Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Credit Building Options for Students

As you make way towards the corporate world, you must strive to build personal credit history as well. Thus, by the time you graduate from college, you’ll be in a much better position to deal with financial companies and even potential employers.

Students have several options when starting to build credit. Consider the following options and choose one that suits you best:

Student Credit Cards. Credit card issuers grant easy approval to college students. In fact, they even distribute fliers at campuses to encourage young people to sign up. However, under the New Credit Card Law, such marketing campaigns will not be allowed within 1,000 feet at school campuses.

The New Law also restricts young adults who are under the age of 21 from getting their first credit card unless they have a co-signer or they can show proof of independent income. If you are under 21, you must have a parent or a guardian with good credit history to back up your account.

Before signing up for a college credit card, carefully evaluate your choices. Compare the rates and fees, as well as the Terms of using the card. Start with one student credit card only to reduce the risk of overspending and bad debt.

Secured Credit Cards. A secured credit card is another option since anyone can get approved, even with no credit or bad credit history. However, secured cards require a cash deposit which can range from $200 to $500 and up. The amount of deposit you make will also define your credit limit.

Read Full Article: Credit Building Options for Students

Thursday, May 6, 2010

How to Get Out of Student Credit Card Debt

When put to use responsibly, credit card for students is a perfect tool for establishing good credit history. A survey done by Nellie Mae, a leading student loan provider, shows that many young people graduate from college carrying an average of $2,700 to as much $7,000 cost of credit card debt.

For anyone who is currently trapped in bad debt, there is no reason to panic. Check out the following steps to wipe out your debts one step at a time.

1. Take charge. Even when your personal credit card debt looks impossible to pay, do not give in to frustration. Be positive and do the necessary steps immediately and develop strong determination.

2. Know your debts. Before thinking of a solution, you should be aware about the precise status of your accounts. Evaluate your billing statements. Get a copy of your credit profile so that you can assess your financial records.

See to it that there aren’t any unauthorized charges in any of your accounts. In case you find errors, contact your bank without delay to fix the problem. Should your creditor ignore your complaint, send a letter of dispute to the credit agency that released your report. An investigation will be conducted within 30 days. Next, you will be advised about the result of the investigation and sent an corrected copy of your credit report.