subject: Fixing Your Bad Credit When All Hope is Lost [print this page] Fixing Your Bad Credit When All Hope is Lost
It is no secret that credit scores are falling. People are being turned out of their houses and struggling to make ends meet. Just monthly expenses are becoming a burden for the average family. When dealing with how to pay for food, it is hard to care about fixing bad credit. If you can't pay your bills, cleaning up your credit report might not be a top priority. There are some simple and easy things you can do to clean up your credit report. Even when you are struggling, people are going to want to check your credit. If you are looking for a new home, a loan, a car, you are going to need to have a decent credit rating.
The first and most important part of fixing credit score is to pay your bills on time. Paying bills late is a vicious cycle, because the credit card company adds on huge penalty fines. They will also report the late payment on your credit report. Avoid extra penalty fees by getting your payments in on time, for at least the minimum amounts. If you have too much trouble getting your payments out on time, set up automatic payments.
If you have credit cards that are above, or close to, their maximum limit, pay them off first. Ideally, your credit cards should have at least 30 percent of the balance available. Request copies of your credit reports. Most people have mistakes on their credit reports that they are not even aware of. Know what is on your report and get any mistakes removed.
If the above steps are beyond what you can manage in your financial situation look into credit counseling. A credit counselor can get your payments lowered, which will make it easier for you to get out from under debt. They will work with you and your creditors to make a payment plan that will work for everyone. This is a great option for people struggling to get out of debt. Often, these agencies will also offer credit counseling, to help you stay out of debt.
If credit counseling doesn't work seeking out a bankruptcy attorney might be your only option. An attorney will be able to tell you if bankruptcy is the right choice for your situation. It can be expensive and time consuming, but many find that it is the only option. Finding a good bankruptcy attorney that will give you a free consultation, will help you determine if this is a right step for you.
