Three Proven Methods to Improve Your Credit Score

 Posted on November 13, 2014 in San Antonio Bankruptcy Attorney

To say that a person's credit score is important is an understatement. Your score not only affects your ability to take out loans and successfully apply for credit cards, but it also plays a role in applying for insurance, leasing a car, and even getting an apartment. More than just three numbers, a credit score is a measurable value of how trustworthy a person is with money and payments.

For these reasons, you should make every attempt to raise your credit scores as high as possible. Here are some helpful ways to boost and maintain a respectable credit score:

1. Start with What You Have

As mentioned before, it helps to think of a credit score as an indicator of financial responsibility. That said, the road to a better credit score begins by analyzing one's own financial situation. While this may require sitting down with a professional, here are some basic strategies to get started:

• Focus on paying off credit cards by making monthly payments;
• Strive to keep balances low on credit cards;
• Make attempts to pay off debt instead of moving it around; and
• Keep card accounts open.

These are some basic options available to anyone with one or more credit card accounts. These steps may not be easy, but accomplishing them can go a long way toward improving one's credit score.

2. Open New Credit Card Accounts

If you have no credit at all, it is imperative to start building it. A smart first step is applying for a credit card. For those who already have lines of credit and are looking to boost their score, it may be worthwhile to open a new account.

It is important to remember that it is quite easy to get over your head when it comes to credit cards. Responsible use of a new account, however, can lead to a significant credit score boost.

3. Do Not Spread Small Charges across Different Cards

Making small purchases, usually under $100, across different credit cards can ultimately harm your credit score. It is best to rely on as few cards as possible. Having small amounts of debt across various cards, often referred to as “nuisance charges,” is not only bad for your credit, but it also can quickly build up to create a difficult situation.

If you are looking for a San Antonio, Texas bankruptcy attorney or are curious about how bankruptcy might work for your financial situation, contact the Law Offices of Chance M. McGhee. Call 210-342-3400 to schedule a free initial consultation.