New Year Empowering Credit Checklist

Start the year strong by taking control of your credit and financial future! Follow this step-by-step checklist to set yourself up for success:

 Review Your Credit Reports

•  📄 Get free copies of your credit reports.  Get Your Credit Score & Free Credit Report Now

•  🔍 Check for errors, outdated information, or inaccuracies.

•  🖊 Note any items that need to be disputed or updated.

 Know Your Credit Score

•  📊 Use a trusted service to check your current credit score. 

•  🎯 Set a goal for your credit score improvement by the end of the year.

 Dispute Errors

•  📨 Write to credit bureaus about inaccuracies on your credit report.

•  ✅ Track your disputes and follow up on resolutions.

 Pay Bills on Time

•  ⏰ Set up auto-pay or calendar reminders to avoid late payments.

•  📅 Make sure payments are withdrawn from your bank.

 Reduce Credit Card Balances

•  💳 Aim to keep balances below 10% of your credit limit.

•  💸 Focus on paying off high-interest cards first, then snowball payments to others.

Leverage Credit Tools

•  🔐 Consider a secured credit card if rebuilding credit.

•  🛠 Use tools like credit builder loans to establish or strengthen your credit history.

 Negotiate with Creditors

•  💬 Call lenders to ask for lower interest rates or better terms.

•  📝 Request payment plans if you're struggling to meet obligations.

Protect Your Identity

•  🔒 Sign up for identity theft protection services. IDShield | LegalShield Associate

•  📫 Opt out of unsolicited credit offers at OptOutPrescreen.com.

•  🔑 Use strong passwords for online accounts and monitor for suspicious activity.

 Create a Credit Improvement Plan

•  🗓 Break the year into quarterly goals (e.g., reducing balances, improving scores).

•  📈 Track your progress monthly to stay motivated.

Celebrate Credit Wins

•  🎉 Acknowledge milestones like paying off a credit card or resolving a dispute.

•  ✨ Reward yourself with something budget-friendly to stay encouraged.

 Empower Yourself with Knowledge

•  📚 Take a course on credit or financial wellness. Empower Your Credit - Grow an Abundant Relationship Your Credit Score

•  🎧 Listen to podcasts or read books about credit and personal finance.

•  🖥 Follow trusted credit experts (like me, Jeanne Kelly!) for ongoing tips. Instagram (@creditjeanne)

Make 2025 the year you take charge of your credit and unlock the financial opportunities you deserve. Remember, credit is not just about numbers; it's about creating a foundation for your dreams! 🚀