If your credit rating is not that great, you are not alone. In this economy, a lot of people have credit scores that are not so hot. A poor credit score can affect your ability to rent an apartment, find a new job, and get approved for all sorts of loans. However, it is possible to improve your credit score over time. It will take some work and dedication on your part, but the results are really worth it. Here are some great tips on how to improve your credit score:

Check Your Credit Report

The first thing you have to do is check your credit report for any errors. You are allowed to receive one free credit report each year. If you do find any errors on your credit report, don’t forget to notify the credit bureau. These credit report mistakes will negatively impact your credit score. If you would like to see what’s in your credit report for free, you can visit annualcreditreport.com

Set Up Payment Reminders

If you want to improve your credit score, you have to make your payments on time each month. Some credit card companies offer payment reminders that are sent through email or text messages. If you have trouble remembering your payment dates, you should definitely sign up for the service.

Contact Your Creditors

The worst possible thing you can do when you are about to miss a payment is to ignore your lender.  If your credit card payments are too high, do not be afraid to contact your creditors. If you don’t ignore your bills, your creditors will likely be willing to work with you. They would much rather receive $30 payments each month than nothing at all. Contact your creditors and explain your situation to them.

Get a Secured Credit Card

Lost your credit card because of late payments? Never had one? An easy way to boost your credit score is to get a secured credit card. These cards are great for reestablishing your credit because your payments are reported to major consumer reporting agencies. All you have to do is submit a deposit that is fully refundable. If you make timely payments, your credit score will go up.

Don’t Let An Emergency Kill Your Score

Cash emergencies are the single item that trips most people up as they try to improve their credit. If an emergency does come up, think about borrowing the money rather than being late on a payment.  If you own a car with a clear title, auto title loans are a great way to do it. An auto title loan has lower interest rates, gives to longer to pay it back, and is easier to get than any other loan for someone whose credit is on the mend. If you are in the Florida area, talk to Embassy Loans, the leader in auto title loans.  They can give you some fast help to save that credit score.