These are just a few of the best credit tips and facts to help you improve your credit report and score and give you some ideas for fixing or repairing your credit. When buying a car get pre-approved first at your bank or credit union for example, because car dealers will contact several companies in an effort to get you the cheapest rate and this will affect your FICO score because you'll have several hits at one time on your credit report.



It's often recommended to drastically reduce your credit card use leave your credit card at home. However many people find it hard to do this if they need to carry it in case they need to call for a tow truck or other emergency. Weigh the risks.

If you can't make your payments on time, contact your creditors immediately. Always be proactive when it comes to any debt you have. Develop a simple plan to repay your debt, and do your best to follow that plan even if it's only to pay a small amount each month.

If you contact your creditors write down the specific names and phone numbers of your contacts at the companies. Follow up any phone conversations with creditors with letters confirming any agreements you've made.

Keep in constant contact with your creditors until you resolve your credit problems. Bankruptcy should not be the first solution to your financial problems. It doesn't wipe your credit slate clean or give you a fresh start because it stays on your credit report for up to ten years.

The ability to buy a car, and/or get a home loan absolutely depends on your credit history and score. Some employers will use your credit score in their evaluation of you as a future employee.

What is FICO? FICO is a three-digit number that determines the interest rate you'll pay on your credit cards, car loans and home mortgages and determine whether you'll be able to get a cell phone or have your rental application for a house or apartment accepted or declined.

What does FICO stand for? It's an acronym for Fair Isaac Corporation. Your FICO score is the biggest factor in determining your credit rating with lenders.

The average amount of time it takes to "clean up" any serious negative credit history is seven years. A higher FICO score puts you right in line for a lower interest rate on a loan or credit card. Any time you apply for a loan of any kind your FICO score will take a hit.

High school students are thought to be one of the easiest targets by credit card companies because it's known they're uninformed and eager to spend.

Simple but true: the only way to avoid credit card debt is to never use your credit card. A good guideline - always use your cash, not your credit cards for food, movie tickets and anything less than $10.00.

A good plan to follow when paying on any debt is to pay a little bit before the due date and pay at least a few dollars more than your scheduled payment. Pay your credit card debt online to avoid finding out that your mailed checks haven't arrived on time and pay these three to four days ahead of time at least.

When paying credit card bills online, be aware that sometimes the site can be down for emergencies or maintenance or you may have a problem with your ISP. Pay a few days early if possible.

You're entitled to an annual free credit report online from each of the three major credit report bureaus. Make sure to check for errors. You may find someone else's name and debt on your report, an incorrect birth year, etc.

These are just a few of the best credit tips to help you with your credit report and score and repair. The more you can learn the more you'll be able to raise your FICO score and help your credit history.