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Secured Credit Cards offer applicants a great way to repair their credit after divorce or bankruptcy. However, most people end up hurting their credit more than helping it.
When rebuilding credit with a secured credit card most people feel the need to make frequent charges and carry a balance to prove they can pay on time.
However, much to the contrary, this is not the best way to strengthen your credit. When a creditor looks at your credit they are only looking for these three things: |
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- Length of time the account has been open
- Credit to balance ratio (how much you owe)
- Pay history.
The credit bureau only shows them if you have been late, not if you have been making payments on time. Lower credit to balance ratio's help your credit scores and your debt to income ratios as well.
The best way to use secured credit cards is to treat them as a savings account. Every payday or when you pay bills send a little money into the card and do not use the card. This way your credit limit increases giving the appearance of stronger credit. More on how to rebuild your credit with a credit card... |