Credit Guide

Library of Credit Articles

Your credit report has information on your financial history - including employment, debts, income and other loans. This report is used by loan officers to determine your loan eligibility and interest rates for purchases of a new home, car or even furniture. The articles in the Credit Guide discuss ways to monitor your credit report, improve your credit score, how to fix errors on the report and defines the different types of credit.

• Five Habits That Lead to Debt Trouble
  Debt problems don't appear out of thin air -- they often blossom in a perfect storm of bad financial decisions. Here are five leading ways consumers ruin their credit score.
• How to Make Credit Card Offers Stop Coming
  Pre-approved credit card offers are daily junk mail for most people. Luckily there is a way for consumers to end the bombardment - if they choose.
• Credit Guide: All About Bankruptcy
  Bankruptcy is a tool of last resort. But for those in serious credit trouble, this option can get you on a plan for the future.
• How To Fix Errors On Your Credit Report
  Your credit report should mirror your life as a borrower. But too frequently information gets mixed up and errors land on your record. Here is a little help to get rid of costly mistakes on your credit report.
• Identity Theft: What You Need to Know
  Identity theft is the fastest growing crime in America. According to a survey conducted by the Federal Trade Commission in 2003, almost ten million Americans were victimized. Overall, the damage to the U.S, economy is staggering, with the cost to the U.S. at nearly $53 billion that same year. Here are some of the most common tactics, and how to protect yourself.
• On the Brink of Bankruptcy? Start Downsizing Now!
  An unstable job market has made it more important than ever to get your finances in order. Read on to learn how!
• How Lenders Keep Score of Your Credit
  Your financial life boils down to your credit score. Here is how lenders come up with that number.
• The Four Main Types of Credit: Service Credit, Loans, Installment Credit and Credit Cards
  There are four main types of credit: service credit, loans, installment credit, and credit cards. To keep their finances in top condition, you should learn as much as you can about these credit options.
• The Importance of Having Good Credit
  A person needs to have good credit in order to be considered desirable borrowers by lenders and lending firms. This article describes why good credit is so important.
• Finding and Improving Your Credit Score
  It is important to know your credit score, and, if you are not pleased with it, take the necessary steps to improve it. Read on to find out how!