@Anonymous wrote:My score through equifax is 484. Ouch.
I have three collections that are not near the SoL. I also have three accounts (not credit cards, they are through finance companies). I also have a car loan.
If I pay off the collections, with pay for delete, how much will this help? Also, if I can get a cosigner, I have thought about a signature loan to pay off the other accounts, and start fresh with just one account. This would save me money in interest, and cut my payments per month in half. Will this help? If I get the loan, pay it on time, and pay the collections, what will my credit look like in 12 months?
Ok, I realize you want to boost your score, but let me ask...is there a real "reason"? I mean for the hurry?
For the entire picture on your overall credit "health", you need all 3 reports. You need to READ...READ...READ here. before you jump the gun & make the mistakes we have all done
Read this carefully!!!! A wealth of wonderful information!
Also...think hard before asking anyone to cosign. You have what would be considered a crappy FICO there. (I can say this...I had the same at one time) Now, by asking for a cosigner, you are basically putting them on the spot. If you need a cosigner, they now know you have bad credit, if they didn't know already. If the loan is only to pay things up...do what you can & pay it on your own. I did & my rates sucked & all, but I paid it all off with no help. It made that last payment that much sweeter knowing I fixed my mess all on my own. After that I got a car w/ an 18% int loan. Crappy score=crappy rate. Paid for 2yrs & sold it. Sometimes you have to pay to get what you need....higher FICOs!
Ok...rant over. But go to that link & read the info. It's some of the best advice you will get on this board!
Come on back....we're all here to help!!! 
