Cha' Ron A. Ballard, Esq.
charon.ballard@metrobrokers.com
(o) 404.843.2500

(c) 770.362.7837
(f) 404.236.7138
People Don't Care What You Know, Until They Know You Care.
                                    You and Your Credit

Your credit score can save your thousands or cost you thousands.  It can even prevent you from getting the things in life you want like a house, a car, a job.  Your credit history tells would-be lenders, landlords, and employers whether or not you are dependable financially.  Credit drives so many aspects of our lives.  It's vitally important that we continue to paly an active role in establishing and maintaining a good credit history.

Step One: Know what's on your credit report

               Annual Free Credit Report: www.annualcreditreport.com or 1.877.322.8228

Step Two: Correct any errors or mistakes -- File a credit report dispute

1- Send a "certified mail, return receipt requested" letter to the credit bureau that 
specifically outlines your dispute.
2- Mark your calendar for 30 days after the date the credit bureau received your letter.
3- If the credit bureau does not verify the disputed item, send a demand letter which asks the bureau to remove the item from your credit.  Be sure to include copies of  your original letter and the return receipt.
4- Give the creidt bureau 15 days to respond to your demand letter.
5- If the credit bureau has not responded to your demand letter, send a second one requesting the item be removed and telling them that 45 days have passed since your filed your original dispute.  Include copies of the original dispute letter, return receipt, and first demand letter.
6- File your dispute directly with the original creditor.  Ask for verification through written proof such as account statements and ask that the creditor remove the item from your credit report.
7- Mark your calendar for 30 days.
8- Send a demand letter to teh original creditor.
9- Add a 100-word statement to your credit file which explains the negative item should it remain on your credit report.
10-Seek legal advice

Step Three: Take action to maintain or increase your credit score

Tip 1: Live within your means
Tip 2: Pay your bills on time
Tip 3: Pay more than the minimum
Tip 4: Avoid credit card add-on services and programs
Tip 5: Don't chase lower rates by transferring balances
Tip 6: Know the terms of your credit agreement
Tip 7: Pay off accounts with the highest interest rates first
Tip 8: Don't open new credit too soon
Tip 9: Monitor your statements
Tip 10: Monitor your credit reports
 Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Metro Brokers, Atlanta, GA. A licensed real estate broker in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee.
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Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Firm is Independently Owned and Operated.