5 Best Ways to Maintain Good Credit

Having good credit is a subject of great concern in this current economic situation. Everyone is worried about the state of their credit so if you are, just know that you aren’t alone. There are millions of others out there that also want to know what they can do to improve their credit. The following are 5 suggestions or ways to improve or maintain good credit.

1. Buy LifeLock Identity Theft Protection You are probably wondering whether identity theft protection really helps. Many people feel that it is helpful in protecting you from fraud and identity theft. It is a relatively inexpensive service that give you a great sense of security that is invaluable these days. Moreover, identity theft is one of the most prevalent crimes now and is the reason that many people have bad credit. If you want to save yourself time, energy and money trying to get fraudulent charges off of your credit, you may want to invest a little money in LifeLock Identity Theft Protection.

2. Check your credit regularly with your free report Residents in most states are entitled to review there credit annually through the reports given by each of the three credit bureaus. This means that you can write the bureaus, call them, or go online to retrieve your free credit report. Remember you get one from each of the three bureaus every year. Make the most of this by checking to make sure everything is accurate. If there is any wrong information, you can dispute it. You won’t get your credit score with these reports, but you will know what good and/or bad things may be listed on your credit.

3. Call credit companies if you are going to be late on a payment, and get deadline extensions One thing that many people forget is an option is contacting the credit company. If you know you’re going to be late on a credit card or utility payment, notify the company. That way, you’ll be able to get an extension on your deadlines and you won’t get the same kind of impact on your credit. Communication goes a long way toward keeping your credit in top shape.

4. Try and only use credit for major purchases like houses and cars or in emergencies. Many people over extend their credit by using it for little things and everyday purchases. If you want to make sure you keep good credit, one thing you can do is avoid using it. Put only large purchases on a credit card or take out a loan only for major things. Keep a card on hand for an emergency rental car or hotel, but otherwise, keep away from your credit. Your score will thank you later.

5. Pay on time. It doesn’t get much easier than this, and yet many people break this cardinal rule. Late payments definitely get reported on your credit, unless you have talked to your creditors in advanced and made arrangements. Also, try and make more than the minimum payments when you do pay your credit cards. It will help you get out of debt faster, and help your credit score too.

LifeLock is an identity theft protection service that has been helping people protect their credit and their identities for years. It’s a great service, and many believe that Life Lock not only gives them a great service, but peace of mind as well. To learn more about LifeLock, go to www.lifelock.com.