If you've read our blog, you know the basic ways to improve your credit score: use a secured credit card, make all payments on time, dispute mistakes on your reports, get delinquent accounts current, etc. But there are other, unconventional ways to boost your credit score that you may not have heard of.
4 Unconventional Ways to Boost Your Credit Score
Here are a few of the more uncommon ways you can increase your credit rating:
- Have Your Rent Payments Reported – There are a number of services out there that report your rent payments to give your credit profile a boost. These services will get in contact with your landlord and then report your rent payments to at least one of the three major credit bureaus. If you are paying on time every month, you can boost your credit rating in a major way by doing this.
- Become an Authorized User on Another's Credit Card – If you are close to someone - perhaps a family member or close friend - who has a strong credit background, you can ask them to let you become an authorized user on their credit card. You won't necessarily have access to that account, but their stellar credit profile may somewhat boost your own score.
- Ask For a Good-Will Deletion – Black marks can remain on your credit report for seven years or more. If you've missed a payment or two, but have otherwise been a reliable borrower, you can talk to your lender and ask for a good-will deletion. You can send a letter requesting that the lender delete the negative information, which will boost your score. You'd be surprised how often they'll comply.
- Negotiate with Collection Agencies – If your debt goes into collection, your credit score and reports take a huge hit. Instead of paying off the debt right away, you can negotiate with the collection agency in writing. Ask them to remove the black mark from your credit profile in exchange for prompt repayment. Having that notation off your report will make a big difference.
Auto Loans Are Another Way
Here at Auto Credit Express, we want you to know that an auto loan is the perfect way to start the credit rebuilding process. We are confident that we will be able to find the perfect dealer for your unique financial situation. If you need a car and want to boost your credit score at the same time, you can get started by filling out our free and easy online application today.
