Common Credit Questions

Q: What is used to calculate your credit score?

A: Credit Scores are calculated based on the information that appears on an individual’s credit report the day your score is compiled. That’s why credit scores can vary , depending on when it is calculated. If you recently made a large payment to a credit card, then your score will likely be higher. Or, or you went on a spending binge, then your score will likely be lower. Other factors which influence credit scores include the number of inquiries from lenders, how long you have been credit active, and your payment history.

Q: How long do bankruptcies stay on credit reports?

A: Declaring bankruptcy makes a long lasting impact on credit reports. When a Chapter 7 bankruptcy is filed, most, if not all, debts are voided. This type of bankruptcy can stay on your report for up to 10 years. However, Chapter 13 bankruptcy, in which the debtor must repay some or all of the debt through a court-approved payment plan, remains on your credit report for 7 years.

Q: Can an employer get a copy of your credit report without your permission?

A: The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) restricts access to your credit file for your privacy. A prospective employer can only get a copy of your credit report if you give your permission.

Comments

3 Responses to “Common Credit Questions”

  1. Increase Credit Score Blog Roundup | Increase-Credit-Score.com on October 30th, 2007 11:18 am

    [...] in May I presented 4 credit score myths and answers to common credit questions. I also broke down what many people feel is very complicated, and showed how credit scores are [...]

  2. Dominique Richardso on November 11th, 2007 10:31 pm

    Is my student loan the reason why my credit score is low?

  3. admin on November 11th, 2007 11:01 pm

    I would say probably not, unless you have missed or defaulted on payments. I would think it would be because of lack of credit history or mismanagement of credit cards. That is usually most people’s problem

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