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Your credit report influences your purchasing power, as well
as your chances to get a job, rent or buy an apartment or a
house, and buy insurance. A history of timely credit
payments helps you get additional credit. Accurate negative
information can stay on your report for seven years. A
bankruptcy can stay on your report for 10 years. If you are
having problems paying your bills, contact your creditors at
once. Try to work out a modified payment plan with them that
reduces your payments to a more manageable level. Don't wait
until your account has been turned over to a debt collector.
Here
are some additional tips for solving credit problems:
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If
you want to contest a credit report, bill or credit
denial, contact the appropriate company in writing and
send it "return receipt requested."
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When
you contest a billing error, include your name, account
number, the dollar amount in question, and the reason
you believe the bill is wrong.
-
If
in doubt, request written verification of a debt.
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Keep
all your original documents, especially receipts, sales
slips, and billing statements. You will need them if you
dispute a credit bill or report. Send copies only. It
may take more than one letter to correct problems.
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Be
skeptical of businesses that offer instant solutions to
credit problems.
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Be
persistent. Resolving credit problems can take time and
effort.
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There
is nothing that a credit repair company can do for you
— for a fee — that you cannot do for yourself for
little or no cost.
If
you can't resolve your credit problems yourself or if you
need help, you may want to contact a credit counseling
service. Nonprofit organizations in every state counsel
consumers in debt. Counselors try to arrange repayment plans
that are acceptable to you and your creditors. They also can
help you set up a realistic budget. These services usually
are offered at little or no cost.
Universities,
military bases, credit unions, and housing authorities also
may offer low- or no-cost credit counseling programs. Check
the white pages of your telephone directory for a service
near you.

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- Quick & Private
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- Save Your Credit
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