Rebuilding Credit FAQ

Understanding how to build good credit involves knowing how credit reporting works. This article breaks down essential parts of the credit rebuilding process by looking at where credit data comes from and how credit bureaus use it. Learn how to get a free copy of your credit report and how long negative items stick around on your credit profile. Read on for tips on fixing mistakes in your credit reports and answers to common questions about how to build credit.

• How do credit bureaus gather credit data?
• What are my rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act?
• How do I get a copy of my credit report and credit score?
• How long does negative information last on my credit report?
• Should I get a credit card to help rebuild my credit?
• Why is credit repair important?
• Hiring a lawyer

How do credit bureaus gather credit data?

Understanding how credit bureaus gather data is crucial when rebuilding credit. Credit bureaus collect and report information about credit card debt, drawing data from creditors and public records. Creditors, which include credit card companies and credit card issuers, supply details on the credit history of borrowers and account holders.

Credit history includes credit limits, credit card balances, credit card payment amounts, and any late payments. Also, credit bureaus can search public records for information. Your credit file includes your details, like date of birth, Social Security number, and employment history.

Credit bureaus then sell these reports to authorized users and financial institutions, including creditors, employers, debt collectors, and mortgage lenders. Three major credit bureaus are Equifax, Experian, and Trans Union. They compile and disseminate these credit reports, which offer an overview of a person's creditworthiness.

What are my rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act?

The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) intends to promote the accuracy and privacy of consumer information that credit bureaus collect. A consumer has the following rights:

• The right to know the information in a credit report used to deny an application for credit
• The right to know what is in a credit file
• The right to dispute inaccurate or incomplete information
• The right to know a credit score
• The right to limit access to a credit file
• The right to limit "prescreened" offers

How do I get a copy of my credit report and credit score?

You can get a free annual copy of your credit report, including your FICO score, compiled by Equifax, Experian, and Trans Union, by ordering it online at www.annualcreditreport.com.

Your credit report shows a history of your credit actions, like accounts, payments, and debts you owe. It gives lenders an overview of how you handle money. But your credit score is usually between 300 and 850, calculated from the information in your credit report. This one number quickly tells how good you are with credit. The higher the score, the better your financial health. The credit report and credit score are important when making financial decisions.

A consumer also has the right to a copy of a free credit report under the following circumstances:

• A denial of credit or another adverse action taken based on information in your credit report within the past 60 days
• You are unemployed and will be seeking work within the next 60 days
• The report contains errors because of fraud (one free copy every 12 months)
• You get public assistance (one free copy every 12 months)
• The report has been revised after completing an investigation requested by the consumer

Many credit bureaus also offer credit monitoring services. Credit monitoring can be particularly helpful for those concerned about credit repair, especially if dealing with bad credit.

How long does negative information last on my credit report?

Negative information about late payments, collection accounts, unpaid child support, and paid tax liens can remain on a credit file for up to seven years. Unpaid tax liens can remain indefinitely (depending on the state). Negative information about government-insured or guaranteed student loans may remain on a credit report for more than seven years.

Under the law, the credit reporting company must remove or correct a report containing inaccuracies or unverifiable information.

You can request an investigation by:

• Initiating a dispute online
• Calling the credit reporting company
• Completing the investigation request form included in the copy of the report
• Sending a letter to the credit bureau responsible for reporting the incomplete or inaccurate information

You can learn more via FindLaw's section: Credit Repair.

Should I get a credit card to help rebuild my credit?

Rebuilding credit through a credit card can help establish a positive credit payment history. A credit card is a good way to reestablish credit if you avoid debt. Only charging what you can pay off when your monthly payments are due is the best way to remain debt-free and rebuild credit.

Sometimes, it is difficult to get a credit card when a negative credit history, like past due or missed payments, remains in your credit file. You can apply with a cosigner or get a secured credit card. Secured cardholders have a credit limit based on the money deposited in a bank account. These credit cards have high interest rates of 25% to 30% but help establish a credit history.

Having just a few open lines of credit is the most effective way to establish responsible credit management. While having more than one credit card will show your ability to manage debt, having too many open credit card accounts may affect your ability to get other credit. You should only open a new credit card account if your financial situation is stable.

Why is credit repair important?

Understanding why credit repair is important is crucial for anyone looking to improve their personal finances. A positive credit history opens doors to favorable interest rates on loans, better credit card offers, and increased chances of approval for rental applications or job opportunities. It can lead to financial stability and flexibility.

On the flip side, poor credit history can result in higher interest rates, limited access to credit, and challenges in securing housing or employment. You can take proactive steps to address negative items on your credit report, rectify errors, and work toward achieving a healthier credit score with credit repair. This, in turn, enhances your financial well-being and provides opportunities for a more secure financial future.

Legal Help When Rebuilding Credit

Understanding your rights and seeking legal help can be crucial if you're working on rebuilding your credit. Credit repair laws protect consumers from unfair practices and errors on their credit reports. You have the right to dispute inaccuracies and have them corrected. Legal professionals specializing in credit issues can guide you through the process, ensuring you get treated fairly. Reach out to a credit repair attorney near you to learn more.