Your Credit Score: What Is It And How’s It Calculated?

Have you ever wondered what your credit score is or how it's calculated?

Here's the skinny..

Your credit score is a three-digit number that lenders use to predict your creditworthiness. Credit reporting companies calculate your score based on your payment history, how much you owe, how long you've had credit and how often you apply for new credit. In general, the higher your score, the less likely you are to become delinquent on credit. If it's above 650, you'll probably qualify for a standard loan. If it's lower, you may have trouble getting new credit.

Because your credit score and credit report are constantly changing, it's important to review them on a regular basis, at least once a year. There is one main credit reporting company in NZ - Veda - it's a good idea to check your records with both companies. This helps you identify and correct any inaccurate information, detect any fraudulent activity and gauge your overall credit health.

If you're planning on applying for a mortgage, it's especially important to check your report a few months in advance. If your credit score is a little low, here are some actions you can take to improve it:

* Pay all your bills on time. Paying late or going into collection can reduce your score.

* Don't max out your credit limits. Keeping balances below 65-75% of your limit can increase your score.

* Don't apply for credit you don't need. Too many inquires over a short period can reduce your score.

* Don't close old credit accounts, even if they're inactive. This can make your credit history appear shorter which can reduce your score.

* Correct any negative inaccuracies on your credit report. This can increase your score.

Still wondering what your credit score is and how to improve it?

As an added value to our subscribers, we've made special arrangements for the first 10 people who call our office to receive a Free Credit Review and Credit Booster Consultation (Value of $97). Call us now at 0800 337 426. First come, first served.

Hope you make the cut...

Your trusted mortgage advisor,

Jeff Kerwin