Better to pay off collection or keep my current credit up to date or paid up

Bo,

I have read through your website and thank you very much for supplying this information. I, too, need to raise my credit score very quickly in order to purchase a home in the next 2 months. I have some medical bills and a couple of other collections and charge-offs and a few lates. What do you suggest I do with my tax refund? Would it be important to pay off the collections and charge offs first, or should I save the money and use it to help pay other bills on time, ie credit cards and car payment?

Sincerely,
Trying to purchase a home
-----------------------------------
Bo Majors
to real person
show details
3:18 pm (4 hours ago)
It would be of most importance to keep current and open lines of credit

does your credit score go up after 7 years of negative credit

I was wondering after 7 years and negative items get drooped does your credit score goes up afterwards.
----------------------------------
Bo Majors
to Live Human

Jan 26 (2 days ago)
If you keep 3 open and current trade lines

mediacl clinic has 4 accounts liste4d on my credit report as derogatory

Bo!

I truly appreciate your website, you have awesome advice and have done a great job with breaking down what someone should do to correct their credit issues.

The problem I'm having is I just found out this week that a medical clinic I started going to on last year has placed 4 derogatory amts into collection on my report.
I started going to this location b/c it opened up right around the corner from my house, making urgent care more convenient.

I have called them to explain that I have never rec'v a bill from them and am getting no where. They say b/c they show the correct address on file, they refuse to remove it even after I told them I'm not disputing the charge and want to pay these amts. I just want to request they remove these amts.

I told her along with never rec'v a bill, I didn't even get a phone call and they have never stopped me from visits due to non-payment. She ( the office manager) told me that they don't do their own billing, b/c they don't have that type of personnel. They have a company in another state process their billing. I should not be penalize b/c their billing company does not f/u w/ their patients to try and collect a payment the proper way.

These amts. are $6, $8, $34, & 64.

Several ppl have told me to before making the payment ask them to agree to have this removed but it's not working for me.

This appeared on my report in Nov.

I'm stressing b/c it took me 3 years to start rebuilding my credit after a divorce so now I protect my credit by any means necessary. I wish the Fair Credit Act had a law where it has to be certain amt. before they place it on your credit report as a collection b/c this is truly ridiculous!

She told me she was considering removing it until she see where I once made a payment so b/c of this, she feels this is proof I rec'v the other bills. Which I am still denying this could still not be true, simply b/c there are times I don't rec'v mail properly b/c my physical address ends in SW and if you don't put it, sometimes we don't rec'v it. Why, I don't know but it happens.

I'm actually going up to the office today to meet w/the office manager personally b/c I'm sure it's easy for someone to say "no" while on the phone but I'm hopeful it will be harder with someone looking you directly in your face.

I just don't know why someone would hurt someone else's future when they are trying to work w/ their organization and not trying to deny bill.

Can you help me figure this one out????? Thank you!

Bo Majors
to LIVE HUMAN
show details
Jan 26 (2 days ago)
your om the right track
tell them your trying to quailfy for a home loan and these are the only bad marks on your credit. youll pay including all fees if they give you a statement in writing that says paid as agreeed and on time.
- Show quoted text -

----------------------------
Hi Bo!

I truly appreciate your website, you have awesome advice and have done a great job with breaking down what someone should do to correct their credit issues.

The problem I'm having is I just found out this week that a medical clinic I started going to on last year has placed 4 derogatory amts into collection on my report.
I started going to this location b/c it opened up right around the corner from my house, making urgent care more convenient.

I have called them to explain that I have never rec'v a bill from them and am getting no where. They say b/c they show the correct address on file, they refuse to remove it even after I told them I'm not disputing the charge and want to pay these amts. I just want to request they remove these amts.

I told her along with never rec'v a bill, I didn't even get a phone call and they have never stopped me from visits due to non-payment. She ( the office manager) told me that they don't do their own billing, b/c they don't have that type of personnel. They have a company in another state process their billing. I should not be penalize b/c their billing company does not f/u w/ their patients to try and collect a payment the proper way.

These amts. are $6, $8, $34, & 64.

Several ppl have told me to before making the payment ask them to agree to have this removed but it's not working for me.

This appeared on my report in Nov.

I'm stressing b/c it took me 3 years to start rebuilding my credit after a divorce so now I protect my credit by any means necessary. I wish the Fair Credit Act had a law where it has to be certain amt. before they place it on your credit report as a collection b/c this is truly ridiculous!

She told me she was considering removing it until she see where I once made a payment so b/c of this, she feels this is proof I rec'v the other bills. Which I am still denying this could still not be true, simply b/c there are times I don't rec'v mail properly b/c my physical address ends in SW and if you don't put it, sometimes we don't rec'v it. Why, I don't know but it happens.

I'm actually going up to the office today to meet w/the office manager personally b/c I'm sure it's easy for someone to say "no" while on the phone but I'm hopeful it will be harder with someone looking you directly in your face.

I just don't know why someone would hurt someone else's future when they are trying to work w/ their organization and not trying to deny bill.

Can you help me figure this one out????? Thank you!

LIVE HUMAN
to Bo

Actually, I told her that b/c we are in the process of working on prequalifying for a new home this is how her collections acct. was brought to my attention.
The only thing I have not offered was to pay any add'l fees. I'll see how it goes today and let you know.

I just can't believe I'm going through this.
So if after all this nothing changes, would the next step be to contact the credit bureaus? and if your answer is "yes" haven't I already opened a can of worms that may make it easier for them to dispute my argument that I never rec'v these bills?
--------------------------------
From: Bo Majors [mailto:majors@oskie.com]
Sent: Friday, January 26, 2007 8:14 AM
To: LIVE HUMAN
Re: working w/ medical creditors

your om the right track
tell them your trying to quailfy for a home loan and these are the only bad marks on your credit. youll pay including all fees if they give you a statement in writing that says paid as agreeed and on time.

On 1/26/07, Woods, Twanna <Twanna.Woods@laquinta.com> wrote:
Hi Bo!

I truly appreciate your website, you have awesome advice and have done a great job with breaking down what someone should do to correct their credit issues.

The problem I'm having is I just found out this week that a medical clinic I started going to on last year has placed 4 derogatory amts into collection on my report.
I started going to this location b/c it opened up right around the corner from my house, making urgent care more convenient.

I have called them to explain that I have never rec'v a bill from them and am getting no where. They say b/c they show the correct address on file, they refuse to remove it even after I told them I'm not disputing the charge and want to pay these amts. I just want to request they remove these amts.

I told her along with never rec'v a bill, I didn't even get a phone call and they have never stopped me from visits due to non-payment. She ( the office manager) told me that they don't do their own billing, b/c they don't have that type of personnel. They have a company in another state process their billing. I should not be penalize b/c their billing company does not f/u w/ their patients to try and collect a payment the proper way.

These amts. are $6, $8, $34, & 64.

Several ppl have told me to before making the payment ask them to agree to have this removed but it's not working for me.

This appeared on my report in Nov.

I'm stressing b/c it took me 3 years to start rebuilding my credit after a divorce so now I protect my credit by any means necessary. I wish the Fair Credit Act had a law where it has to be certain amt. before they place it on your credit report as a collection b/c this is truly ridiculous!

She told me she was considering removing it until she see where I once made a payment so b/c of this, she feels this is proof I rec'v the other bills. Which I am still denying this could still not be true, simply b/c there are times I don't rec'v mail properly b/c my physical address ends in SW and if you don't put it, sometimes we don't rec'v it. Why, I don't know but it happens.

I'm actually going up to the office today to meet w/the office manager personally b/c I'm sure it's easy for someone to say "no" while on the phone but I'm hopeful it will be harder with someone looking you directly in your face.

I just don't know why someone would hurt someone else's future when they are trying to work w/ their organization and not trying to deny bill.

Can you help me figure this one out????? Thank you!
----------------------------------
Bo Majors
to LIVE HUMAN

Jan 26 (2 days ago)
Look back at my credit page for remove completely
Read about debt validation. It might help you.
--------------------------------
On 1/26/07, LIVE HUMAN wrote:
thank you for your quick response.

Actually, I told her that b/c we are in the process of working on prequalifying for a new home this is how her collections acct. was brought to my attention.
The only thing I have not offered was to pay any add'l fees. I'll see how it goes today and let you know.

I just can't believe I'm going through this.
So if after all this nothing changes, would the next step be to contact the credit bureaus? and if your answer is "yes" haven't I already opened a can of worms that may make it easier for them to dispute my argument that I never rec'v these bills?


From: Bo Majors [mailto:majors@oskie.com]
Sent: Friday, January 26, 2007 8:14 AM
To: LIVE HUMAN
Re: working w/ medical creditors
your om the right track
tell them your trying to quailfy for a home loan and these are the only bad marks on your credit. youll pay including all fees if they give you a statement in writing that says paid as agreeed and on time.

On 1/26/07, LIVE HUMAN wrote:
Hi Bo!

I truly appreciate your website, you have awesome advice and have done a great job with breaking down what someone should do to correct their credit issues.

The problem I'm having is I just found out this week that a medical clinic I started going to on last year has placed 4 derogatory amts into collection on my report.
I started going to this location b/c it opened up right around the corner from my house, making urgent care more convenient.

I have called them to explain that I have never rec'v a bill from them and am getting no where. They say b/c they show the correct address on file, they refuse to remove it even after I told them I'm not disputing the charge and want to pay these amts. I just want to request they remove these amts.

I told her along with never rec'v a bill, I didn't even get a phone call and they have never stopped me from visits due to non-payment. She ( the office manager) told me that they don't do their own billing, b/c they don't have that type of personnel. They have a company in another state process their billing. I should not be penalize b/c their billing company does not f/u w/ their patients to try and collect a payment the proper way.

These amts. are $6, $8, $34, & 64.

Several ppl have told me to before making the payment ask them to agree to have this removed but it's not working for me.

This appeared on my report in Nov.

I'm stressing b/c it took me 3 years to start rebuilding my credit after a divorce so now I protect my credit by any means necessary. I wish the Fair Credit Act had a law where it has to be certain amt. before they place it on your credit report as a collection b/c this is truly ridiculous!

She told me she was considering removing it until she see where I once made a payment so b/c of this, she feels this is proof I rec'v the other bills. Which I am still denying this could still not be true, simply b/c there are times I don't rec'v mail properly b/c my physical address ends in SW and if you don't put it, sometimes we don't rec'v it. Why, I don't know but it happens.

I'm actually going up to the office today to meet w/the office manager personally b/c I'm sure it's easy for someone to say "no" while on the phone but I'm hopeful it will be harder with someone looking you directly in your face.

I just don't know why someone would hurt someone else's future when they are trying to work w/ their organization and not trying to deny bill.

Can you help me figure this one out????? Thank you!
---------------------------------
LIVE HUMAN
to me
show details
Jan 26 (2 days ago)
OKay, will do!

Once this is all clear, I will let you know, so I can be another person to brag that your advice does work!

I truly appreciate you putting so much information out there for individuals who care about their credit.

Have a great day!
:)
--------------------------------------------
From: Bo Majors [mailto:majors@oskie.com]
Sent: Friday, January 26, 2007 9:16 AM
- Show quoted text -
To: Woods, TwannaSubject:
Re: working w/ medical creditors

Look back at my credit page for remove completely
Read about debt validation. It might help you.
-----------------------------
On 1/26/07, LIVE HUMAN wrote:
thank you for your quick response.

Actually, I told her that b/c we are in the process of working on prequalifying for a new home this is how her collections acct. was brought to my attention.
The only thing I have not offered was to pay any add'l fees. I'll see how it goes today and let you know.

I just can't believe I'm going through this.
So if after all this nothing changes, would the next step be to contact the credit bureaus? and if your answer is "yes" haven't I already opened a can of worms that may make it easier for them to dispute my argument that I never rec'v these bills?
-------------------------------
From: Bo Majors [mailto:majors@oskie.com]
Sent: Friday, January 26, 2007 8:14 AM
To: LIVE HUMAN
Re: working w/ medical creditors
your om the right track
tell them your trying to quailfy for a home loan and these are the only bad marks on your credit. youll pay including all fees if they give you a statement in writing that says paid as agreeed and on time.

On 1/26/07, LIVE HUMAN wrote:
Hi Bo!

I truly appreciate your website, you have awesome advice and have done a great job with breaking down what someone should do to correct their credit issues.

The problem I'm having is I just found out this week that a medical clinic I started going to on last year has placed 4 derogatory amts into collection on my report.
I started going to this location b/c it opened up right around the corner from my house, making urgent care more convenient.

I have called them to explain that I have never rec'v a bill from them and am getting no where. They say b/c they show the correct address on file, they refuse to remove it even after I told them I'm not disputing the charge and want to pay these amts. I just want to request they remove these amts.

I told her along with never rec'v a bill, I didn't even get a phone call and they have never stopped me from visits due to non-payment. She ( the office manager) told me that they don't do their own billing, b/c they don't have that type of personnel. They have a company in another state process their billing. I should not be penalize b/c their billing company does not f/u w/ their patients to try and collect a payment the proper way.

These amts. are $6, $8, $34, & 64.

Several ppl have told me to before making the payment ask them to agree to have this removed but it's not working for me.

This appeared on my report in Nov.

I'm stressing b/c it took me 3 years to start rebuilding my credit after a divorce so now I protect my credit by any means necessary. I wish the Fair Credit Act had a law where it has to be certain amt. before they place it on your credit report as a collection b/c this is truly ridiculous!

She told me she was considering removing it until she see where I once made a payment so b/c of this, she feels this is proof I rec'v the other bills. Which I am still denying this could still not be true, simply b/c there are times I don't rec'v mail properly b/c my physical address ends in SW and if you don't put it, sometimes we don't rec'v it. Why, I don't know but it happens.

I'm actually going up to the office today to meet w/the office manager personally b/c I'm sure it's easy for someone to say "no" while on the phone but I'm hopeful it will be harder with someone looking you directly in your face.

I just don't know why someone would hurt someone else's future when they are trying to work w/ their organization and not trying to deny bill.

Can you help me figure this one out????? Thank you!
LIVE HUMAN
---------------------------
LIVE HUMAN
to me
show details
Jan 26 (2 days ago)
OKAY, HERE YOU GO!!!!!

I went to the Physicians office today and spoke directly with the office manager I had been trying to work with all week!
I figured if she could see that I was a real person and not just someone over the phone it might make a difference.
Also, I printed off the storyline of the movie "Pay It Forward"
I asked her had she ever seen this movie and she said "Yes" and knew exactly where I was going.
She applauded me for my persistence and said as long as I was going to pay the amt. in full she would have my delinquencies removed.
She made the call while in the office to the Collection Agency and also put it in writing on their letter head they have agreed to remove this b/c of my payment in full!

I am going to make sure I send your link to everyone I know b/c it is b/c of your wonderful advice I was able to approach this with hope of it getting cleared up.

and this was 4 derogatory marks on my report.
So I look forward in seeing my Credit Score moving back up!

Thank you Bo!!!!!!!!!!!!!
----------------------
From: Bo Majors [mailto:majors@oskie.com]
Sent: Friday, January 26, 2007 9:16 AM
To: LIVE HUMAN:
Re: working w/ medical creditors
Look back at my credit page for remove completely
Read about debt validation. It might help you.
----------------------------------
On 1/26/07, LIVE HUMAN wrote:
thank you for your quick response.

Actually, I told her that b/c we are in the process of working on prequalifying for a new home this is how her collections acct. was brought to my attention.
The only thing I have not offered was to pay any add'l fees. I'll see how it goes today and let you know.

I just can't believe I'm going through this.
So if after all this nothing changes, would the next step be to contact the credit bureaus? and if your answer is "yes" haven't I already opened a can of worms that may make it easier for them to dispute my argument that I never rec'v these bills?
--------------------------------------------
From: Bo Majors [mailto:majors@oskie.com]
Sent: Friday, January 26, 2007 8:14 AM
To: LIVE HUMAN
working w/ medical creditors
your om the right track
tell them your trying to quailfy for a home loan and these are the only bad marks on your credit. youll pay including all fees if they give you a statement in writing that says paid as agreeed and on time.
---------------------------------------
On 1/26/07, REAL PERSON wrote:
Hi Bo!

I truly appreciate your website, you have awesome advice and have done a great job with breaking down what someone should do to correct their credit issues.

The problem I'm having is I just found out this week that a medical clinic I started going to on last year has placed 4 derogatory amts into collection on my report.
I started going to this location b/c it opened up right around the corner from my house, making urgent care more convenient.

I have called them to explain that I have never rec'v a bill from them and am getting no where. They say b/c they show the correct address on file, they refuse to remove it even after I told them I'm not disputing the charge and want to pay these amts. I just want to request they remove these amts.

I told her along with never rec'v a bill, I didn't even get a phone call and they have never stopped me from visits due to non-payment. She ( the office manager) told me that they don't do their own billing, b/c they don't have that type of personnel. They have a company in another state process their billing. I should not be penalize b/c their billing company does not f/u w/ their patients to try and collect a payment the proper way.

These amts. are $6, $8, $34, & 64.

Several ppl have told me to before making the payment ask them to agree to have this removed but it's not working for me.

This appeared on my report in Nov.

I'm stressing b/c it took me 3 years to start rebuilding my credit after a divorce so now I protect my credit by any means necessary. I wish the Fair Credit Act had a law where it has to be certain amt. before they place it on your credit report as a collection b/c this is truly ridiculous!

She told me she was considering removing it until she see where I once made a payment so b/c of this, she feels this is proof I rec'v the other bills. Which I am still denying this could still not be true, simply b/c there are times I don't rec'v mail properly b/c my physical address ends in SW and if you don't put it, sometimes we don't rec'v it. Why, I don't know but it happens.

I'm actually going up to the office today to meet w/the office manager personally b/c I'm sure it's easy for someone to say "no" while on the phone but I'm hopeful it will be harder with someone looking you directly in your face.

I just don't know why someone would hurt someone else's future when they are trying to work w/ their organization and not trying to deny bill.

Can you help me figure this one out????? Thank you!

-- Bobo "Bo" Majorswww.oskie.com Footballwww.oskie.com/equifaxtransunionexperiancredit.htm Credit -- Bobo "Bo" Majorswww.oskie.com Footballwww.oskie.com/equifaxtransunionexperiancredit.htm Credit

------------------------
Bo Majors
GReat job Happy New Year
---------------------------
LIVE HUMAN TO BO MAJORS
show details
Jan 26 (2 days ago)
Thank you!

It will be!
:)

Debt Validation for collection companies

Hello Bo:Thank you for such a wonderful website and helpful information. However, I have a question that I could not find an answer to on your site. I had a credit card debt that was charged off from the original creditor in 2000. It was then sold to a collection agency #1 so I have 2 negative marks for the same debt. While I was making payments to collection agency #1, it was then sold to another collection agency #2. After that, I stopped making payments and was not bothered by any collectors. The negative mark from the original creditor is scheduled to be removed this year in May. Just the other day, I received a phone call from collection agency #2 in regards to the debt.My question is, after the debt is removed from my report by the original creditor due to the 7 year mark, would the collection agencies have to remove their mark too because it is the same debt?? Your reply would be greatly appreciated. Thank you,
Live Human
------------
Bo Majors
to Live Human
show details
Jan 25 (4 days ago)
read this

The addresses for reporting by mail were different from the one’s listed on the following:
Equifax P.O. Box 740256
Transunion P.O. Box 2000
------------------------------
You could use either one. I know that the ones on my website work. I also know there are others that will work also. Just make sure you say atten dispute dept.

The collection agency is willing to take 30% of my bill and settle so i can get a loan

Hello Majors,

Thank you so much for your blog. Quick question, I had a medical bill that went to collections, my credit score which was 720 dropped to 660, I have called the collection agency and asked them to negotiate, they are willing to take 30% off the bill. They said they will take it off my credit. However, is this true? Do they really take off a collection off your credit report? Or does it stay there for 7 years? How does this work?

Thank you so much!!!

LIVE HUMAN
--------------------------
Bo Majors
LIVE HUMAN
show details
Jan 22 (6 days ago)
yes they can get written confirmation before you pay. sounds like a great deal take it

Apartment complex turned over to collections for fees I do not owe

Hi Bo,I read your site and found it immensely helpful and informative. I waswondering if I might ask you a question regarding what I should do about anegative item on my credit report.In May of 2005, I and two roommates moved out of an apartment we weresharing. We were hit by the apartment company with what we considered anexorbitant damage bill - $353, considering we left the place in pristinecondition. We tried unsuccessfully to negotiate with the company, but theywould not budge. That was the end of it for a while...In July of 2006, I got a call from a bill collector on the damage bill. Itold him we thought the damages were exorbitant and would not pay. Itsubsequently went on all three of our credit reports as deliquent but"disputed by customer."Now, in January 2007, I would like to take care of this. I followed youradvice regarding trying to get the collection agency to remove the item inexchange for payment, but they refused and said they would only mark it aspaid. They say to remove it would violate their obligation to the reportingcompanies to provide accurate information.The collection agency is ACCBI in Florida. My current score is 662. Is itworth while to pay if I can't succeed in negotiations? Are there some othernegotiation techniques I should be trying? Could I go around the collectorat this point and go back to the apartment company?Thanks for your help,
LIVE HUMAN
----------------------------------
Bo Majors
LIVE HUMAN
show details
Jan 22 (6 days ago)
The apartment complex is were to go for credit relief
Im not sure that most collection agencies even operate by the law they state
check this out
http://www.creditinfocenter.com/rebuild/debt_validation.shtml
LIVE HUMAN wrote:
Hi Bo,I read your site and found it immensely helpful and informative. I waswondering if I might ask you a question regarding what I should do about a negative item on my credit report.In May of 2005, I and two roommates moved out of an apartment we weresharing. We were hit by the apartment company with what we considered anexorbitant damage bill - $353, considering we left the place in pristine condition. We tried unsuccessfully to negotiate with the company, but theywould not budge. That was the end of it for a while...In July of 2006, I got a call from a bill collector on the damage bill. Itold him we thought the damages were exorbitant and would not pay. Itsubsequently went on all three of our credit reports as deliquent but"disputed by customer."Now, in January 2007, I would like to take care of this. I followed your advice regarding trying to get the collection agency to remove the item inexchange for payment, but they refused and said they would only mark it aspaid. They say to remove it would violate their obligation to the reporting companies to provide accurate information.The collection agency is ACCBI in Florida. My current score is 662. Is itworth while to pay if I can't succeed in negotiations? Are there some othernegotiation techniques I should be trying? Could I go around the collector at this point and go back to the apartment company?Thanks for your help, LIVE HUMAN
-----------------------
Bo TO LIVE HUMAN

The apartment complex is were to go for credit relief Im not sure that most collection agencies even operate by the law they state. Check this out
http://www.creditinfocenter.com/rebuild/debt_validation.shtml
- Show quoted text -

how can i get student loans taken of my credit report if I consolidated all the loans with a finacne company

Bo,

First, thank you for being a good human being and helping others – that’s what life is supposed to be about.

Second, I am recovering from a divorce and am getting my credit back up to par.

Lastly, my question is how or can I get my student loans taken of my credit report if I have consolidated all the loans with another finance company? I had four student loans with different companies while going through school. After graduating, I consolidated all those loans under one finance company. Being that the four original loans were over 7 years old, I tried to get them to delete them from my report. They would not, even though I disputed that the loans were consolidated. If this makes any bearing one the matter, all loans, consolidated or otherwise are in good standing.

Thanks for your help,
Live Human
----------------------------------
Bo Majors
TO LIVE HUMAN
show details
Jan 22 (6 days ago)
If the loans were never more than 30 days late they are not hurting your report and i would not worry with it. Credit stays on your report for 7 years past the date of last activity. IF the date of last activity is past 7 years the accounts should be reomved.
You would dispute that the loans or outdated no consolidated. Matter of a fact consolidated only verifys that fact that the loans are a matter of fact.

I bought a car and had 40 inquiries. Can I dispute them to help my score

Hi Bo, thanks for publishing your tips online. I bought two cars in 2006 and had 67 inquiries ( hard ) made through the 2 dealers I bought from. My score lowered by 40 points as a result of it. Can I dispute the amount of inquiries on my report ? I am getting ready to buy a house and my score will increase the interest rate on a mortgage.
Thanks,
LIVE HUMAN
-------------------------
Bo Majors
TO LIVE HUMAN
show details
Jan 19
You can but i doubt it will work. After all they were real hits from a car dealer. I might be angry with the car dealer. Your credit must have been borderline because most dealers will not work that hard to get financing unless there is a problem.
- Show quoted text -
--------------------------------
Hi Bo, thanks for publishing your tips online. I bought two cars in 2006 and had 67 inquiries ( hard ) made through the 2 dealers I bought from. My score lowered by 40 points as a result of it. Can I dispute the amount of inquiries on my report ? I am getting ready to buy a house and my score will increase the interest rate on a mortgage.
Thanks,
----------------------
TO LIVE HUMAN
show details
Jan 19
Thanks for your reply, and yes it was 627 at the time.

las date listed 10-99, transfered to different lender. should they be removed now

Bo,
I read your website today and I have several questions for you regarding my credit report.
What is the most favorable “pay status” that you can receive on your report, is it “current?
A few years ago I closed many credit card accounts after paying off their balance. I was unaware, until today, that this was worse for my credit. I have many accounts listed on my report that say that consumer requested account closed. Is there anything I could and should do? Of few of the accounts should be coming off the report as of 10/07. Should I reopen them even if they have a zero balance?
I have several student loan accounts that all have zero balances and are closed. The last date listed on the report is for 10/99, however they have “transferred to different lender” on them. Shouldn’t they be removed by now?
I have a listing for a credit card where it says “bad debt, charge off, collection” on it. I think the balance on it may have been $1,126. It was closed July 2003. Should I reopen the account and pay off the balance?

Right now my credit scores are – Transunion-637; Experian -643; and Equifax -576.

Live Human
Bo Majors
To LIVE HUMAN
Jan 18
1. current, zero balance, no lates
2. It is not bad for your credit if you pay them off before you close them
3. if 10/99 is date of last activity then it should come off and you'll be done with it
4. yes you should if you can
something has happened on the equifax that hasn;t on the others. The 640's are ok and i wouldn;t be too concerned

credit card that had reported to Experian that I paid off, negatively showed up on my credit report with Experian and Equifax

Mr Oskie

Thank you for taking the time to review my correspondence.

I had a credit card that had reported to Experian that I paid off an account; however, they stated that I Settled the payment. Which in effect, this negatively showed up on my credit report with Experian and Equifax. The fact is that I paid the account off in full. I did not settle. When I contacted Experian, they started the dispute and they found out that Citibank reported, incorrectly. Experian removed it from my credit report; consequently, this raised my credit score with Experian by 100 points.

Now, I have noticed that the same Settlement was showing up on my December Equifax credit report. Of course, the seven years was up in January, and it automatically deleted from my Equifax report in January. However, my credit score is 75 points lower than Experian's credit score. Eventhough the same creditors, i'e Installment Loans and Revolving Credit, are on both bureaus' reports.

My question is: Since the Settlement perceivably, drastically lowered my credit score with Equifax, then the Settlement automatically dropped off of my report in January 2007, of course my credit score didnt automatically raise.....because in Equifax's mind, they believe that I had a Settlement in my credit history. Can I dispute my credit score with Equifax or can they retroactively remove the Settlement, which in turn will raise my credit score?


Thanks in advance!

REAL LIVE PERSON

Bo Majors
to Live Human
show details
Jan 18
none of this would be a fact.
your credit report must show something that is different to be that much lower. A charged up card a payement one day late. Something has to be different.

you are never penalized for something that is not currently on your report.

Don't use Capital One Credit Cards

My name is Mike.. I read your terrific advice, and it is great.. One question though about what you said about "get rid of and dont apply for capitalone credit cards".. cause they show maxed credit... I have fourof them, how can i tell that they are showing the exact same thing youdescribed?? thanks in advance...
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if you get the balance off the cards your score will rise no matter how you do it as long as you don't go over 80% on another card
You need to check your credit to make sure I am telling facts.
I have heard this from several reliable sources but i do not have direct confirmation.
do you know how they are reported and what your score is
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right now my score is 620. all 4 cap one cards are showing my credit limit as 0$ but shows my balances.. so I assume that is what you were talking about... so if i transfer those balances off of capital one cards to the others like hsbc for example, then that would be good for my score right? and still leave the capitalone cards still open, just with no balances? right? or just close them afterwards? by the way I really appreciate this.. if there was a linkon your site for a donation, i would send you one.. Ive told others about your advice after I noticed it... thanks!!
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well I KNEW IT
Ive been told this is fact.
yes...four cards could up your score big time i bet up to 700
I don't think it would be wise to keep the capital one cards active for any reason. if you can close them AFTER you have paid them completely off
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I am gonna transfer the balances off and will post an update later on... thanks again for your terrific advice...
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ur welcome

My Divorce has hurt my credit score and credit report

hello bo thanks for the very helpful and informative site. after a divorce my credit suffered dramatically. i have done nothing for well over 3 years on my credit until oct of o6. i purchased a tri report from trans union thru true credit. my experian was 583 equifax was 553 and trans was 558. i have done absolutely nothing else for 3 months had nothing new go on or anything. jan 13 of 07 i again checked my scores equifax dropped 33 points experian dropped 57 points and trans raised 15 points. do these other agencys know when you purchase from competiors. within 24 hours of purchasing my trans went up 5 pts. also the only thing i had done to my report otherwise is had over 5000 of bad reported child support removed which i thought would improve not be derogatory. PLEASE help what do i do we were planning on buying a home in 3 months. thanks in advance
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you can do nothing for 3 months and late bills can just show as even worse.
i cannot see your report 3 months ago or the one you have now but something changed. the most common is more than 80% owed against high credit limit.
there are som serious infractions on your reports. each bureau has different creditors that report to them so scores are alwasy a little different.
bureaus have no idea when you get a report online. they are too busy to even try to keep up with somthing so sinister

Raise my credit and dispute some errors on my report

I am tryimg to raise my credit score and I have already disputed some items on my report. I've now gotten my reports back from my disputes. Most of the stuff was updated as a paid collection account. How can I get this removed?
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Removed only happens when one bargains or talks to creditors.
Paid Collections will be on your report for 7 years.
They affect you only for 2 years if have new and current rated credit lines.

Dispute inquiries, names, negatives, credit repair compnies can help?

I’m looking for advice. I have been told by others that I can send in disputes on little things such as “jr” is missing from my name in hopes that those collections agencies won’t respond and therefore the negative entries on my credit report will be removed. Is this what the “Credit Repair” companies do aside from creating a new identity (illegally from what it sounds like)? Also, If I have paid off any collections, can I have them removed from my report?

Thank you so much for your help in advance.
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Credit repair companies do what my website tips say to do mostly, then charge you for it. Collections can removed in some cases by making deals to pay in full + fees if they take the credit entry off. Most collections deal with utilities, hospitals and the like. Because unpaid bills have been sold to collections for cents on the dollar collections compnies will sometimes cut a deal. This assumes the collections are total seperate from the original debt.
Call and make deals with collections.
Dispute errors on credit files and hope for the best.
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Since I’ve already paid these debts, is there still any way for me to negotiate them to come off my credit report?
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I doubt it.
If they are more than 2 years old and you have new and current credit the effects are slight if any

BK is scheduled to come off my report soon

Hi Bo-I'm writing you to find out if you have any suggestions about my BK thats scheduled to come off my report next month. Do you think I should write thebureaus and remind them? Or do you believe it will just fall off?Thank you.
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I would write them myself to make sure. Just so I could sleep better. I would wait until the expected date has passed and use the formal dispute form and state account is reported incorrectly as time has expired.
I would also make sure I was working on new good credit
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Wow, thank you for the advice. I wasn’t sure I would get a response but appreciate your insight.

arrangements to settle old debts with a company

I would like to know if you do not make arrangements to settle old debts with a company. Do they ever come off your credit report? Or is the only way to get it fixed is to set up a payment plan. Thank you
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they are supposed to come in 7 years from date of last activity.
sometimes creditors find way of manipulating this date. collections and stuff
once they set up payments though they cannot SUE you for the balance. So most either sell them to collections, sue or charge you off. suit or collections are the most painful. collections is where the redating come in most times.

Charge off debt for 1400. Should I settle the acccount or pay in full

Your website has been very helpful to me. I have 1 question that seems to be hard to answer. I have a charged-off debt in the amount of $1400. The company is willing to settle the amount for $400. If I a pay it in full, they said it would show paid in full. Is it better for my credit that I pay it in full or will it not matter as it is already a charged off account with poor payment history? Thanks
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Depends on the dates and all. Is the account is like 3+ years old they might readate the account and by paying make it new.
But my opinion is you sould pay them and take whatever deal they make and learn from your mistakes.
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I feel like I should be paying you for this advise.

The account was opened in 2000. It charged of in 2003. I have been making payments but inconsistently since 2003. Dumb on my part, but a juvenile college kid at the time. I want it done and gone, just not sure the best thing to do and don't want to waste $1200 that could be used to pay off current. The company did state that they thought it might fall off in a couple years if paid in full. Thanks again.
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Charged off in 03 is going to hurt your credit pretty good at 1400. SOOOooooo

If I had the the money I would pay them off BUT, I would ask for them to take the account off my credit totally for 1400! Or Update the account to show never late and paid as agreed. Which they can do but will say they can't do.
OR
I would settle for the $400.

Settlement accepted on this account
OR
Account paid in full on a charged off acount are not much different in the ling run and on your credit score.

Your score will get better if you keep current and open accounts and pay on time and get some time behind the late payments.

It just feels better to pay everyone, everything, like an alcholic is supposed to make amends on step nine. You will be less likley to take this path again.

Credit card company closed my account and still charge interest

I am sending this email to find out a question. Can a credit card company close an account, but still charge intrest.On my credit report it says that the account is closed by creditor.
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They sure can. Usually up to 180 days worth, then they go to courts or collection agencies and nasty stuff. Even worse they can add penalties which are stated in your credit card agreement which almost no one reads. These agreements basically say they can charge you whatever they want if this or that happens.

Rebuild my credit by paying unpaid bills and student loans

Hello Bo, My name is Live Person I am 27 years old I am in the process of rebuilding my credit. Currently myscore is 432 since 02/06. Most of the debt is student loans. I also have some unpaid bills. i wanted toknow how do i go about paying off these upaid bills,they total up to 1000 dollars. I do not know if i paythe creditor or to the breau.
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bureaus report what creditors send them only!
you must pay the creditors.
you need to get new current credit
go to my webpage and sign up for the orchard bank card where you pay 200 to get started. they report to bureaus. You will have paid off your debts and have a new gig going on....cool. you need to do that because no one will approve a 432 and you desperatly need new current credit.

lost my billfold with credit cards and drivers license

My 90 year old grandfather was in the hospital this weekend and lost his billfold which had everything in it. I need to report his Driver License # and his Social Security # so no one will be applying for credit cards etc. Who do I contact regarding this. I have called Experian, Transunion, and Equifax and no one can seem to help me....

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Bo Majors

show details
Jan 2
http://www.oskie.com/free-letter/Credit-Fraud-Theft-Identity.htm
Do this first. I know you will have to do something about the Drivers License stuff. Get some utilities bills, marriage license, social security check or go right now to the drivers license testing center and get anew id to use. But HURRY. Mail this stuff next day air with confirmation receipt
Go to the locol police department and file a report. Say it was stolen. which it probably was since you don't have it. While he was sleeping or it was left somewhere and when he came back it was gone. No one helped and lost and found does not have any records. Use your copy to send along with this form.

Thanks for the free credit advice on your website

I just wanted to say thank you for your website. The content is helpful and easy to understand. I now have a starting point and guidelines to improve my credit that i didn't have last week or last year. So thank you. God Bless for giving some good free advice!

Third time I have contacted you regarding credit issues

Hi Bo,This is the third time that I have contacted you regarding credit issues. Thank you for allowing the opportunity to do so. I have yet again another question that I need to ask you regarding credit. Just to let you know that I am still fighting with HSBC regarding the error on their part. They are not willing to do anything about it, and I am still very upset . I wish this could be removed totally from my credit report. This is not showing up on my Transunion report, but is on Equifax and Experian. I contacted all the bureaus over 30 days ago and I have still not received anything back from them.The reason that I am contacting you this time is in regards to being a cosigner. I co-signed for a friend almost 4 years ago for her car. She has been making all of the payments. Unfortunately, I received a call that she is now 30 days past due on her payment, and I was asked for the payment since this (may)affects my credit also. What is funny about this whole situation is this account has NEVER shown up on my credit reports. Will this now show up on my credit report, and if so, is there someway to fight it since it was never on there for almost 4 years??Thanks,
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The credit issuer may not routinely report. Especially if they are a high risk lender. Yes they can report even if they have never done so in the past. In fact they can even sue you for the balance if she were to default. This is why they ask for co signors. To have another body bag if needed.\n\n Sorry, but you better gets her ass in gear or pay yourself. ",

Bo Majors
show details
12/28/06
The credit issuer may not routinely report. Especially if they are a high risk lender. Yes they can report even if they have never done so in the past. In fact they can even sue you for the balance if she were to default. This is why they ask for co signors. To have another body bag if needed.
Sorry, but you better gets her ass in gear or pay yourself.

Need a home loan and my credit score is low. Raise my score fast

Hello Mr. Majors,

My name is Vernice and Iam trying to achieve another home loan. I sold my previous home last summer to get a fresh start on things after having a few months of financial difficulties.
My lender said with me having a couple of late mortgage payments that it would be better if I rented for about 6 months, pay off some bills and start fresh at the beginning of 2007. Here we are almost at the beginning of the new year, and my lender is saying that my middle score is around 536 because of the late payments. I got my credit report just yesterday and my scores were 567 609 and 609, how is a middle score determined???? Iam stumped on this. My lender says that I would need at least a 540 to seek out certain programs.

I really wish to stop renting and buy another home. My rent here is as much as a mortgage payment. Iam contacting the agencies in writing to dispute things that I do not know about on my report. They have me down for a few late payments and most of them are not so.

Can you please help me to understand this stuff???

thank you

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Bo Majors
to Vee
show details
12/27/06
So you do have all three reports. Each score reporesents one bureaus reprersentation of the credit reportesd to them. SO\nGo after the lower scores. My guess is your credit STINKS. 536 oh my gosh. You have not paid anyone. My suggestion would be to get a secured Orchard Bank Card here\nhttp://www.credit.com/r/problem_credit/af\u003dp39646&ag\u003d\nMaybe more as one needs at least 3 open lines of credit.\nIf you do not have all three reports and score in hand now get them here http://www.credit.com/r/truelink_fit/af/u003dp39646&ag\nread this page it is really that simple http://www.oskie.com/raise_credit_score_fast_quickly_free.htm So you do have all three reports. Each score reporesents one bureaus reprersentation of the credit reportesd to them. SO Go after the lower scores. My guess is your credit STINKS. 536 oh my gosh. You have not paid anyone. My suggestion would be to get a secured Orchard Bank Card here http://www.credit.com/r/problem_credit/af=p39646&ag=
Maybe more as one needs at least 3 open lines of credit.
If you do not have all three reports and score in hand now get them here
http://www.credit.com/r/truelink_fit/af=p39646&ag
read this page it is really that simple
http://www.oskie.com/raise_credit_score_fast_quickly_free.htm

repossessed and garnished

Hi, Mr. Majors,

My husband and I have had a very bad financial slump since 2001. It's not that I didn't want to pay my bills or get out of debt, I was unemployed for 4 years then finally got a temp job without uncertainty I've been on for almost 2 yrs. My husband can't seem to keep a job since then. Now, I just checked our credit today and we have judgements that were garnished in another county and they won't remove it from the original county. The 3 credit cards and 1 utility bill was just charged off today. I really don't know what I can do now I really don't have the money accept to pay off some small amounts on our credit by small payments. Our car was repossessed in 2002 and they garnished my husband in 2004 until he lost that job. We have judgements for at least 3 places of residents still on our credit too. I live in a hotel with 3 kids and can't get a place to live in. Will bankruptcy be too late or best at this time, to just start all over again? Please help me with any of your advice please.



Bo Majors
show details
12/26/06
Bankruptcy sounds like the best option from what I hear. I hope you don't have too many suits or liens prior to BK in that makes the BK not as helpful.

Sounds to me that more than anything you need a steady gig that works for you. I wonder if something else is happening inside this household other than job stuff. Is it bad job market or one can't hold a job long because of unsteady feet, or what?
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Hi, Mr. Majors,

My husband and I have had a very bad financial slump since 2001. It's not that I didn't want to pay my bills or get out of debt, I was unemployed for 4 years then finally got a temp job without uncertainty I've been on for almost 2 yrs. My husband can't seem to keep a job since then. Now, I just checked our credit today and we have judgements that were garnished in another county and they won't remove it from the original county. The 3 credit cards and 1 utility bill was just charged off today. I really don't know what I can do now I really don't have the money accept to pay off some small amounts on our credit by small payments. Our car was repossessed in 2002 and they garnished my husband in 2004 until he lost that job. We have judgements for at least 3 places of residents still on our credit too. I live in a hotel with 3 kids and can't get a place to live in. Will bankruptcy be too late or best at this time, to just start all over again? Please help me with any of your advice please.

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Jan 1
Thanks for your advice Bo, I've been thinking about this along time. I will go ahead and follow through while I still have a job. I need a fresh start because I'm tired of trying to figure out a way to pay them and pay for every day living expenses as well. It's too BIG of debts vs. too LITTLE paycheck. Oh yeah, my husband and I have study feet it's the job market ONLY. We will and do work. We've always paid our bills on time until we lost our good jobs in 2001 and 2002. We both are hard workers but just worked dead end jobs to support our family with whatever job came first.
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I would not gain all my advice from a Bk lawyer or trustee.\nGet some advice from a banker or money manager where you set everything out in front of them to make a good decision. You need some objective advice. Not just advice from a person that makes money from someone filing bankruptcy. \n\n Doing this will make you feel better about your decision AND will deflect some of the problematic self guilt asscociated with filing for BK.\n You are not your bank account.
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Jan 1
I would not gain all my advice from a Bk lawyer or trustee.
Get some advice from a banker or money manager where you set everything out in front of them to make a good decision. You need some objective advice. Not just advice from a person that makes money from someone filing bankruptcy.
Doing this will make you feel better about your decision AND will deflect some of the problematic self guilt asscociated with filing for BK.
You are not your bank account.