Finance: When To Check Your Credit Score

It’s important to maintain your credit in order to have a good financial livelihood. While most people know to keep track of their credit score, most do not pay much attention to their credit reports.

Your credit report can tell lenders and creditors a lot about you that a score can’t say on its own. Because of this, you need to routinely check your credit report at least once a year.

But sometimes an annual check isn’t enough to make sure your credit is in good standing. It would be a good idea to do additional checks on your credit report in the following situations:

When preparing to make a major purchase with credit

If you are planning to make a large purchase with a credit card, such as a home, automobile or boat, you should check your credit report beforehand. Sometimes unexpected events from your past, such as an unpaid utility bill can show up and reflect negatively upon your ability to repay loans.

Checking your score can give you the opportunity to clear up any loose ends before making a big purchase.

When you have been denied credit

If you are ever denied when attempting to open a new line of credit and your credit report was used in the decision, you are entitled by law to a free copy of your credit report.

You can then use your credit report to review anything that may have influenced their decision. Credit reports aren’t perfect, and mistakes to happen, so reviewing your report can make sure than you weren’t rejected for false or inaccurate information.

When your identity is stolen

Identity theft is becoming more and more common every day. Often times, identity theft can go undetected for years. If you think your identity may have been stolen, reviewing your credit report can show if there are unauthorized lines of credit or purchases made in your name.

When you’re trying to improve your credit

If you’re trying to rebuild your credit, there’s no better place to start than by looking at your credit report. Your credit report contains all of your account activity and can help you outline what you need to do to get your score back into top form.

You may be wondering what is a good credit score. If so, you could possibly benefit from credit repair.