
*Individual results may vary depending on balances and rates
1 - Charge! Charge! Charge! Don’t worry about credit limits.
Be prepared to pay penalty fees and destroy your credit by going over your credit limit. As if that isn’t bad enough, one little mishap on another credit card often leads to higher rates on other accounts.
2 – Mail in your payments late. “Its only one day late.”
Keep in mind that creditors are not your friends! Don’t expect a late payment to be forgiven or forgotten. It will definitely cost you. Late fees are extremely high these days. So do yourself a favor and get your payments in on time.
3 – Charge to improve your lifestyle. “I love my best friends new living room set.”
Don’t use a credit card to keep up with the Joneses. You could end up paying double for that beautiful wall unit that you just had to have; you know the one that you couldn’t afford?
4 – Never check your credit report.
Your credit report says it all. It has an impact on the interest rates that you’ll be charged on credit cards, auto loans, mortgage and insurance. Your credit report may even determine whether you can rent an apartment or get employment. Still not worried about what your credit report says about you? Take our advice and get a copy of your credit report from all three Credit Unions. Do yourself a favor; make sure that your credit report speaks highly of you!
5 – Be careless with your identity.
Did you know that nearly 10 million Americans were victims of identity theft last year? The truth is that nobody ever expects it to happen to him or her. Identity theft can result in damaged credit and lots of lost
hours. Be extremely careful with your information. Buy a paper shredder! Throwing away personal and financial information in the trashcan is a written invitation for identity theft. Don’t be so free to give out your social security number or your bank account information over the phone or on the Internet. You never know who is watching or listening.
For a completely confidential debt consolidation credit counseling and budget analysis, call A New Horizon today! Let our Certified Credit Counselors help you get a handle on your budget and pave the way for a strong and secure financial future.