Ten years ago I was faced with large unanticipated expenses at the same time I lost my job. Accounts went into collections and default, and my credit score tanked.
After I got back on my feet, I became interested in improving my score. I had one functioning credit card left, and I religiously paid it on time.
Gradually, I began to receive offers in the mail. I took them all, but used them sparingly to improve my utilization ratio. Over the years, I garnered a portfolio of eleven revolving accounts, all with perfect records. I watched my spending like a hawk, and discovered that I was as happy or even happier without many things I used to think I had to have.
I recently applied for a car loan, and was approved online instantly for $10,000, though my income is not high. My FICO score? 783!
The good folks here pointed me to many of the best lenders, the best info, and the best techniques. Perhaps more importantly, I got encouragement when things were bleak.
Thank you all so much!
If anyone is now where I used to be, hang in there, improve gradually, and before you know it that awful stress will be gone!
Discover IT $17k / US Bank Ace (VSig) $13.5K / US Bank Cash+ (VSig) $13.5k