Common Credit Report Myths Debunked
March 10, 2023It’s time to bust those common credit report myths! The truth is far more powerful than the falsehoods that have been circulating. Make the most of your future by taking charge of your finances – this blog provides you with the essential advice needed to make savvy financial decisions! Read on to ensure that these deceptive beliefs don’t get in your way. Let’s break down the misunderstandings around this complex topic so you can confidently move forward with confidence!
Myth #1: Closing a credit card will always improve your credit score.
A lot of people believe that closing a credit card will automatically result in an improved credit score. But the truth is, it can actually be quite damaging! To stay on top of your finances and protect your credit rating, keep those cards open but use them smartly instead.
Closing credit cards results in a lower credit utilization rate, which leaves your credit score vulnerable and can hold you back from getting better credit products. Keeping unused credit cards open ensures that your credit utilization remains low, allowing you to show creditors that you’re a responsible borrower. This also plays into the average credit age calculation of your credit report – having older accounts will be seen positively with any lenders who face credit decisions.
Myth #2: Checking your credit score will hurt your credit score.
Checking your credit score won’t hurt it. Stay up to date on your credit score, and stay one step ahead of any potential fraudulent activity. Don’t be afraid; checking in regularly won’t hurt it! Numerous free monitoring services exist that let you check your score without fear of penalty – giving you control over protecting yourself from financial fraud.
Myth #3: You need to carry a balance on your credit card to improve your credit score.
Credit card scores don’t always have to come with a balance – surprise! Put that in your wallet and carry it away. Credit cards can be great tools for boosting those numbers – so why burden yourself with unnecessary debt?
Don’t let anyone fool you into thinking a balance on your credit card is worth it! It may appear to be helpful, but in reality, the interest payments and hidden fees could stunt your financial success. Make sure you know what really matters – like keeping up with good payment habits and maintaining a lengthy credit history.
Myth #4: Paying off a collection account will immediately remove it from your credit report.
Paying off a collection account will not immediately remove it from your credit report. It will remain on your credit report for seven years from when you first defaulted. But, paying off a collection account can help improve your credit score. It shows lenders that you are taking steps to resolve your debts.
Myth #5: Applying for credit will always hurt your credit score.
Applying for credit can temporarily lower your credit score by generating a hard inquiry on your credit report. However, the impact on your credit score is usually small and temporary. Responsibility is key when it comes to credit – if you take care of what’s owed and pay on time, your score will stay strong! It pays to be prudent with finances.
Myth #6: Your income affects your credit score.
Don’t let worries about your credit score weigh you down, even if your paycheck-to-paycheck lifestyle is leaving little room for financial wiggle. Your financial history, including payments made and how much of your available credit is used, plays a huge role in determining the three digits that determine access to many things. So start planning wisely; no income amount can guarantee what those numbers will be!
Myth #7: Credit counseling will hurt your credit score.
Credit counseling will not hurt your credit score. It offers a chance to take control of your financial situation, rebuild your creditworthiness, and eventually improve your score. When enrolling in such programs, however, it’s important to know that there may be a temporary dip before accomplishment sets in!
Myth #8: Bankruptcy will permanently ruin your credit score.
Bankruptcy will not permanently ruin your credit score. It can be a hard hit to your score, but don’t despair! You’ve got ten years to make up for it, and by improving your credit score, you’ll get back on track. So start now – success awaits! By taking steps such as paying bills on time, using credit responsibly, and keeping balances low, you can start rebuilding your credit after bankruptcy.
Protect your post-bankruptcy credit! Staying on top of your report is essential. Check it often, so you know exactly what creditors see and can take steps to keep building a solid financial future. While bankruptcy is a serious financial decision with long-term consequences, it is not the end of your credit journey. With time and responsible credit behavior, you can recover and rebuild your credit score.
Myth #9: Credit reports are always accurate.
Are you aware of the potential inaccuracies and fraudulent activity that can appear on your credit report? It’s essential to stay vigilant and check it regularly – don’t wait until there are problems! Fortunately, you’re legally entitled to a free annual copy from all three major bureaus. Be sure to take advantage of this privilege today for complete financial security now and into the future!
Conclusion
All in all, you should strive to know the facts about credit myths and make informed decisions regarding your usage. Regularly checking your credit report, limiting your amount of debt owed, and making payments on time are all important principles to adhere to. It may seem difficult to break through situations of financial hardship or incorrect information on a credit report, but working with reputable credit bureaus can help ease the tension and improve your score. That’s why The Ascent Network is here. Our network was created to support people like you. We understand the confusion, frustration, and hardship it takes when dealing with credit-related issues, so allow us to provide support along the way. Trust us to help you improve your credit score because we strive every day for excellence in helping fellow Americans restore their fiscal freedom.
THE ASCENT CREDIT REPAIR ADVANTAGE
Credit problems can affect your entire financial picture. If you’re falling behind on a credit card or mortgage payments, you could be negatively affecting other areas of your financial life.
That’s why we’ve developed a full-scale credit repair solution that addresses the problems you currently have and those you may not have anticipated. At ASCENT, we approach your financial landscape with the foresight to assure financial recovery and long-term financial stability.
Many of our clients have experienced substantial increases in their credit scores, have modified their home loans, have significantly lowered their monthly mortgage payments and changed their overall credit status in ways they never thought possible.