All of us want a good credit score. That gives you the lowest possible interest rate next time you buy a house, a car or take out a credit card.
Thinking of applying for a home or car loan? To know your credit worthiness in advance, you can access your credit score from Equifax, Experian and TransUnion(though it will cost you a few dollars.) You can even get a free score from Credit Karma.
Ideally, you want a credit score as close to 800 as possible.
Money Magazine lists some credit score killers that can lower your score dramatically.
- Late bills: Even just one late credit card payment can knock down your score 20 points or more. Pay something each month, even if it is just the minimum.
- Using more than 1/3 of your available credit: In other words, don't max out your credit cards. Just because you have $3,000 available doesn't mean you should put $2,600 on your card.
- Closing too many accounts too quickly:It's OK to cancel one credit card, but don't close three or four at once.
Biggest credit score killer
But from the "doesn't that stink" file, perhaps the biggest score killer:
- Don't let anything go to collections: Even a disputed doctors bill that you know you are in the right about. It can take two to four years to bring your credit score back to its pre-collection level.
For a free estimate of your credit score, check Credit Karma.com.
Your true FICO score will cost about $10: You can access it atMyFico.com.
Your credit card company may also offer you a free score approximation.
My advice? If you are planning a major purchase soon -- like a home or car -- check your credit score first, even if it costs a few bucks.
It's worth knowing so you don't waste your money.
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