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Will getting a secured credit card help?

Date: Fri, 09/21/2007 - 12:33

Submitted by debrag_25
on Fri, 09/21/2007 - 12:33

Posts: 220 Credits: [Donate]

Total Replies: 16


I tried looking up this information on the site by searching but so many posts came up that I thought I would ask the question again...

I have an account with Bank of America. They offer a secured credit card that I could open with a security deposit of $300. According to everything I've learned, a current credit account with excellent payment history will help me build my score. I'm wondering if this type of secured account will be benefit since I don't think I would qualify for a regular credit card at this point. Do they report to the credit agencies and if so - does a positive payment history with type of account carry the same weight as a regular credit card account?


Thanks :) I'm going to go for it. I do feel more comfortable working with BOA since that's where my checking is and also there is a branch right down the street so I can talk to someone face to face if there are questions. I've looked at some others just for curiousity and noticed lots of hidden charges, etc. that would really add up. The BOA one seems to be fine and like I said...I feel more comfortable working through a real bank rather than "Bob's Credit Card Warehouse Superstore For Those Who Want A Secured Credit Card" ;)


lrhall41

Submitted by debrag_25 on Fri, 09/21/2007 - 18:16

( Posts: 220 | Credits: )


Even though it's a secured card, be aware it's still a credit card. What I mean is, the only way to get out of debt is to not secure MORE debt.

My advice- only use this card once a month, for a small amount you KNOW you can pay off entirely when the bill comes; not just the minimum. Do this for a few months, and it will help your score rise.

DON'T use this card for a purchase that you can't afford NOW.

Good luck!


lrhall41

Submitted by anonymous on Wed, 09/26/2007 - 22:12

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Well i've been using a credit card and paying it off at the end of the month only to find out that it's not reflected on my credit report since i've been paying it off!! It still shows 0 balance like it's never been used!! Someone told me to leave a small balance on it, like 10 bux so it will show revolving credit. Not sure how accurate this is but i was wondering why it didnt' show up on my report.
Ang


lrhall41

Submitted by Ang on Thu, 09/27/2007 - 04:51

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Do you think it's just taking a little bit of time to show up on the credit report? I thought it took 1-3 months for something to show correct on your credit report? And isn't based on when the company submits their records to the credit reporting agency? I could be wrong, but it may explain it.
Good luck to you!


lrhall41

Submitted by Amanda Sullivan on Thu, 09/27/2007 - 18:32

( Posts: 172 | Credits: )


Ang the trick is to look at your credit report and see when their updates are coming in.Try to have a small balance when they report and then pay in full.It can be a royal pain in the butt but it does give us a little boost score wise as long as you do not go over 30% of your credit line for each card.


lrhall41

Submitted by cajunbulldog on Fri, 09/28/2007 - 05:23

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