“Please hold; you are caller 976, we will be with you, before the end of the business day”.

Sound familiar? If you’ve ever attempted to clear up any of your own Credit report disputes, than you should recognize that message. 

Permissible vs Predatory

So, what is the real scoop on Credit Repair companies? Are they legal? Efficient? Expensive? What most people honestly want to know; can I do it myself? The simple answer…yes. However, the process can be onerous, lengthy and highly frustrating. Bureau correction on one’s own, requires two things; time…and, time. Er, one other element…time. Get it?

Provided time is not on your agenda, then the issue becomes “who” can legally, and successfully handle this matter for you?

Frankly, there are Credit Repair Agencies out there, by the gazillions; but, not all are reputable. On the flip side, there are a few that can, and will handle your credit report with finesse; that’s the company you want to keep. How do you find these high moral, and skilled companies?

Research.

How to stay safe

In 1970, The Fair Credit Reporting Act was passed. With this regulation put in place; now, all information on your credit report, that can be proven inaccurate, or unverifiable, is to be removed from your bureau report.

So, how does this help with one’s research of legitimate “clean up companies” versus promissory predators? Here is how…because, in addition to the FCRA passing; In 1996, the Credit Repair Organizations Act (CROA) was signed into law.

This law prevents Credit Repair Agencies from…

• Make false claims about their services.
• Charge until they have completed the promised services.
• Perform any services until they have your signature on a written contract and have completed a three-day waiting period. During this time, you can cancel the contract without paying any fees.

Your contract must specify:

• The payment terms for services, including their total cost.
• A detailed description of the services to be performed.
• How long it will take to achieve the results.
• Any guarantees offered.
• Company’s name and business address.

Solo or Association?

Now, armed with this knowledge, you can check these requirements against any business, advertising credit repair. If they don’t line up; then your results, won’t add up!

Can you go it alone? Sure. Do you want to? Only you can answer that question. However, if you do opt to utilize a credit restoration service; you now, have the confidence to feel your financial investment is safe.

Solo or Association…when you improve your credit score; you also, improve the quality of your life.