Friday, May 11, 2007

Low Credit Score = High Auto Insurance?

Do you think that being a good driver is enough to keep your car insurance low? Think again! A majority of U.S. insurance companies use credit scores or similar tools - called customer ratings or insurance scores - to pick whom they'll cover and how much they charge.

Proponents say credit scoring accurately predicts the likelihood that groups of people will file a future claim for insured damages. They say a bad credit history indicates financial irresponsibility, which translates into irresponsible behavior in other areas.

But for some individuals, it simply doesn't make any sense. For example, people who use little or no credit or pay cash usually end up with low credit scores - and they have to pay more for car insurance because of it.

The point is, a poor credit score can affect your life in many ways. And a car insurance rate is just another example.

Thursday, May 03, 2007

Do you risk your credit score if you cancel a credit card?

If you ever looked at your credit report (of course you did, we hope!) - you probably were shoked at the number of accounts listed. So you think if closing any of these old accounts you never use would be a good idea and will boost your credit score? Think again!
Here is a good explanation why you shouldn't do this. Keep them open!