Matt:  Take a look at this link http://www.essortment.com/career/childsupportcr_saun.htm   I hope you get this arrears taken care of, not only for the sake of your credit, but for the sake of the involved child. ... View more

My sisters scores were in the low 500's and she had no issue with renting from a management company.  She told them UPFRONT what the issue was.  Approved without a hitch.   I agree with above, try finding just a studio for the first year until your scores improve.  Look on CraigsList for private rentals.   That car payment is a KILLER, you're right.  OUCH!     ... View more

I went through ClearPoint Financial.  After recently having an issue with a $2 per month shortage causing 30 day lates, it's all straightened out.  My personal debt was $8k and 2k to Bank of America.  I pay $17 per month to ClearPoint Financial for their services (and that's negotiable) and $165 + $45 to Bank of America for my two accounts.  I've been with them for 18 months.  The sign-up fee was $35.   The negotiated interest rates are 4% for my credit card and 12% for signature loan.  I've been able to pay a bit extra now and again, so I'm now at $5500 & $900.  No late fees or overages now!   ClearPoint Financial was recommended to me by Bank of America.  I have found the counselor to be very knowledgeable.  I am NOT crazy about their phone bank people though...sort of less than helpful.   I emailed the President & my email was immediately answered.  I am very satisfied with their services. ... View more

Beach:  wouldn't you fall under the 'currently not collectible' guidelines?   The IRS, with their ridiculous interest and penalties make it virtually impossible for people to pay!  This is why it's best that you speak to a CPA to discuss those 'options' that we know you have!  The IRS certainly isn't going to advise you on how to dump that debt!   I DO hope you have written a letter to REPORT that moron who suggested you sell your belongings.  Keep sending that letter out until you have resolution on your behalf toward that advisor.    I UNDERSTAND that some people can pay and try to beat the system, but if you absolutely cannot pay...then you can't.  Work it!     ... View more

I brought two accounts current & my score went up 95 points, in one month.  I had a baddie deleted so I had a total jump of about 105.     Last week I used 25% of avail. credit on one account and it dropped over 25 points, but I'll gain that back next month when I pay the balance off (hopefully).   As soon as you bring your balances down...you'll see the score jump up.       I also want a 700 for Christmas! ... View more

What about donations to Goodwill, etc????????  I'm sure you donated a FEW things, right?  It's ALWAYS worth a shot! ... View more

According to most people here, creditors are sometimes willing to accept a gw after a couple of years of good payments.  I don't think there is a 'quick fix'.  My sisters scores were in the low 500's and she needed a co-signer.  Her interest rate was about 13% WITH a co-signer.  She was told that she could refi the car after a year of good payments.  Message Edited by fishbjc on 12-17-2007 04:22 PM ... View more

You're probably not going to get an auto loan with that score, but you already know that.  I can definitely see why you will need reliable transportation.  Can your father purchase the car in his name?  I've seen some leases on small kia's for around $129 per month.   Don't take a chance with your safety.  As far as your credit goes...it's definitely fixable.   Why don't you call around to a couple of dealers and talk to their credit manager, see where you need to be.     ... View more

For some reason, some people don't like being 'helped'.  I prefer to accept all the help I can get.   If she overpays escrow, she will either receive a check or can move it over to principal.  I always pay something extra...even if it's ten bucks...it all adds up! ... View more

My mortgage statement has a line for additional principal.  This is a good thing because if you ever have an illness, some companies will let you take the $$$ from the additional principal and move it over to a regular payment.  I have Chase Mortgage now, but $ Bank also accepted additional principal.    I have heard of sub-prime lenders who do not allow this.   ... View more

Beach, don't assume the IRS is CORRECT in their findings.  Take those prior returns to a tax professional...there MAY be deductions, etc that weren't filed for that you CAN deduct.  Those years can be amended.  The IRS SAID I owed them almost $4500 and our CPA had it reduced to $3200.   I'd like to suggest using our firm CPA.  She was AWESOME in finding me hidding $$$.  She's VERY reasonable and will work with you via fax, etc.   If you would like her email, send me a private im. ... View more

Have you thought about purchasing a used car and letting your dad sign for the full loan?  When your credit improves, you can purchase another car with your own credit.  160,000 miles isn't all that much.  I have 138k on a honda and it runs like a top. ... View more

I can't say from personal experience, but my sister needed a co-signer with an almost 500 score and her interest is ridiculous. ... View more

None for us, but my mother and inlaws both had insurance refunds.  Heck, even if it's a couple of dollars, it's a cup of coffee!!!! ... View more

I don't know how things are now with mortgages, but pretty tough from what I hear.  I had a $50 collection from medical, of which I had NO idea,  I was declined for refinance of my mortgage until I had that marked as 'paid in full'.  I was told that all collections must be off of the cr.     ... View more

Instead of adding a p/t job, have you ever considered eBay?  When the weather is warm I go to garage sales, estate sales etc to pick up goodies.  I clean things up and sell them.  Even if you earn $100 per month, it will really help you out.  For example:  Old Collectible Longaberger Basket, I paid $25 and sold for almost $1,000!  Other baskets I picked up for a couple of dollars and sold them for about $20-$30 each.  Study collectible jewelry books, records, crystal.   What happened to the IRS being 'people friendly' now?  NOT! ... View more

Hi Beach!  First let me sympathize with your plight.  Our Government doesn't seem to 'want' to help the middle-class people.  Two years ago I made an error on the form our CPA provides us to help with our taxes.  I double-listed our mortgage interest.  Of course, last year the IRS caught it and now with interest I owe $4000.   Our CPA had us fill out paperwork to apply for a payment plan.  According to her, just about everyone is approved unless they apply for some ridiculous low amount of $25 per month on our income.   We pay $100 per month.  Since we get back a decent tax return, we will forfeit that entire return this year.  Interest does accrue.  The IRS lady gave you incorrect information and should be reported for suggesting you sell your belongings...what an a$$.  I doubt you can get a settlement from the IRS, but they WILL work out a payment plan with you and naturally, snag your returns.          Message Edited by fishbjc on 12-15-2007 05:51 AM ... View more

Cleveland had a bit of rain, now we're just cold.  Our family Christmas party is tomorrow, of course, it's expected to be miserable outside.    Leaving for NC on the 21st, driving thru WV mountains.  I PRAY that the weather isn't too bad.  Cannot wait to move to NC....someday. ... View more

Absolutely positive...I'm a bit befuddled.  It 'could' be an error.  Tomorrow I'm going to check the other two to see what's up. ... View more

Midnight...I pay every cent.  If I bought it, I pay it.  I agree with you on THAT!  Seeing this post really made me feel good!  I KNOW we can all be there!  So Congratulations on doing a stellar job on getting back on track and sharing your story! ... View more

A shiny new mustang WOULD look good under my tree...even if it's just a glossy 8x10.   Keep me updated! ... View more

Hopefully, they'll take care of it.  I would just like that little flag to fly away....far-far away. ... View more

Question....is there a time frame that credit must comply with my request to report removal of au from credit bureau? ... View more

Now this is funny because as I read your post I see I have a new message from Yahoo...it's First Premier inviting me to apply...thanks for the 'heads up' .   Keep trying though..the next person may say yes. ... View more