Jan
Until recently many people were not aware of just how important it was to have a decent credit history and rating, but since the onset of the global credit crunch, which has resulted in tighter credit conditions and increased difficulties in the financial markets, more and more people have realised that having damaged credit can make life extremely difficult in terms of finances. If your credit is damaged your chances of getting any form of finance are very slim, and even if you do get finance you will pay a very high rate of interest compared to those with good credit
If you are one of the lucky ones that have a good credit rating then you should make sure that you keep it that way by being responsible with your financial commitments. Always make debt repayment on time and for the right amounts, make sure that your bills are paid on time, and avoid making mass applications for credit in a short space of time, as all of these things can adversely affect your credit rating and make your financial future more difficult
If your credit is already damaged then you should take steps to try and repair your credit. Again, ensure that your bills and debt repayments are made on time and for the required amounts, and do not miss any payments. Also, if you apply for credit and are refused because of your credit rating avoid making further applications within three months, as this can further damage your credit and will further reduce your chances of getting finance in the future
Whilst there are lenders that cater for people with damaged credit even they have their limits, and those with severely damaged credit may find that they are not even able to get this sort of finance. You will also find that lenders that offer finance to those with bad credit will charge very high rates of interest, and this means that you end up paying way over the odds on your borrowing simply because of the state of your credit history and rating
{Another thing that you should do is check your credit report regularly, and you can easily do this by ordering it online or via the post or apply online for a copy of your