5 Financial Products Worth Considering for Improving Your Credit
Legal Newswire
Jan 02, 2024
Your credit score is an important part of your financial life. It can determine your eligibility for financial tools like personal loans or credit cards, and may also play a crucial role in renting an apartment or even getting a job. But what if you don’t have a good or established credit history? The good news is there are several financial products that can help improve your credit score if used wisely: You must make your payments on time and in full. Here are five products you should consider:
1. Credit Cards
Using a credit card can be a helpful way to build credit. This financial product gives you access to funds up to your credit limit. You can make purchases with your card and pay off what you owe over time. To improve your credit score, aim to pay off your credit card balance in full and on time each month.
If you have low or no credit, you may consider a secured credit card. This card requires you to make a deposit that becomes your credit limit. With timely payments and maintaining a low credit utilization rate, a secured card can boost your credit score, helping you get approved for unsecured credit cards down the line.
2. Personal Loans
Personal loans are an excellent option for those looking to build their credit score. These loans typically have fixed amounts and set payment schedules, making them easier to manage. By consistently paying off the loan on time, you can significantly improve your credit score. Better yet, some lenders have less strict requirements, so you may get approved with low or no credit—just be sure that the lender reports to credit bureaus.
3. Credit-Builder Loans
A credit-builder loan is designed to help people establish a credit history or fix a damaged one. With this type of loan, the lender deposits the loan amount into a certificate of deposit or savings account, and you can’t access it until you pay off what you owe. As you repay the loan, the lender will report your payment activity to the credit bureaus, and your credit score will improve.
4. Rent-Reporting Services
If you’re a renter with no credit history, consider signing up for a rent-reporting service. These services report your rent payments to credit reporting agencies, helping to build your credit. While some services charge a fee, many landlords offer this service for free.
5. Secured Loans
Secured loans are financial tools that require you to put up collateral, such as a house or car, to secure the loan. Since the collateral makes this loan less risky for the lender, you may not need good credit to get approved. A secured loan can be a great way to establish or rebuild credit if you consistently make timely payments. But remember that if you default, the lender can repossess the collateral to recoup the loss.
How to Check Your Credit Score
If you utilize one of these financial products to improve your credit, you may be wondering how you can monitor your progress. You can check your credit score for free with regular updates from each of the major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Checking your credit score periodically can allow you to make adjustments to your financial activities and spending habits, ultimately benefiting your overall financial health.
The Bottom Line
Building credit takes time and discipline, but it’s achievable with the right financial products. Remember to make payments on time and keep your credit utilization low to see significant improvements in your credit score. Over time, you can establish a good credit history and secure a financially stable future.
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