How to Increase Your FICO Scores With Debt Consolidation?

FICO score is one of the primary things one has in mind while looking out for a debt relief option. Depending upon the FICO scores your ability to get credits in future is decided. As such it is better that you maintain a clear payment history so as to increase your chances of getting credits in the future.

There is often a misconception that debt and revolving charges are the only determining factors behind your score. The fact is that only 30-35% of your FICO scores are decided by credit card debt and revolving charges. There are associated factors that influence the markings on credit score. High balances close to your credit limit influences your personal credit scores negatively.

In these circumstances the best way to improve your credit rating is by paying off outstanding debts through debt consolidation programs. Here are some ways to increase your scores with consolidation:

• With the help of a consolidation loan by means of mortgage refinancing or a home equity loan (second mortgage) you can pay off your multiple debts.



• You can reduce the interest you pay on your taxes up to 100%. With the new bankruptcy laws getting tougher, consolidating your credit card debt with a second mortgage or home equity loans and other consumer debt can be a far better option.



• It helps in lowering your debt-to-income ratio. The debt-to-income ratio defines your financial stability and is calculated by dividing your monthly minimum debt payments by monthly gross income.

With debt consolidation loan your FICO scores are hurt only when you look for other loans even when there are other existing ones, incur new debts even after getting the loan or you do not pay your bills on time.

Fair Isaac and Company (the makers of the FICO credit scoring system) suggests that if you need a loan; it is better to conduct a market survey of 30 days to get the best rate. It is said that looking for a new credit can result in lowering of your scores as it comes with higher risk. However multiple inquiries from auto or mortgage lenders within a short period of time do not necessarily result in reduction of FICO scores.

In order to increase your FICO scores you should consider following few tips:

1. 1. Put a check on your credit card usage. Keep balances at 30% of your credit limit or lower on at least two major credit cards but use them as your last resort.



2. 2. Do not lose your revolving accounts as it raises your debt-to-income ratio and makes your credit history look younger than it is. Try to keep your credit accounts open, but just do not use the credit cards.



3. 3. Pay your bills on time without any defaults as delinquent payments and collections effect your score negatively.



4. 4. If there are any missed payments pay them off as soon as you can in order to stay current on your account. This will help you to increase your scores.



5. 5. Clear off balances so that you can reduce your outstanding debt. It would be beneficial if you can keep your balances within 50% of the credit limit.



6. 6. Avoid taking any new debt as it would appear on your credit report along with the "inquiries" or debts you previously had. These decrease your score to a great extent, thus it is better that you avoid them.

Having a positive FICO score enables you to make informed credit choices in the future. It also ensures that you have the best scores when it is time to get an auto loan or a mortgage. If you can manage your scores wisely you can expect a good amount of savings in the future. It is always advisable that you know where you stand with your finances so you can look up to a future with greater financial stability.

This article is a guest post by BG, who is an IAPDA debt arbitrator associated with Oak View Law Group.