Protecting Your Credit

Two of the most important things you can do to maintain a good credit history are protect your credit rating and protect your privacy.

How can you protect your credit rating?

You need to make careful decisions about how you use credit.

• Separate your wants from your needs. Having credit can make it easy for you to spend above your means, so you need to set good spending habits.
• Compare your income to your expenses and set priorities, goals, and limits. Create a budget [PDF 73K] and stick to it!
• Pay yourself first; put something in savings every month.
• Pay your bills, especially your mortgage, on time. Remember, on time means putting your payment in the mail 3 to 5 days before it is due.
• Get in a routine. Schedule time each month for paying your bills. Use your computer to set up online payments or automatic payments for recurring bills.
• Limit your number of credit cards and try to pay the balances in full every month. It is easy to treat credit cards like they are lay-away plans. Don't do it! It is an expensive way to pay for things.
• Get credit counseling if you need it.

How can you protect your privacy?

Identity theft and credit fraud can damage your credit history.

• Ask "why" when you're asked for personal information. It's your right to know why it's needed, how it will be used, and if you would like to provide personal information.
• Don't use common passwords, such as your mother's maiden name. This information is not difficult to find and can be used by an identity thief.
• Don't give out your Social Security or tax ID, PIN, bank account, driver's license, and credit card numbers unless you're absolutely sure how they'll be used. Most companies will allow you to create a password or phrase instead of providing your Social Security number.
• Be wary of emails from your bank or other organization you do business with asking for you to verify your password. Most banks do not send these types of emails and it is likely the email is a fraud. Do forward the email to the bank or organization in question so they can research the possible fraud.
• Sign your credit cards and debit cards immediately. If you lose them or they're stolen, anyone can sign and spend freely. In addition to your signature, add "Please Ask For ID" so your photo and signature can be verified.
• Report lost or stolen cards immediately.
• Take care when throwing away old bills or papers with private information. Shredding is your best option. Credit card offers and other financial offers should be thrown away with care, as well.