The holidays are a time of giving, and a time for reflection. If you have credit issues credit repair might be the perfect gift to give yourself. But how should you get started? You can manage your own credit repair project, or you can hire a reputable credit repair service to do the work for you. Both options are reasonable, but which is right for you?

Starting Credit Repair on Your Own

Managing your own credit repair project can be very rewarding, but it will take some time and effort. Every single do-it-yourself advocate in the credit repair field will tell you the same thing; don't do anything until you have done your homework. You may do more damage than good. So pick up a good credit repair book and settle in for a nice mid-winter's read. Proper preparation will avert problems and insure credit repair success.

Get a New Frame of Mind

If you are going to manage your own credit repair project, it is essential that you embrace a whole new frame of mind about your credit report. In a nutshell, don't believe your eyes. That's right; it's time for you to give yourself the benefit of the doubt. One of the worst mistakes you can make is to ignore derogatory items on your credit report simply because they look familiar. The vast majority of errors on credit reports are generated by real events and will look familiar, but should not be reported as a matter of law. As you take the time to educate yourself about credit repair you will understand how common these terrible errors are, and what you need to do to correct them.

Get Organized

Another great tip for anyone about to start the credit repair process is to get organized. You will need to dispute your issues with all three credit bureaus individually, so it is essential to treat each bureau as a separate project. Set up three files, one for each bureau and plan on keeping meticulous records of all correspondence. Examine each report individually and you will notice some surprising differences that you must incorporate into your credit repair efforts. You may be surprised to see that the bureaus often report different account numbers for the same accounts, and even different variations of creditor names. For the best results customize each bureau dispute to match the info they report.

Don't Give Up

A final word of wisdom for your do-it-yourself credit repair project, don't give up. If the item you disputed is verified you should re-dispute it. You have the legal right to demand that the credit bureau request proper research by the creditor. If you re-dispute an item raise your voice! As your studies continue you will learn all about your legal rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act. Most good books on credit repair will point out that the credit bureaus won't do much for you voluntarily. You must become your own advocate. Prepare to stand your ground.

Brush up On Collection Laws

Another tip of value is to familiarize yourself with your rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Most decent credit repair books will include a section on dealing with collectors. If you ever had an account charged-off, or currently have any active collections make sure to read carefully. If you know your rights you can deal with collectors from a position of power, and that can make a world of difference in your credit repair project.

Or Hire a Credit Repair Service

If all of this is too much, if you have enough on your mind already, just hire a credit repair service. Just take the time to check them out, look at their Better Business Bureau rating, consider their years in business, and most important give them a call. I suggest you make a list of questions and have a chat. Hire someone you feel comfortable with and let them guide you through the maze to credit repair success. You can do it! Good luck!

Copyright © 2008 James W. Kemish. All Content. All Rights Reserved.