We've talked about it a lot, but it is an important subject that needs to be stressed time and time again
. It is very imperative that you continue to work to keep your credit scores high. A lot of people work hard with credit restoration companies and are able to get their terrible credit back in a place where they want it to be.
The trouble happens when the customer falls back in to their bad habits. They don't maintain the good credit that they achieved through credit restoration. This can be very frustrating, especially to customers that really worked hard to achieve credit restoration. Here are some tips for helping maintain good credit once you restore it.
1. Don't get back in heavy debt. Stay on top of your credit balance and keep it below 25%. This is a good rule of thumb. Also remember to only charge items to your credit card that you know you can pay off every month.
2. Take advantage of automatic pay options. Your bills will often have an automatic pay option that deducts money right from your bank account. You can even set it up right after your receive your paycheck so you know there is money in there.
3. Don't put up a lot of credit inquiries. Keep it down to a minimum. You may be used to applying for a few different lines, but stop that habit now. Only apply for lines that are essential and that you know you can pay off.
4. Don't forget to pay your bills. Pay off all your bills, and on time. If you have a problem with this set up the automatic pay option, or make notes around the home, or set up alarms. Do whatever it takes to keep on top of paying off your bills.
5. Don't accept every credit offer that comes your way. Be picky about what lines you use. You want to be sure that you actually need it and know you will be able to afford it and pay it back.
6. Be smart and safe about your credit. Credit can quickly be ruined by others through identity theft. Be sure to have identity theft protection measures to prevent this from easily happening.