Credit / Debt Management: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Closing Credit Cards
Closing a credit card might seem like a solution for a problem with your creditor or the card itself. But closing the wrong card could hurt your credit score.
Closing a credit card might seem like a solution for a problem with your creditor or the card itself. But closing the wrong card could hurt your credit score.
Stupid Debt Payoffs
The easiest way to recognize a âstupidâ debt repayment method is to think about whether the debt is actually
The easiest way to recognize a âstupidâ debt repayment method is to think about whether the debt is actually
When Not to Use Credit
Just because you have it, doesn't mean it's ok to use it. Here are seven times you shouldn't use your credit card.
Just because you have it, doesn't mean it's ok to use it. Here are seven times you shouldn't use your credit card.
50 Statute of Limitations
Each state has its own statute of limitations on debt - the amount of time you can be sued for a debt.
Each state has its own statute of limitations on debt - the amount of time you can be sued for a debt.
First Credit Card
Getting a credit card for the first time is a big step. Here's how to get your first credit card.
Getting a credit card for the first time is a big step. Here's how to get your first credit card.
Statute of Limitations
The statute of limitations on a debt keeps debt collectors from winning a lawsuit. The limit varies by state and depends on the account's last date of activity.
The statute of limitations on a debt keeps debt collectors from winning a lawsuit. The limit varies by state and depends on the account's last date of activity.
Rent With Bad Credit
Renting with bad credit can be easy or hard depending on where you're looking. Find out how to get around the credit check and rent an apartment even with bad credit.
Renting with bad credit can be easy or hard depending on where you're looking. Find out how to get around the credit check and rent an apartment even with bad credit.
Statute of Limitations FAQ
Answers to some of the most important questions about the statute of limitations on debt and how long certain debts can be collected.
Answers to some of the most important questions about the statute of limitations on debt and how long certain debts can be collected.
Rebuild Bad Credit
After repairing bad credit, you need to rebuild it, prove to your creditors that you can pay your bills on time. Learn what it takes to rebuild bad credit and improve your credit score.
After repairing bad credit, you need to rebuild it, prove to your creditors that you can pay your bills on time. Learn what it takes to rebuild bad credit and improve your credit score.
10 Things To Improve Credit
Bad credit isn't permanent. There are things you can do right now to improve your credit score. Get tips to raise your credit score from bad to good.
Bad credit isn't permanent. There are things you can do right now to improve your credit score. Get tips to raise your credit score from bad to good.
SOL & Credit Reporting
Some debts may still appear on your credit report even after the statute of limitations has expired. You may be able to remove them if the credit reporting time limit has also passed.
Some debts may still appear on your credit report even after the statute of limitations has expired. You may be able to remove them if the credit reporting time limit has also passed.
Credit Repair
Credit repair isn't a secret skill or process only available to credit repair companies. You have the power and the right to repair your own credit.
Credit repair isn't a secret skill or process only available to credit repair companies. You have the power and the right to repair your own credit.
Get a Credit Card With Bad Credit
If you're suffering with bad credit, you're not alone. Many people with bad credit have a hard time finding a credit card. Here's how you can get a credit card even if you have bad credit.
If you're suffering with bad credit, you're not alone. Many people with bad credit have a hard time finding a credit card. Here's how you can get a credit card even if you have bad credit.
Remove Collection
Technically, debt collections are supposed to stay on your credit report for seven years. But, there are a few ways to remove debt collections before that time comes.
Technically, debt collections are supposed to stay on your credit report for seven years. But, there are a few ways to remove debt collections before that time comes.
Hurt Credit Score
Any of these things will hurt your credit score.
Any of these things will hurt your credit score.
Charge-Off Explained
: What Is A Charge-Off : Many people mistakenly think when a debt has been charged-off that it's been
: What Is A Charge-Off : Many people mistakenly think when a debt has been charged-off that it's been
Pay for Delete Letter
Use this sample pay for delete letter to negotiate removal of negative collection accounts and charge-offs from your credit report. Customize the letter to fit your situation.
Use this sample pay for delete letter to negotiate removal of negative collection accounts and charge-offs from your credit report. Customize the letter to fit your situation.
Sample SOL Letter
Debt collectors might continue to contact you after the statute of limitations has passed on a debt. However, you can stop them from calling by sending a letter. Be careful not to acknowledge ownership of the debt as that can restart the clock on the statute of limitations.
Debt collectors might continue to contact you after the statute of limitations has passed on a debt. However, you can stop them from calling by sending a letter. Be careful not to acknowledge ownership of the debt as that can restart the clock on the statute of limitations.
Repair Charge-Off
A credit card charge-offs is one of the worst things that can happen to your credit. When you're working on credit repair, taking care of charged-off accounts helps improve your credit score.
A credit card charge-offs is one of the worst things that can happen to your credit. When you're working on credit repair, taking care of charged-off accounts helps improve your credit score.
Credit Karma.com
I've been using Credit Karma for years to get my free credit score. I've never given my credit card number and never paid for the free credit score. Learn how you can get yours.
I've been using Credit Karma for years to get my free credit score. I've never given my credit card number and never paid for the free credit score. Learn how you can get yours.
Debt Settlement
Even though debt settlement may promise to reduce your debt, they can't promise to keep your credit in tact at the same time. Find out how debt settlement works and why it may not be the best solution.
Even though debt settlement may promise to reduce your debt, they can't promise to keep your credit in tact at the same time. Find out how debt settlement works and why it may not be the best solution.
Stop Paying Credit Card Result
Several things will happen if you stop paying your credit card and, in the long run, none of them will be good. Before you stop paying your credit card, look at some alternatives.
Several things will happen if you stop paying your credit card and, in the long run, none of them will be good. Before you stop paying your credit card, look at some alternatives.
sampledispute
A sample credit report dispute letter you can use to dispute information from your credit report with the credit bureaus.
A sample credit report dispute letter you can use to dispute information from your credit report with the credit bureaus.
Pay Off Collection
Before you pay off a collection account, first negotiate with the debt collector to have your credit report updated to something that works in your favor. As you work with debt collectors to negotiate a payment, keep in mind what you and the collector want from the deal.
Before you pay off a collection account, first negotiate with the debt collector to have your credit report updated to something that works in your favor. As you work with debt collectors to negotiate a payment, keep in mind what you and the collector want from the deal.
Read Credit Report
Credit reports aren't very easy to understand. Use this sample credit report to help you learn how to read a credit report.
Credit reports aren't very easy to understand. Use this sample credit report to help you learn how to read a credit report.
Get a Credit Card With No Credit
Getting a credit card with no credit history is tough, but not impossible. Find out how to get approved for a credit card when you have no credit.
Getting a credit card with no credit history is tough, but not impossible. Find out how to get approved for a credit card when you have no credit.
Stop Collection Calls
Debt collection calls are usually unwanted and can border harrassment. The FDCPA, a federal law, give you rights that help you stop debt collector calls.
Debt collection calls are usually unwanted and can border harrassment. The FDCPA, a federal law, give you rights that help you stop debt collector calls.
Make a Budget
Making a budget is the first step to paying off your debt. You won't be able to get out of debt and stay out if you're not good at managing your money.
Making a budget is the first step to paying off your debt. You won't be able to get out of debt and stay out if you're not good at managing your money.
Credit Report Dispute
You can remove credit report errors by submitting a a credit report dispute to the credit bureaus. Find out how to submit a credit report dispute to clean up your credit report.
You can remove credit report errors by submitting a a credit report dispute to the credit bureaus. Find out how to submit a credit report dispute to clean up your credit report.
Student Loan Forgiveness
Student loans are a heavy burden for many college graduates. There are many student loan forgiveness programs that might eliminate some or all of your student loan debt.
Student loans are a heavy burden for many college graduates. There are many student loan forgiveness programs that might eliminate some or all of your student loan debt.
Do's And Don'ts
Guidelines for using credit cards the right way. Learn the way to use - and not to use - your credit card.
Guidelines for using credit cards the right way. Learn the way to use - and not to use - your credit card.
Denied Credit Card Application
There are many possible reasons a credit card application could be denied. Your credit card application could be denied because of your credit or because of something that's not even on your credit report. Here are some possible explanations for your credit card application being denied.
There are many possible reasons a credit card application could be denied. Your credit card application could be denied because of your credit or because of something that's not even on your credit report. Here are some possible explanations for your credit card application being denied.
SOL for Debt
The statute of limitations for a specific debt depends on the state where the debt was created and the type of debt.
The statute of limitations for a specific debt depends on the state where the debt was created and the type of debt.
How To Get Credit
How to apply for credit for the first time. The steps you should take and what to watch out for.
How to apply for credit for the first time. The steps you should take and what to watch out for.
FDCPA Violations
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, FDCPA, dictates how debt collectors can act when collecting a debt from you. Find out what debt collectors can and cannot do.
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, FDCPA, dictates how debt collectors can act when collecting a debt from you. Find out what debt collectors can and cannot do.
Remove Negative Credit Report Entries
Being able to rid your credit report of negative credit report information can help improve your credit score by dozens of points or more. Here are some techniques for removing negative information from your credit report.
Being able to rid your credit report of negative credit report information can help improve your credit score by dozens of points or more. Here are some techniques for removing negative information from your credit report.
Credit Repair Foreclosure
A foreclosure will remain on your credit report for seven years. It will have the most significant impact on your credit in the first few years. There are things you can do to soften the blow of a foreclosure and even to rebuild your credit after a foreclosure.
A foreclosure will remain on your credit report for seven years. It will have the most significant impact on your credit in the first few years. There are things you can do to soften the blow of a foreclosure and even to rebuild your credit after a foreclosure.
Lower Debt Payments
If your debt looks like a mountain and your budget feels like a shovel,at least one of these, possibly two or three, will work in your favor and help you get those debt payments to a manageable level.
If your debt looks like a mountain and your budget feels like a shovel,at least one of these, possibly two or three, will work in your favor and help you get those debt payments to a manageable level.
Sample Cease and Desist
To stop debt collection calls, you must send a cease and desist letter. Use this cease and desist letter template to stop debt collection calls.
To stop debt collection calls, you must send a cease and desist letter. Use this cease and desist letter template to stop debt collection calls.
Check Your Report
How many times a year should you be checking your credit report? At least once, possibly more.
How many times a year should you be checking your credit report? At least once, possibly more.
Build Good Credit
Your credit history affects everything from buying a home to financing your education and even getting a job. Learn how to build a good credit history starting with your first credit card.
Your credit history affects everything from buying a home to financing your education and even getting a job. Learn how to build a good credit history starting with your first credit card.
Types of Loans
There are many different types of loans. When you're shopping for a loan, it's important to know the types of loans that are out there.
There are many different types of loans. When you're shopping for a loan, it's important to know the types of loans that are out there.
Open-Ended Account Definition
an open-ended account is an account that has a varying, revolving balance
an open-ended account is an account that has a varying, revolving balance
Debt To Income Ratio
Your debt to income ratio indicates your level of debt. Learn how to calculate and analyze your debt to income ratio.
Your debt to income ratio indicates your level of debt. Learn how to calculate and analyze your debt to income ratio.
Pay Old Collection
When a debt collector contacts you to pay an old collection, you might wonder if it's worth paying, especially if the debt is years or decades old.
When a debt collector contacts you to pay an old collection, you might wonder if it's worth paying, especially if the debt is years or decades old.
Deal With Collectors
Debt collectors don't always follow the rules. Here's some information that will help you deal, or not deal, with collection agencies.
Debt collectors don't always follow the rules. Here's some information that will help you deal, or not deal, with collection agencies.
Written Contract Definition
a written contract is an agreement made on a printed document that has been signed by both the lender and the borrower
a written contract is an agreement made on a printed document that has been signed by both the lender and the borrower
Goodwill Letter
You can use a goodwill letter in credit repair to request a creditor make a courtesy update to your credit report. Learn how to create your own goodwill letter.
You can use a goodwill letter in credit repair to request a creditor make a courtesy update to your credit report. Learn how to create your own goodwill letter.
Closed Cards and Credit Score
Before you call your credit card company, learn what will happen to your credit score if you close the card.
Before you call your credit card company, learn what will happen to your credit score if you close the card.
Credit Cards to Rebuild Bad Credit
Finding the right credit cards for rebuilding bad credit is key to improving your credit score.
Finding the right credit cards for rebuilding bad credit is key to improving your credit score.
Do You Owe?
Even though the statute of limitations has expired on a debt, you are still legally responsible for paying the debt. However, the creditor or collector no longer has the liberty of using the court to force you to pay.
Even though the statute of limitations has expired on a debt, you are still legally responsible for paying the debt. However, the creditor or collector no longer has the liberty of using the court to force you to pay.
Credit Card Tricks
Credit card companies look for sneaky ways to charge you more money, while you’re stuck wondering what happened. Here are some of their dirtiest tricks.
Credit card companies look for sneaky ways to charge you more money, while you’re stuck wondering what happened. Here are some of their dirtiest tricks.
Things to Boost Credit Score
If you don't like your current credit standing, check out this list of things that can boost your credit score.
If you don't like your current credit standing, check out this list of things that can boost your credit score.
Things That Don't Hurt Credit
Making late credit card and loan payments will definitely hurt your credit score, but there are some late payments that will never see your credit report. Learn what things won't hurt your credit score.
Making late credit card and loan payments will definitely hurt your credit score, but there are some late payments that will never see your credit report. Learn what things won't hurt your credit score.
Debt Validation
Debt validation is your right to have the debt collectors prove you owe what they say you owe. If the collector can't validate the debt, they can't collect from you.
Debt validation is your right to have the debt collectors prove you owe what they say you owe. If the collector can't validate the debt, they can't collect from you.
LifeLock Fight Identity Theft
LifeLock's identity theft protection service is an alternative to credit monitoring and costs $10 a month or $110 a year. Is it worth the money?
LifeLock's identity theft protection service is an alternative to credit monitoring and costs $10 a month or $110 a year. Is it worth the money?
Marriage and Credit
Whether you're engaged, already married, or just thinking about marriage, you should know how marriage affects your credit and the credit of your partner.
Whether you're engaged, already married, or just thinking about marriage, you should know how marriage affects your credit and the credit of your partner.
Best Secured Credit Cards
The best secured credit cards has low fees and interest rates. The ones that made our best list come from Navy Federal Credit Union, Orchard Bank and Wells Fargo.
The best secured credit cards has low fees and interest rates. The ones that made our best list come from Navy Federal Credit Union, Orchard Bank and Wells Fargo.
Restart SOL
Be careful about taking certain actions on a dormant account. You could restart the statute of limitations and give creditors more time to sue you.
Be careful about taking certain actions on a dormant account. You could restart the statute of limitations and give creditors more time to sue you.
Credit Card Payoff Calculators
There are hundreds of credit card pay off calculators on the internet. Here is a list of the best.
There are hundreds of credit card pay off calculators on the internet. Here is a list of the best.
Respond to Denied Application
Having a credit card application denied is discouraging, to say the least. If your credit card application is denied, here are some things you can do to improve your chances at getting a new credit card.
Having a credit card application denied is discouraging, to say the least. If your credit card application is denied, here are some things you can do to improve your chances at getting a new credit card.
Late Payments
Missing credit card payments might not seem like a big deal to you, but your creditors don't feel the
Missing credit card payments might not seem like a big deal to you, but your creditors don't feel the
Credit One Bank Visa Platinum Card
The Credit One Bank Visa Platinum Card charges high fees and high interest rates. It is aimed at people with poor credit or limited credit history.
The Credit One Bank Visa Platinum Card charges high fees and high interest rates. It is aimed at people with poor credit or limited credit history.
Debt Plan
Successful debt reduction starts with a plan. Learn how to put together a plan to get out of debt, decide which debts to focus on, and how to create a budget to get out of debt.
Successful debt reduction starts with a plan. Learn how to put together a plan to get out of debt, decide which debts to focus on, and how to create a budget to get out of debt.
Debt Collector Lawsuit
A debt collector can indeed sue you for an unpaid debt, even if the statute of limitations or credit reporting time limit has passed.
A debt collector can indeed sue you for an unpaid debt, even if the statute of limitations or credit reporting time limit has passed.
Kardashian Prepaid MasterCard
The Kardashian Prepaid MasterCard charges high monthly fees and lots of other fees.
The Kardashian Prepaid MasterCard charges high monthly fees and lots of other fees.
What is a Collection?
How worried do you have to be about a call or letter from a debt collector or a debt collection on your credit report?
How worried do you have to be about a call or letter from a debt collector or a debt collection on your credit report?
Credit Reporting Time Limit
How long does negative information stay on my credit report? The credit reporting time limit keeps negative information on your credit report for a minimum of seven years, with some exceptions.
How long does negative information stay on my credit report? The credit reporting time limit keeps negative information on your credit report for a minimum of seven years, with some exceptions.
New Credit Card Credit Score
Before you open a new credit card account, think about what it’s going to do to your credit score.
Before you open a new credit card account, think about what it’s going to do to your credit score.
Debt Collector Ignore Cease and Desist
A cease and desist letter is one of the best ways to stop debt collector calls. Here's what to do when the collector ignores yours.
A cease and desist letter is one of the best ways to stop debt collector calls. Here's what to do when the collector ignores yours.
Remove Old Debts
Follow these steps to remove old, outdated information from your credit report after the 7- or 10-year credit reporting time limit has expired.
Follow these steps to remove old, outdated information from your credit report after the 7- or 10-year credit reporting time limit has expired.
Overdraft and Credit Scor
Payment history is 35% of your credit score, but does that include bank overdrafts? Learn whether overdrafting your bank account will hurt your credit score.
Payment history is 35% of your credit score, but does that include bank overdrafts? Learn whether overdrafting your bank account will hurt your credit score.
Where to Send Report Disputes
You should send your credit report disputes directly to the credit bureau who provided the report that contains the error. Each credit bureau has an address where you can send your disputes.
You should send your credit report disputes directly to the credit bureau who provided the report that contains the error. Each credit bureau has an address where you can send your disputes.
Credit Beginnings
Here are some tips to get you started with your first credit card.
Here are some tips to get you started with your first credit card.
Credit Score and Interest Rate
Your interest rate isn't randomly-generated. In fact, you can indirectly control your interest rate by maintaining your credit score.
Your interest rate isn't randomly-generated. In fact, you can indirectly control your interest rate by maintaining your credit score.
Credit Score
Understanding your credit score calculation can help you use credit wisely. Find out what goes into calculating your credit score.
Understanding your credit score calculation can help you use credit wisely. Find out what goes into calculating your credit score.
Living Paycheck to Paycheck
Living paycheck to paycheck is an uneasy feeling since you're often worried about how you're going to make ends meet. Learn how you can stop living paycheck to paycheck.
Living paycheck to paycheck is an uneasy feeling since you're often worried about how you're going to make ends meet. Learn how you can stop living paycheck to paycheck.
Too Much Debt?
Taking the time to determine whether or not you have too much debt can provide confirmation that you are doing things right or the realization that some financial changes are needed.
Taking the time to determine whether or not you have too much debt can provide confirmation that you are doing things right or the realization that some financial changes are needed.
SOL Clock Start
The crucial factor in figuring out whether the statute of limitations has expired is to determine when the clock started ticking.
The crucial factor in figuring out whether the statute of limitations has expired is to determine when the clock started ticking.
Reporting Lost Credit Card
Missing credit cards should be reported as quickly as possible to reduce your liability. Find out what steps you should take when your credidt card has been lost or stolen.
Missing credit cards should be reported as quickly as possible to reduce your liability. Find out what steps you should take when your credidt card has been lost or stolen.
How Many Credit Cards
You may sift through your stack of credit cards and wonder if you have too many. Or, if you're considering
You may sift through your stack of credit cards and wonder if you have too many. Or, if you're considering
Rebuild With Secure Credit
If you have bad credit and find it hard to get approved for a credit card, learn how a secured credit card can help you re-establish your credit history.
If you have bad credit and find it hard to get approved for a credit card, learn how a secured credit card can help you re-establish your credit history.
Debt to Income Ratio Calculator - Calculate Your Debt to Income Ratio
Use this free debt-to-income ratio calculator to tell whether you have too much debt.
Use this free debt-to-income ratio calculator to tell whether you have too much debt.
Removed Cosigned Name
Find out how to remove your name from a cosigned loan, even if your name was forged on the loan.
Find out how to remove your name from a cosigned loan, even if your name was forged on the loan.
Credit Card Payback
Stumped on how to pay back your credit card debt? Here are two methods that will work.
Stumped on how to pay back your credit card debt? Here are two methods that will work.
Florida SOL
The statute of limitations on debt in Florida limits the amount of time a consumer can be sued for a debt.
The statute of limitations on debt in Florida limits the amount of time a consumer can be sued for a debt.
Promissory Note Definition
A promissory note is a written contract that includes a specific promise to pay.
A promissory note is a written contract that includes a specific promise to pay.
Best Travel Rewards Credit Cards
Looking for a great travel rewards credit card? Here's a list of the best travel rewards credit cards. These have the best reward payouts and signup bonuses, some with no annual fee, and others with great promotional introductory rates.
Looking for a great travel rewards credit card? Here's a list of the best travel rewards credit cards. These have the best reward payouts and signup bonuses, some with no annual fee, and others with great promotional introductory rates.
Not Paying a Collection
Collectors hassling you for payment? There are consequences to ignoring their attempts to collect. Learn what happens if you don't pay a collection.
Collectors hassling you for payment? There are consequences to ignoring their attempts to collect. Learn what happens if you don't pay a collection.
Credit Card Mistakes
If you have a credit card in your wallet, here are 10 credit card mistakes you should avoid.
If you have a credit card in your wallet, here are 10 credit card mistakes you should avoid.
Which Collection Agency Owed
There are a few ways you can find out which collection agency you owe. If you can't find them, they'll eventually find you.
There are a few ways you can find out which collection agency you owe. If you can't find them, they'll eventually find you.
Orchard Bank Classic MasterCard
The Orchard Bank Classic MasterCard is for people with poor credit who want an unsecured credit card. It charges high fees and high APRs.
The Orchard Bank Classic MasterCard is for people with poor credit who want an unsecured credit card. It charges high fees and high APRs.
Reasons Cancel Credit Card
Learn five reasons that creditors commonly cancel credit cards.
Learn five reasons that creditors commonly cancel credit cards.
Steps to Get Out of Debt
If you want to pay off your debt but you don't know where to get started, follow these seven steps to get out of debt.
If you want to pay off your debt but you don't know where to get started, follow these seven steps to get out of debt.
Credit Report SOL
An account may still appear on your credit report even though the statute of limitations has expired for that debt.
An account may still appear on your credit report even though the statute of limitations has expired for that debt.
Best Student Credit Cards for Students
The best student credit cards come from Wells Fargo, Capital One, Discover, U.S. Bank, Bank of America and Citigroup. These best student credit cards carry no annual fees, low APRs, and some have good rewards programs.
The best student credit cards come from Wells Fargo, Capital One, Discover, U.S. Bank, Bank of America and Citigroup. These best student credit cards carry no annual fees, low APRs, and some have good rewards programs.
Average Daily Balance
The average daily balance method is one of the ways your creditor might calculate your finance charge. Find out how the calculation works.
The average daily balance method is one of the ways your creditor might calculate your finance charge. Find out how the calculation works.
When Can Collectors Call
The FDCPA is a Federal law that dictates when debt collectors can legally call you.
The FDCPA is a Federal law that dictates when debt collectors can legally call you.
Capital One Classic Platinum Credit Card
The Capital One Classic Platinum Credit Card is for people with weak credit. It charges relatively low interest rates but a high annual fee.
The Capital One Classic Platinum Credit Card is for people with weak credit. It charges relatively low interest rates but a high annual fee.
Credit Card Process
Get a better understanding of how the credit card billing process works from making purchases to making payments.
Get a better understanding of how the credit card billing process works from making purchases to making payments.
Sample Goodwill Letter
Customize this sample goodwill letter to ask creditors to remove negative information to from your credit report.
Customize this sample goodwill letter to ask creditors to remove negative information to from your credit report.
Maintain Good Credit Score
Once you make your way to a good credit score, keep it is important. Here are seven ways to maintain a good credit score.
Once you make your way to a good credit score, keep it is important. Here are seven ways to maintain a good credit score.
Time-Barred Debts
Time-barred debts are those that are no longer collectible through the court because the statute of limitations on these debts has passed. Creditors and debt collectors can still try to collect time-barred debts.
Time-barred debts are those that are no longer collectible through the court because the statute of limitations on these debts has passed. Creditors and debt collectors can still try to collect time-barred debts.
Avoid Cash Advance
Your credit card comes with the ability to take out a cash advance, but this type of transaction might be the worst of all. Learn why you should avoid a credit card cash advance.
Your credit card comes with the ability to take out a cash advance, but this type of transaction might be the worst of all. Learn why you should avoid a credit card cash advance.
Cancel FreeCreditReport.com
If you want to avoid credit card charges from FreeCreditReport.com, you have to cancel your account before the trial period ends.
If you want to avoid credit card charges from FreeCreditReport.com, you have to cancel your account before the trial period ends.
Credit Card Types
Don't be confused by all the different credit cards. Get familiar with the different types of credit cards to choose the right one for you.
Don't be confused by all the different credit cards. Get familiar with the different types of credit cards to choose the right one for you.
Bankruptcy Types
The two major types of personal bankruptcy for consumers are Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. Chapter 7 allows you to discharge debt after some assets have been liquidated. Chapter 13 allows you to discharge debt after completing a payment plan.
The two major types of personal bankruptcy for consumers are Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. Chapter 7 allows you to discharge debt after some assets have been liquidated. Chapter 13 allows you to discharge debt after completing a payment plan.
Wells Fargo Secured Card
The Wells Fargo Secured Card is for people who don’t have a credit history, have been turned down for credit card or are rebuilding their credit history.
The Wells Fargo Secured Card is for people who don’t have a credit history, have been turned down for credit card or are rebuilding their credit history.
Good Credit Matters
Good credit goes far beyond getting approved for a credit card or loan. Find out why good credit is so important and how bad credit costs.
Good credit goes far beyond getting approved for a credit card or loan. Find out why good credit is so important and how bad credit costs.
No Maxed-Out Credit Card
Maxing out your credit card happens when your credit balance is very near, at, or above your credit limit. Here's why a maxed-out credit card is such a bad thing.
Maxing out your credit card happens when your credit balance is very near, at, or above your credit limit. Here's why a maxed-out credit card is such a bad thing.
Orchard Bank Secured MasterCa
The Orchard Bank Secured Credit Card by MasterCard is a good option for consumers with a bad credit history who need to re-establish their credit.
The Orchard Bank Secured Credit Card by MasterCard is a good option for consumers with a bad credit history who need to re-establish their credit.
Annual Fee
Not every credit card issuer charges an annual fee and some let you get the fee waived. Don't automatically walk away from a credit card with an annual fee - the cost may be worth it.
Not every credit card issuer charges an annual fee and some let you get the fee waived. Don't automatically walk away from a credit card with an annual fee - the cost may be worth it.
Sample Credit Letters
Here are a variety of sample credit letters you can tailor and send to credit card companies, debt collectors, and other credit bureaus.
Here are a variety of sample credit letters you can tailor and send to credit card companies, debt collectors, and other credit bureaus.
Balance up, Score Down
Your credit card balance has a big impact on your credit score. Learn what happens when you have a big balance and find out the ideal credit card balance for a good credit score.
Your credit card balance has a big impact on your credit score. Learn what happens when you have a big balance and find out the ideal credit card balance for a good credit score.
Oral Agreement
an oral contract is an agreement that was made verbally
an oral contract is an agreement that was made verbally
Credit Score Drop
Trying to figure out why your credit score dropped? These are some possible explanations for a drop in your credit score.
Trying to figure out why your credit score dropped? These are some possible explanations for a drop in your credit score.
Credit Utilization
Credit utilization is the ratio of your credit card debt to credit limits. It has the second biggest factor influencing your FICO score.
Credit utilization is the ratio of your credit card debt to credit limits. It has the second biggest factor influencing your FICO score.
Debts With No Expiration
Certain types of debt do not fall under the statute of limitations rules. A court can force you to pay these debts at anytime no matter how long the debt has been inactive.
Certain types of debt do not fall under the statute of limitations rules. A court can force you to pay these debts at anytime no matter how long the debt has been inactive.
Money for Debt
Funding your debt plan might be hard if you depend on your current income. Here are some ways you can come up with extra money to get out of debt.
Funding your debt plan might be hard if you depend on your current income. Here are some ways you can come up with extra money to get out of debt.
Can't Make Payment
There may come a month when you don't have enough money to make your credit card minimum payment. Find out what you can do to maintain your credit score, interest rate, and relationship with your creditor.
There may come a month when you don't have enough money to make your credit card minimum payment. Find out what you can do to maintain your credit score, interest rate, and relationship with your creditor.
Avoid Paying Interest
There are generally two ways to avoid paying interest on your credit card. You can avoid paying interest if you pay the balance in full at the end of the month or if you have a zero percent interest rate promotion.
There are generally two ways to avoid paying interest on your credit card. You can avoid paying interest if you pay the balance in full at the end of the month or if you have a zero percent interest rate promotion.
Sample Validation Letter
Debt validation requests should be made in writing. Here is a sample debt validation letter you can send to collectors.
Debt validation requests should be made in writing. Here is a sample debt validation letter you can send to collectors.
Truly Free Credit Score
Here are a few ways to get a free credit score no credit card, no subscription, no strings whatsoever.
Here are a few ways to get a free credit score no credit card, no subscription, no strings whatsoever.
Bad Credit Side Effects
Since so many businesses now judge you based on your credit score, having bad credit can make life extremely difficult from getting a job to getting a place to live. Here are some of the most common side-effects of bad credit.
Since so many businesses now judge you based on your credit score, having bad credit can make life extremely difficult from getting a job to getting a place to live. Here are some of the most common side-effects of bad credit.
Inquiries & Credit Score
Not all credit report inquiries have an effect on your credit score. Learn the different inquiries and what they mean for your credit.
Not all credit report inquiries have an effect on your credit score. Learn the different inquiries and what they mean for your credit.
SOL Lawsuit
The statute of limitations limits the amount of time you can be sued for a debt, but it's up to you to prove the SOL has actually expired.
The statute of limitations limits the amount of time you can be sued for a debt, but it's up to you to prove the SOL has actually expired.
Wrong Number Collection Calls
Follow these step to put an end to wrong number calls from debt collectors.
Follow these step to put an end to wrong number calls from debt collectors.
Why Pay More Than Minimum
The minimum payment is a convenience credit card issuers give, but it can come at a high cost. Paying more than the minimum is always better.
The minimum payment is a convenience credit card issuers give, but it can come at a high cost. Paying more than the minimum is always better.
Prepare Credit for Mortgage
The credit crisis has made it more difficult to get approved for a mortgage loan. So it’s more important than ever to prepare your credit for a mortgage application. Cleaning up your credit report and increasing your credit score will improve your chances of getting approved. If your credit’s already good, maintaining it will be key in locking in a low interest rate.
The credit crisis has made it more difficult to get approved for a mortgage loan. So it’s more important than ever to prepare your credit for a mortgage application. Cleaning up your credit report and increasing your credit score will improve your chances of getting approved. If your credit’s already good, maintaining it will be key in locking in a low interest rate.
Secured Credit Card
Secured credit cards are good for establishing or re-establishing credit. Before you apply for a secured card, make sure to get the important facts about the card.
Secured credit cards are good for establishing or re-establishing credit. Before you apply for a secured card, make sure to get the important facts about the card.
Fix Bad Credit Report
Your credit report dictates the steps you take to repair your credit. Here are some of the most common credit blemishes and information on fixing them.
Your credit report dictates the steps you take to repair your credit. Here are some of the most common credit blemishes and information on fixing them.
Prepaid Credit Card
Prepaid credit cards are simply Visa, MasterCard, or American Express branded gift cards that are loaded with money and used as credit cards where credit cards are accepted.
Prepaid credit cards are simply Visa, MasterCard, or American Express branded gift cards that are loaded with money and used as credit cards where credit cards are accepted.
How To Use Credit
Whether you're building or rebuilding your credit, knowing the right way to make charges and payments will help raise your credit score.
Whether you're building or rebuilding your credit, knowing the right way to make charges and payments will help raise your credit score.
Bank of America Cash Rewards Visa Card
The Bank of America Cash Rewards Visa Card pays up to 3% cash back on purchases. Find out how you can earn a $100 bonus.
The Bank of America Cash Rewards Visa Card pays up to 3% cash back on purchases. Find out how you can earn a $100 bonus.
Wage Garnishment Limit
Federal law limits the amount your wages can be garnished. Make sure your wage garnishment doesn't exceed the maximum allowed limit.
Federal law limits the amount your wages can be garnished. Make sure your wage garnishment doesn't exceed the maximum allowed limit.
Bankruptcy Affect Credit Score
Bankruptcy is notorious for being one of the worst things for your credit, but just how far will your credit score drop if you file bankruptcy?
Bankruptcy is notorious for being one of the worst things for your credit, but just how far will your credit score drop if you file bankruptcy?
Califoria SOL
The California statute of limitations on debt limits the amount of time you can be sued for an overdue debt
The California statute of limitations on debt limits the amount of time you can be sued for an overdue debt
Qualify for a Credit Card
Credit card issuers have criteria they use to decide which applicants qualify for a credit card.
Credit card issuers have criteria they use to decide which applicants qualify for a credit card.
Billing Cycle
The period of time between your credit card billing statements is called a billing cycle. Billing cycles may not necessarily line up with calendar months.
The period of time between your credit card billing statements is called a billing cycle. Billing cycles may not necessarily line up with calendar months.
Collection After SOL
The statute of limitations can help if you have to go to court over a debt, but it doesn't impact other collection efforts.
The statute of limitations can help if you have to go to court over a debt, but it doesn't impact other collection efforts.
Zombie Debt
If you've ever watched Night of the Living Dead or 28 Days Later , then you know about zombies. They're
If you've ever watched Night of the Living Dead or 28 Days Later , then you know about zombies. They're
United Mileage Plus Visa Select Card
The United Mileage Plus Visa Select Card pays triple miles for flights charged to the card. The $95 annual fee is worth it if you fly frequently on United.
The United Mileage Plus Visa Select Card pays triple miles for flights charged to the card. The $95 annual fee is worth it if you fly frequently on United.
Rebuild After Collection or Charge-Off
Work to rebuild your credit after a serious delinquency like a collection or charge-off.
Work to rebuild your credit after a serious delinquency like a collection or charge-off.
Texas SOL
The statute of limitations on debt in Texas limits the amount of time you can be sued for a debt.
The statute of limitations on debt in Texas limits the amount of time you can be sued for a debt.
Correctly Close Credit Card
Learn to close a credit card the right way, by contacting your credit card issuer over the phone and in writing. Follow the right steps to be sure your credit card account is closed completely.
Learn to close a credit card the right way, by contacting your credit card issuer over the phone and in writing. Follow the right steps to be sure your credit card account is closed completely.
Debt Collector Contact With Employer
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act is specific about whether debt collectors can contact your employers and what they're allowed to say.
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act is specific about whether debt collectors can contact your employers and what they're allowed to say.
Ways to Get Out of Debt
It’s amazing that it’s so easy (and often fun) to get into debt, but painfully difficult to get back out. Here are some strategies to get out of debt.
It’s amazing that it’s so easy (and often fun) to get into debt, but painfully difficult to get back out. Here are some strategies to get out of debt.
Avoid Credit Card Fraud
Credit card fraud can a be time consuming to get over. You can avoid credit card fraud by following steps to keep your credit card information safe.
Credit card fraud can a be time consuming to get over. You can avoid credit card fraud by following steps to keep your credit card information safe.
Worst CR Entries
Certain things you never want to appear on your credit report because they damage your chances of getting applications approved. Find out six of the worst credit report entries.
Certain things you never want to appear on your credit report because they damage your chances of getting applications approved. Find out six of the worst credit report entries.
Capital One Standard Platinum Credit Card
The Capital One Standard Platinum Credit Card is for people with poor credit. It carries a low annual fee that is waived the first year but has high interest rates.
The Capital One Standard Platinum Credit Card is for people with poor credit. It carries a low annual fee that is waived the first year but has high interest rates.