many reasons why people need there credit repaired. Some people have bad credit due to medical bills. Some people just made poor spending decisions. Some people were victims of credit fraud. Some people just had no idea there was even a problem with their credit until they tried to apply for something. Whatever the reasons may be, they need help repairing their credit. This is why they need the help of credit repair services. If you are not sure what credit repair services are, then let this be your guide to credit repair services.
Credit repair services are not free. This is because many things are involved in repairing your credit. This includes monitoring of your credit reports, changing inaccuracies, removing bills that have been paid that show up on your credit, etc. It also involves being in constant contact with the credit reporting agencies: Experian, Trans Union, and Exquifax.
Credit repair is very time consuming, this is why also why credit repair services must charge a fee. The fee will vary depending on where you go for you credit repair services. Some credit repair services offer a free 30 day trial. Some offer guarantees of free credit repair or your money back. All and all, you should estimate paying a fee of $399.99 for credit repair services. This is the average fee that most charge. Some cost quite a bit more.
Another thing that credit repair services often offer is a way to help you consolidate you debt so that you can more easily repair your credit. Most people that are in need of credit repair services have a lot of debt and bills on their credit report. Debt consolidation combines all of your bills together and you make one payment to one lender instead of several payments to several lenders. This saves you money on interest rates and helps so that your debt doesn't get higher. With debt consolidation, these bills are more easily paid and thus you can repair your credit.
You can find credit repair services in many ways. You can find many online or you can check your local yellow pages. Be sure to do your research before selecting a credit repair service as some charge more than others. There are also non profit credit repair services that are available to help those of you with little or no income.
The above was all of the information you need to get you started in finding a credit repair service. Repairing your credit can be a difficult and scary ordeal. But with the help of credit repair services, the task can be much more easily obtained. This will save you from much stress and ease the difficulties you may be suffering.
Morgan Hamilton offers expert advice and great tips regarding all aspects concerning Credit Repair. Get the information you are seeking now by visiting Credit Repair Services
About the Author
Morgan Hamilton offers expert advice and great tips regarding all aspects concerning Credit Repair. Get the information you are seeking now by visiting http://www.creditrepairoutline.info
Credit repair services are not free. This is because many things are involved in repairing your credit. This includes monitoring of your credit reports, changing inaccuracies, removing bills that have been paid that show up on your credit, etc. It also involves being in constant contact with the credit reporting agencies: Experian, Trans Union, and Exquifax.
Credit repair is very time consuming, this is why also why credit repair services must charge a fee. The fee will vary depending on where you go for you credit repair services. Some credit repair services offer a free 30 day trial. Some offer guarantees of free credit repair or your money back. All and all, you should estimate paying a fee of $399.99 for credit repair services. This is the average fee that most charge. Some cost quite a bit more.
Another thing that credit repair services often offer is a way to help you consolidate you debt so that you can more easily repair your credit. Most people that are in need of credit repair services have a lot of debt and bills on their credit report. Debt consolidation combines all of your bills together and you make one payment to one lender instead of several payments to several lenders. This saves you money on interest rates and helps so that your debt doesn't get higher. With debt consolidation, these bills are more easily paid and thus you can repair your credit.
You can find credit repair services in many ways. You can find many online or you can check your local yellow pages. Be sure to do your research before selecting a credit repair service as some charge more than others. There are also non profit credit repair services that are available to help those of you with little or no income.
The above was all of the information you need to get you started in finding a credit repair service. Repairing your credit can be a difficult and scary ordeal. But with the help of credit repair services, the task can be much more easily obtained. This will save you from much stress and ease the difficulties you may be suffering.
Morgan Hamilton offers expert advice and great tips regarding all aspects concerning Credit Repair. Get the information you are seeking now by visiting Credit Repair Services
About the Author
Morgan Hamilton offers expert advice and great tips regarding all aspects concerning Credit Repair. Get the information you are seeking now by visiting http://www.creditrepairoutline.info
Your Home Equity Credit Lines
Do you need to borrow money? Home equity lines may be one source of credit. Home equity credit lines may provide you with large amounts of cash at a low interest rate and they may provide you with certain tax advantages with other loans.
Home equity lines of credit require you to use your home as collateral for the loan. This may put your home at risk if you are late or cannot make your monthly payments. Those loans with a large final (balloon) payment may lead you to borrow more money to pay off this credit line, or they may put your home in jeopardy if you cannot qualify for other refinancing. If you sell your home, most plans require you to pay off your credit line at the time of closing. In addition, because home equity loans give you relatively easy access to cash, you might find you borrow money more often.
Remember too, there are other ways to borrow money from a lender. For example, you may want to explore second mortgage installment loans. Although these plans also place an additional mortgage on your home, second mortgage money usually is loaned in a lump sum, rather than in a series of advances made available by writing checks on debts. Also, second mortgages usually have fixed interest rates and fixed payment amounts.
You also may want to explore borrowing from credit lines that do not use your home as collateral. These credit lines may be a better option for you and your situation. These are available with your credit cards or with unsecured credit lines that let you write checks as you need the money. In addition, you may want to ask about loans for specific items, such as tuition, cars, and those nasty credit cards. Either way, home equity lines can be useful if done the right way.
About the author:
Copyright Troy Francis. Troy is a writer and real estate broker for Century Mortgages. Please feel free to republish this article. We only ask that you leave the link active. You many see more articles like this by going to: http://www.CenturyMortgages.org
Home equity lines of credit require you to use your home as collateral for the loan. This may put your home at risk if you are late or cannot make your monthly payments. Those loans with a large final (balloon) payment may lead you to borrow more money to pay off this credit line, or they may put your home in jeopardy if you cannot qualify for other refinancing. If you sell your home, most plans require you to pay off your credit line at the time of closing. In addition, because home equity loans give you relatively easy access to cash, you might find you borrow money more often.
Remember too, there are other ways to borrow money from a lender. For example, you may want to explore second mortgage installment loans. Although these plans also place an additional mortgage on your home, second mortgage money usually is loaned in a lump sum, rather than in a series of advances made available by writing checks on debts. Also, second mortgages usually have fixed interest rates and fixed payment amounts.
You also may want to explore borrowing from credit lines that do not use your home as collateral. These credit lines may be a better option for you and your situation. These are available with your credit cards or with unsecured credit lines that let you write checks as you need the money. In addition, you may want to ask about loans for specific items, such as tuition, cars, and those nasty credit cards. Either way, home equity lines can be useful if done the right way.
About the author:
Copyright Troy Francis. Troy is a writer and real estate broker for Century Mortgages. Please feel free to republish this article. We only ask that you leave the link active. You many see more articles like this by going to: http://www.CenturyMortgages.org
Your Legal Right To Free Credit Reports From The 3 Major Credit Bureau`s, Online TODAY!
Free Credit Reports; Soon you'll be able to get your credit report 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.
Free Credit Reports Now!
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.
About the Author
www.debt-elimination-program-reviews.com is run by Vincent Dail. They review and then list some of the best debt elimination, programs, software and books available online!
Visit: www.debt-elimination-program-reviews.com/goarticles
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.
Free Credit Reports Now!
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.
About the Author
www.debt-elimination-program-reviews.com is run by Vincent Dail. They review and then list some of the best debt elimination, programs, software and books available online!
Visit: www.debt-elimination-program-reviews.com/goarticles
Your Own Credit Repair Business
Your Own Credit Repair Business
If you are considering starting your own credit repair business, or you already own your own credit repair business, you mat have played with the idea of purchasing credit repair leads.
Having your own credit repair business allows for you to obtain business for credit repair on many levels. However, with credit repair leads, the customer is basically looking for, and asking for your help.
With a credit repair lead, you will have a potential customer who is serious about having repair work done to their credit report. Otherwise, they never would have come as far as putting a phone number or e-mail out there for contact purposes.
These potential customers are not merely thinking about it, or just playing with the idea, they are truly serious and they are waiting on a phone call from your own credit repair business.
Of all the credit repair business opportunities available for your own credit repair business, purchasing credit repair leads is perhaps one of the best. Basically, the potential customer has come to you, and provided you with their information before you have even made contact.
Keep in mind, like all business opportunities, credit repair business opportunities for your own credit repair business need to be researched before any kind of commitment or investment is involved.
If you are considering purchasing credit repair leads for your own credit repair business, be sure to research the company you are purchasing them from.
Call and speak with one of their customer service rep's and find out how they obtain their credit repair leads and what the process is for obtaining them in a timely fashion.
About the author:
Jay Conners is the owner of two mortgage related lead sites where he obtains leads from people looking for credit repair. Please visit his sites at http://www.callprospect.com/credit_repair_leads.html And http://www.callprospect.com
If you are considering starting your own credit repair business, or you already own your own credit repair business, you mat have played with the idea of purchasing credit repair leads.
Having your own credit repair business allows for you to obtain business for credit repair on many levels. However, with credit repair leads, the customer is basically looking for, and asking for your help.
With a credit repair lead, you will have a potential customer who is serious about having repair work done to their credit report. Otherwise, they never would have come as far as putting a phone number or e-mail out there for contact purposes.
These potential customers are not merely thinking about it, or just playing with the idea, they are truly serious and they are waiting on a phone call from your own credit repair business.
Of all the credit repair business opportunities available for your own credit repair business, purchasing credit repair leads is perhaps one of the best. Basically, the potential customer has come to you, and provided you with their information before you have even made contact.
Keep in mind, like all business opportunities, credit repair business opportunities for your own credit repair business need to be researched before any kind of commitment or investment is involved.
If you are considering purchasing credit repair leads for your own credit repair business, be sure to research the company you are purchasing them from.
Call and speak with one of their customer service rep's and find out how they obtain their credit repair leads and what the process is for obtaining them in a timely fashion.
About the author:
Jay Conners is the owner of two mortgage related lead sites where he obtains leads from people looking for credit repair. Please visit his sites at http://www.callprospect.com/credit_repair_leads.html And http://www.callprospect.com
Your Rights Under The Equal Credit Opportunity Act
It wasn't all that long ago that lenders blatantly discriminated when it came to approving credit for women and minority groups. Women were actually asked personal and demeaning questions like, how many children do you plan to have in the future or are you on birth control?
Despite the fact that they were entering the workforce in record numbers, single women were often required to get a cosigner or denied credit altogether. Members of minority groups were denied credit as well, even though they were fully qualified.
Today thanks to the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, millions of consumers from all walks of life are given and equal chance to obtain and use credit to finance educations, buy or remodel homes or get small business loans.
The Equal Credit Opportunity Act, which was passed by congress in 1973 first banned discrimination in credit access on the basis of sex or marital status and was later amended to include race, religion, national origin and age. Of course, this doesn't mean all consumers who apply for credit get it. Factors such as income, expenses, debt and credit history are considerations for credit worthiness.
But the law protects you when you deal with any creditor who regularly extends credit, including banks, small loan and finance companies, retail and department stores, credit card companies, and credit unions. Anyone involved in granting credit, such as real estate brokers who arrange financing, is covered by the law. Businesses applying for credit also are protected by the law.
When You Apply For Credit, A Creditor May Not.
Discourage you from applying for credit because of your sex, marital status, age, race, national origin, or because you receive public assistance income.
Ask you to reveal your sex, race, national origin, or religion. A creditor may ask you to voluntarily disclose this information, except for religion if you're applying for a real estate loan. This information helps federal agencies enforce anti discrimination laws. You may be asked about your residence or immigration status.
Ask if you're widowed or divorced. When permitted to ask marital status, a creditor may only use the terms: married, unmarried, or separated.
Ask about your marital status if you're applying for a separate, unsecured account. A creditor may ask you to provide this information if you live in community property states, Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, and Washington. A creditor in any state may ask for this information if you apply for a joint credit account or one secured by property.
Request information about your spouse, except when your spouse is applying for credit with you. Note: your spouse will be allowed to use the credit account. You are relying on your spouse's income or on alimony or child support income from a former spouse; or if you reside in a community property state.
Inquire about your plans for having or raising children.
Ask if you receive alimony, child support, or separate maintenance payments, unless you're first told that, you don't have to provide this information if you won't rely on these payments to get credit. A creditor may ask if you have to pay alimony, child support, or separate maintenance payments.
A Special Note To Women
A good credit history, a record of how you paid past bills often is necessary to get credit. Unfortunately, this hurts many married, separated, divorced, and widowed women. There are two common reasons women don't have credit histories in their own names: they lost their credit histories when they married and changed their names, or creditors reported accounts shared by married couples in the husband's name only.
If you're married, divorced, separated, or widowed, contact the credit bureaus to make sure all relevant information is in a file under your own name.
To find additional rights you have, what a creditor may not do: when deciding to give you credit or evaluating your income for credit and what to do if you suspect discrimination visit: http://www.creditandyou.com/yourcreditrights.html it's a free information website!
About the Author
To find additional rights you have, what a creditor may not do: when deciding to give you credit or evaluating your income for credit and what to do if you suspect discrimination visit: http://www.creditandyou.com/yourcreditrights.html it's a free information website!
Despite the fact that they were entering the workforce in record numbers, single women were often required to get a cosigner or denied credit altogether. Members of minority groups were denied credit as well, even though they were fully qualified.
Today thanks to the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, millions of consumers from all walks of life are given and equal chance to obtain and use credit to finance educations, buy or remodel homes or get small business loans.
The Equal Credit Opportunity Act, which was passed by congress in 1973 first banned discrimination in credit access on the basis of sex or marital status and was later amended to include race, religion, national origin and age. Of course, this doesn't mean all consumers who apply for credit get it. Factors such as income, expenses, debt and credit history are considerations for credit worthiness.
But the law protects you when you deal with any creditor who regularly extends credit, including banks, small loan and finance companies, retail and department stores, credit card companies, and credit unions. Anyone involved in granting credit, such as real estate brokers who arrange financing, is covered by the law. Businesses applying for credit also are protected by the law.
When You Apply For Credit, A Creditor May Not.
Discourage you from applying for credit because of your sex, marital status, age, race, national origin, or because you receive public assistance income.
Ask you to reveal your sex, race, national origin, or religion. A creditor may ask you to voluntarily disclose this information, except for religion if you're applying for a real estate loan. This information helps federal agencies enforce anti discrimination laws. You may be asked about your residence or immigration status.
Ask if you're widowed or divorced. When permitted to ask marital status, a creditor may only use the terms: married, unmarried, or separated.
Ask about your marital status if you're applying for a separate, unsecured account. A creditor may ask you to provide this information if you live in community property states, Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, and Washington. A creditor in any state may ask for this information if you apply for a joint credit account or one secured by property.
Request information about your spouse, except when your spouse is applying for credit with you. Note: your spouse will be allowed to use the credit account. You are relying on your spouse's income or on alimony or child support income from a former spouse; or if you reside in a community property state.
Inquire about your plans for having or raising children.
Ask if you receive alimony, child support, or separate maintenance payments, unless you're first told that, you don't have to provide this information if you won't rely on these payments to get credit. A creditor may ask if you have to pay alimony, child support, or separate maintenance payments.
A Special Note To Women
A good credit history, a record of how you paid past bills often is necessary to get credit. Unfortunately, this hurts many married, separated, divorced, and widowed women. There are two common reasons women don't have credit histories in their own names: they lost their credit histories when they married and changed their names, or creditors reported accounts shared by married couples in the husband's name only.
If you're married, divorced, separated, or widowed, contact the credit bureaus to make sure all relevant information is in a file under your own name.
To find additional rights you have, what a creditor may not do: when deciding to give you credit or evaluating your income for credit and what to do if you suspect discrimination visit: http://www.creditandyou.com/yourcreditrights.html it's a free information website!
About the Author
To find additional rights you have, what a creditor may not do: when deciding to give you credit or evaluating your income for credit and what to do if you suspect discrimination visit: http://www.creditandyou.com/yourcreditrights.html it's a free information website!
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Zero Interest Credit Cards
There are many different types of credit cards to choose from including low interest, balance transfer, instant approval,reward, airline, corporate, prepaid, and even student credit cards. Obviously, you consider many factors when determining the best offer for you. Chief among these factors are all the different rates associated with each offer including the APR (annual percentage rate), the annual fee if there is one as well as other cardholder benefits.
Bear in mind
-Low interest credit cards have either a low APR or a low introductory APR. A low interest rate credit card can be a good choice for people who tend to either leave an outstanding balance on their credit cards or tend to pay their bills late.
- Low interest credit cards can also help save money by reducing interest and finance charges.
- Cardholders who tend to carry an outstanding balance on a credit card with a high interest rate may also benefit by applying for a low interest credit card for balance transfers. Simply put, with balance transfer credit cards, you can transfer a balance from an existing high interest credit card to a low 0% APR interest rate credit card.
Benefits that 0% cards should include
- There ought to be 0% introductory APR for at least the first 12 months and no annual fee. A typical example would be the HSBC Bank Platinum MasterCard
- special schemes like a rebate program, whereby cardholders earn a cash award that varies according to the amount spent annually. For instance, a cardholder may be awarded a 0.25% rebate for the first $1,000; 0.5% for amounts over $1,000 and up to $3,000; and 1.5% for purchases over $3,000 up to $10,000. An additional rebate may be added for any billing period in which the account carries a balance, so that only those who spend up to $10,000 a year and carry a balance will be able to take advantage of the 2% cash back rebate. A good example of this is the Chase Bank Cash Plus Visa
- If you have a good credit history, the introductory rate for purchases should be long-term, say 15 months.
- Look for benefits like purchase protection, smart card technology, discounts at certain merchants and retailers, a year-end financial statement, and various travel and emergency assistance services.
- Watch out for schemes like optional free rewards programs. For every dollar spent on your card, for example, you earn one point. Earned points can be applied to a variety of services and products. There is no yearly limit or expiration on points earned. As an example, Blue from American Express offers you this benefit. Looks like a good deal
- Several zero interest cards offer merchandise rewards on items such as toys, DVDs, clothing, jewelry, household items and gifts. You can also receive travel rewards on items such as theme park tickets, hotel stays, and cruises. Plus, of course, there will be 0% introductory APR for a certain period on card purchases and balance transfers.
- There are cards that offer a 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers for up to 12 months, a high credit limit and no annual fees. You can also get a customized card with your business name plus online account management benefits
- Many card companies offer zero interest cards for those with "bad credit". So you can spend within limits and re-establish your credit. Usually, such cards do not run credit checks and avoid credit turndowns. There is also usually no application fee involved. Moreover, on-time payments are reported to one or more than one major credit bureaus on a regular basis.
- Other cards offer unsecured cash advance loans up to a certain amount. Along with that, there may be offers of "guaranteed emergency cash" that you never have to pay back, and guarantees of no turndowns, no annual fees and no credit checks
However, it is important to read the fine print before you make a decision, so that you aren't caught in a loophole later!
About the author:
Author - Marcus Grant Credit Card Debt
www.credit-cards-for-teens.net
Bear in mind
-Low interest credit cards have either a low APR or a low introductory APR. A low interest rate credit card can be a good choice for people who tend to either leave an outstanding balance on their credit cards or tend to pay their bills late.
- Low interest credit cards can also help save money by reducing interest and finance charges.
- Cardholders who tend to carry an outstanding balance on a credit card with a high interest rate may also benefit by applying for a low interest credit card for balance transfers. Simply put, with balance transfer credit cards, you can transfer a balance from an existing high interest credit card to a low 0% APR interest rate credit card.
Benefits that 0% cards should include
- There ought to be 0% introductory APR for at least the first 12 months and no annual fee. A typical example would be the HSBC Bank Platinum MasterCard
- special schemes like a rebate program, whereby cardholders earn a cash award that varies according to the amount spent annually. For instance, a cardholder may be awarded a 0.25% rebate for the first $1,000; 0.5% for amounts over $1,000 and up to $3,000; and 1.5% for purchases over $3,000 up to $10,000. An additional rebate may be added for any billing period in which the account carries a balance, so that only those who spend up to $10,000 a year and carry a balance will be able to take advantage of the 2% cash back rebate. A good example of this is the Chase Bank Cash Plus Visa
- If you have a good credit history, the introductory rate for purchases should be long-term, say 15 months.
- Look for benefits like purchase protection, smart card technology, discounts at certain merchants and retailers, a year-end financial statement, and various travel and emergency assistance services.
- Watch out for schemes like optional free rewards programs. For every dollar spent on your card, for example, you earn one point. Earned points can be applied to a variety of services and products. There is no yearly limit or expiration on points earned. As an example, Blue from American Express offers you this benefit. Looks like a good deal
- Several zero interest cards offer merchandise rewards on items such as toys, DVDs, clothing, jewelry, household items and gifts. You can also receive travel rewards on items such as theme park tickets, hotel stays, and cruises. Plus, of course, there will be 0% introductory APR for a certain period on card purchases and balance transfers.
- There are cards that offer a 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers for up to 12 months, a high credit limit and no annual fees. You can also get a customized card with your business name plus online account management benefits
- Many card companies offer zero interest cards for those with "bad credit". So you can spend within limits and re-establish your credit. Usually, such cards do not run credit checks and avoid credit turndowns. There is also usually no application fee involved. Moreover, on-time payments are reported to one or more than one major credit bureaus on a regular basis.
- Other cards offer unsecured cash advance loans up to a certain amount. Along with that, there may be offers of "guaranteed emergency cash" that you never have to pay back, and guarantees of no turndowns, no annual fees and no credit checks
However, it is important to read the fine print before you make a decision, so that you aren't caught in a loophole later!
About the author:
Author - Marcus Grant Credit Card Debt
www.credit-cards-for-teens.net
Zero Percent Credit Cards
When searching for a 0 apr credit card, one with 0% annual percentage rate (apr) for a trial period, one of the best ways to find a good deal is to compare the credit card rate of several sites. One way to find reliable sites is to start with a bank credit card. Bank of America, Citibank, and many others offer endless resources online for credit card comparisons. You can find out annual fees, interest rates, balance transfer rates, and interest-free periods for each card to get the best credit card rate.
If you want to apply online for a 0 apr credit card, you will find the convenience of Internet shopping a great benefit. No need to wait for offers to arrive in the mail or to call various lenders for their current terms and policies. All the information you need is at your fingertips on the computer. The bank credit card offers should be up to date with current interest rates listed and all the policies and terms available to read online.
With new safety features, a bank credit card website is usually secure enough for your personal information that you must include on an application. But always look for the little gold lock symbol in the lower right hand corner of your computer screen to be sure that a site is secure before you enter anything on a form.
Applying online for the best credit card rate is great for people who don't have a credit history or who haven't established a good history. These people may not receive credit card offers in the mail and need a place to look for good deals.
Also, you can compare rates until you find that 0 apr credit card you're looking for. This type of card is great for balance transfers. You wind up with one payment instead of several each month, and you get a grace period of anywhere from six to twelve months during which you do not have to pay any interest on either your transferred balances or your new purchases.
But beware. Many lenders offer a 0 apr credit card as an incentive to get you signed up. Be sure to note when this trial period ends; usually after the rate rises you're stuck paying much higher interest than with most other cards. Remember that you can find a credit card that has lower interest after your trial period ends, so do not stop making notes about cards you like just because you have found your no interest card. You will need another one in less than a year usually.
Some no interest cards even come with cash back rewards. These cards give you a percentage of your purchase amount back each month. So you not only get no interest, but you earn points with every dollar you spend that you can use toward purchasing name brand merchandise, travel perks, and entertainment.
Overall, when looking for a 0 apr credit card or just trying to find the best credit card rate with your credit history,remember to keep trying until you find one that suits all your needs.
About the author: Thomas Ohlum is the owner of http://www.find-solid-credit.com a website providing information about credit card offers and finance aspects to consider when applying for a credit card.
If you want to apply online for a 0 apr credit card, you will find the convenience of Internet shopping a great benefit. No need to wait for offers to arrive in the mail or to call various lenders for their current terms and policies. All the information you need is at your fingertips on the computer. The bank credit card offers should be up to date with current interest rates listed and all the policies and terms available to read online.
With new safety features, a bank credit card website is usually secure enough for your personal information that you must include on an application. But always look for the little gold lock symbol in the lower right hand corner of your computer screen to be sure that a site is secure before you enter anything on a form.
Applying online for the best credit card rate is great for people who don't have a credit history or who haven't established a good history. These people may not receive credit card offers in the mail and need a place to look for good deals.
Also, you can compare rates until you find that 0 apr credit card you're looking for. This type of card is great for balance transfers. You wind up with one payment instead of several each month, and you get a grace period of anywhere from six to twelve months during which you do not have to pay any interest on either your transferred balances or your new purchases.
But beware. Many lenders offer a 0 apr credit card as an incentive to get you signed up. Be sure to note when this trial period ends; usually after the rate rises you're stuck paying much higher interest than with most other cards. Remember that you can find a credit card that has lower interest after your trial period ends, so do not stop making notes about cards you like just because you have found your no interest card. You will need another one in less than a year usually.
Some no interest cards even come with cash back rewards. These cards give you a percentage of your purchase amount back each month. So you not only get no interest, but you earn points with every dollar you spend that you can use toward purchasing name brand merchandise, travel perks, and entertainment.
Overall, when looking for a 0 apr credit card or just trying to find the best credit card rate with your credit history,remember to keep trying until you find one that suits all your needs.
About the author: Thomas Ohlum is the owner of http://www.find-solid-credit.com a website providing information about credit card offers and finance aspects to consider when applying for a credit card.
Zero Percent Interest Credit Cards - How To Get Approved
Zero percent interest is a very attractive credit card feature that gains a lot of attention. Although credit cards have the potential of becoming a dangerous tool, they do have practical uses. For example, credit cards allow easy transactions when purchasing items online. Furthermore, credit cards are great to have when having cash flow problems. However, because of high interest rates, many consumers avoid using credit cards. Fortunately, there is a way to take advantage of credit cards without getting hit with a high interest rate.
What are Zero Percent Interest Credit Cards?
Perhaps you have seen a credit card offer featuring 0% percent interest. These types of credit cards are offered by several big name credit card lenders including Citi, Discover, and American Express. If you have good credit, a 0% interest credit card has many perks. Of course, the rate does not always remain at 0%. This is called an introductory rate. In other words, you can expect to pay 0% on all purchases for the first six or twelve months. At the conclusion of the interest-free period, applicants will pay a higher rate.
How to Get Approved for a Zero Percent Interest Credit Card
To get approved for a zero percent interest credit card, you must have good credit. Each lender has a different definition of good credit. Before applying for a zero percent interest credit card, contact the creditor and inquire about their credit approval guidelines. This way, you avoid unnecessary credit inquiries. Also, before submitting application, carefully read the terms of agreement. This section includes pertinent information such as late fees, over-the-limit-fees, penalties for late payments, etc. If acquiring a 0% interest credit card, do not submit late payments. By doing so, the creditor may immediately end the interest-free period. Moreover, being late on another credit account provides creditors just cause to end a 0% interest agreement.
Advantages of Zero Percent Interest Cards
Zero percent interest credit cards are ideal for financing large purchases in which you plan to payoff in a few short months. These cards are more practical than using high interest credit cards or obtaining a personal bank loan.
What are Zero Percent Interest Credit Cards?
Perhaps you have seen a credit card offer featuring 0% percent interest. These types of credit cards are offered by several big name credit card lenders including Citi, Discover, and American Express. If you have good credit, a 0% interest credit card has many perks. Of course, the rate does not always remain at 0%. This is called an introductory rate. In other words, you can expect to pay 0% on all purchases for the first six or twelve months. At the conclusion of the interest-free period, applicants will pay a higher rate.
How to Get Approved for a Zero Percent Interest Credit Card
To get approved for a zero percent interest credit card, you must have good credit. Each lender has a different definition of good credit. Before applying for a zero percent interest credit card, contact the creditor and inquire about their credit approval guidelines. This way, you avoid unnecessary credit inquiries. Also, before submitting application, carefully read the terms of agreement. This section includes pertinent information such as late fees, over-the-limit-fees, penalties for late payments, etc. If acquiring a 0% interest credit card, do not submit late payments. By doing so, the creditor may immediately end the interest-free period. Moreover, being late on another credit account provides creditors just cause to end a 0% interest agreement.
Advantages of Zero Percent Interest Cards
Zero percent interest credit cards are ideal for financing large purchases in which you plan to payoff in a few short months. These cards are more practical than using high interest credit cards or obtaining a personal bank loan.
About the Author: Visit http://www.abcloanguide.com/creditcards.shtml for a list of zero interest credit card companies. View our recommended sources for Zero Interest Credit Cards online.
Source: www.isnare.com
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