When Collections, Charge-Offs Are Gone...

[Anne1208]

Yeah, and even getting those two old debts reflected as one collection rather than two would be helpful.  But you are right - they tends to break bills into many things and it does not help my husband's situation at all. I won't be surprised if there is nothing we can do about those, but it's worth reviewing them at least. It's just a shame that he has lived within his means and paid bills on time for years (and paid down these collections as soon as he could), and his credit score is in the crapper. It doesn't reflect his behavior or situation at all. Oh well, even if these things don't work, hopefully now that he is using credit cards again that will help.

He will also try the secured loan thing. He didn't want to do too many things all at once, but he will try that soon.  We have three paid-off cars so that should be sufficient collateral! 

[Anonymous]

No, just deposit a small amount of cash in a savings account with a local bank or CU. Usually the minimum is $300 or so. I did mine for $500 with SDFCU and the monthly payments are less than $15.

No need to put up a vehicle or anything like that.

[Anne1208]

OH awesome ok thanks! I just assumed they needed some asset.  That sounds good! I will let him know. Between that and a couple secured cards over the next 12-24 months that should help immensely. Thanks again!