Landlords can run tenant background checks to verify income, employment, rental history, and credit rating. Credit reporting agencies like Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion offer credit checks for a fee, while private companies offer subscription services. Poor rent history may not show up on credit reports, so talking to former landlords may be a better measure […]
Trade credit allows vendors to extend credit terms to customers, including liberal terms and revolving credit. Both parties benefit from obtaining products at reasonable prices and building customer loyalty. Trade credit can be useful for financing purchases, but it’s important to ensure workable terms for all parties involved. Trade credit is a situation where a […]
Unlimited credit cards have no spending limit but can negatively impact credit scores if not reported correctly. American Express is a well-known provider, but borrowers must pay balances in full each month. It can be a blessing or curse, depending on interest rates and spending habits. An unlimited credit card is one with no limit […]
The Equal Credit Opportunity Act prohibits lenders from discriminating based on race, religion, national origin, gender, marital status, age, or source of income. It applies to most lenders and covers all aspects of the lending process. Enforcement is carried out by federal agencies and individuals can also file lawsuits for discrimination. Personal information can still […]
The bad credit mortgage approval process is similar to that for good credit, but may require a larger down payment and participation in housing counseling. Pre-approval is recommended, and special mortgage programs may be available. An appraisal is required before finalizing the loan. The bad credit mortgage approval process is not necessarily much different than […]
A credit card CVV number is a security code that appears on credit and debit cards, providing an extra layer of protection against unauthorized use. It is not included in the embossing and is required at the point of purchase to reduce the incidence of fraud. Also known as a credit card security code, a […]
A credit card subpoena is a legal document that summons the recipient to appear in court for an unpaid credit card debt. The complaint attached to the subpoena defines the nature of the case and requests payment. Responding to the complaint and appearing in court is important to avoid default judgment and negotiate a payment […]
The Making Work Pay tax credit was a temporary measure to help reduce the financial burden on taxpayers caused by the 2008 recession. It was available for 2009 and 2010 and had set limits for eligibility. The full amount was $400 for individuals and $800 for married couples filing jointly, and it was refundable. The […]
A new car tax credit is a deduction or credit on taxes for purchasing a new car, often used to stimulate the economy and reduce reliance on oil. Qualifying factors and income limits apply, and it may be a deduction or credit. It is not consistently offered and varies by region. A new car tax […]
Online credit card processing involves the consumer, merchant, credit card issuer, and payment processing company. Personal information is verified and transmitted through a secure network to prevent fraud. Transactions can be declined if there is a conflict with the credit card issuer’s database or insufficient funds. Once verified, the processing company deducts fees and sends […]
Choosing the best credit card for college students depends on factors such as ease of application, APR, annual fees, customer service, and rewards. Students should prioritize their needs, such as low APR or rewards, and aim to build credit and develop good financial habits. Customer service and rewards programs are also important considerations. Finding the […]
Credit card harassment occurs when creditors use abusive techniques to collect overdue accounts, such as frequent phone calls, abusive language, or contacting friends and family. It is illegal and punishable by law, but proof is required. Communicating with the creditor and requesting the cessation of harassment is effective. Simply settling the debt out of court […]
The US federal roofing tax credit encourages homeowners to use Energy Star products for re-roofing to create jobs in the construction industry and lower electricity costs. Only Energy Star products qualify, and pigmented coated metal roofing and cooling granule asphalt roofing are eligible. The aim is to reduce the amount of heat inside the house […]
A company’s professional image is related to how it handles its finances and interacts with clients and creditors. Creditors consider factors such as financial records, credit reports, and the experience of business leaders when determining credit risk. Defaulting on a loan negatively affects a company’s trade credit risk and credit activity can remain on its […]
A clean letter of credit allows for payment without additional documentation, commonly used in international trade. Applicants provide documentation to demonstrate creditworthiness and negotiate a contract with sellers. The credit limit may be renewable each year, and companies must protect the document from counterfeit drafts. A clean letter of credit allows the applicant to issue […]
Vendor credit is when a seller extends credit to a buyer, allowing them to receive products now and pay later. This model is used in various settings, including import/export, and can be structured to require upfront payment and a promissory note for the remainder. Both parties benefit, but finance charges are applied to the outstanding […]
Consumers can correct credit report errors by obtaining a report every year or two, verifying information, and contacting credit card companies or reporting agencies to update incorrect information. Legal assistance may be required for more complex issues, and fraud or identity theft should be addressed with an attorney. Few setbacks cause more heartache than credit […]
An adverse credit remortgage is a home loan for those with bad credit, offering lower interest rates and other benefits to pay off an existing mortgage, finance repairs, or increase equity in a home. However, the interest rate is generally higher due to the increased risk to the lender. Homeowners should be prepared for a […]
Consumer credit counseling provides financial advice to those with unmanageable levels of debt. A credit counselor assesses the financial situation and educates on possible options to manage debt, including debt management plans and bankruptcy. Seeking counseling does not usually affect credit scores, but it is important to ensure the counseling company is legitimate. Consumer credit […]
Using a bank card as debit or credit affects how the transaction is processed and may impact fees and rewards. Funds are taken directly from the account in both cases, and using a card as credit doesn’t create a line of credit. Choosing debit may save money for smaller businesses, while using credit may offer […]
