Applying for credit can be easy, whether it's a credit card or a loan on your car. But, if you have a bad credit score, you could be seen as a potential risk. If you've had problems in the past that may be preventing you from getting credit, what can you do to make yourself a safer bet for lenders?
We all need a good credit score because it tells lenders that we're responsible borrowers - the better your credit score, the easier it is to get credit. Assuming you don't know what your credit score is, there are several credit agencies that will let you check. If the result shows you have a bad or low score, here are five ways to increase it to make you a more attractive prospect to lenders.
Get on the Electoral roll
This is really important to help your credit rating. All lenders look at information on the electoral roll to confirm your details when you apply for a loan. If you're not listed, it could be harmful to your application. However, if you've recently moved, your lender may ask for proof of residence as an alternative, such as utility bills.
Pay your bills on time
Paying bills on time--or before they're due-- is a great way to boost your credit score. Any missed or late payments will show on your record for six years, so prompt payments show lenders that you're a responsible borrower. Direct debit can help keep on top of regular payments so you're always paying on time.
Pay more than the minimum
If you already own a credit card and keep up with your repayments, this works in your favour. It shows lenders that you're already creditworthy, so they'll look favourably towards you. Always try and pay more than the minimum amount each month - it proves you're making efforts to pay off your debt quicker.
Keep balances low
The lower your outstanding balances are on your credit cards, the better. Staying well within your available limits can improve your credit score overall. Also, try not to eat into your bank overdraft - this is another form of credit that people often overlook.
Don't make too many applications at the same time
Applying for credit too often can look dubious. You might just be seeing if a lender will accept you, but lots of applications in a short space of time can look like you're desperate and someone who'll have difficulty making repayments.
Withdraw the cash from your car with a logbook loan
While this is a useful guide to helping improve your credit in general, at Car Cash Point, we don't necessarily require a good credit history to help you. As a fully regulated and authorised lender, we look at helping you withdraw the cash from your car with a logbook loan.
We don't carry out any formal credit checks when you apply for a loan on your car. So, as long as you own your vehicle and are free from any finance on it, we simply use the car as security against your loan. If you need a lump sum to help with an emergency or any other need, a loan on your car could be a good alternative, especially if you have a low credit score.
With our longer loan periods from 1 to 5 years, we can tailor your repayments so they suit your own finances. We offer either weekly or monthly payments, plus you're free to make overpayments, meaning you pay less interest, and you can even pay off your loan early without any additional fees or penalties.
To give you an even better deal, Car Cash Point will never be beaten on price! We're the cheapest and best value logbook loan provider, so if you find a loan on your car that's better, we'll guarantee to beat it by 10%.
Our expert team are on hand six days a week from 8am to 8pm to help you and answer any questions you might have. They'll explain the whole application process without any confusing jargon to make sure you get the right loan for you.
Call us today on 0333 220 4419 or apply online. Car Cash Point can approve a loan instantly, giving you the money you need on the same day and possibly within just one hour.