As lenders become more cautious in giving out loans to prospective borrowers, credit reports are now useful more than ever.

A credit report lists down your history of credit accounts and your payment activities over the years. A good credit report shows the creditworthiness of a person. This spells favour inclining towards gaining credit through loans and mortgages. A bad credit standing would mean, of course, poor credit report that can surely lead to a series of loan rejections. Here is basically how the credit report works and ways to improve it:

If you are above 18 years old and have obtained loans through personal or credit card loans, aside from student loans, this automatically enlists you in credit reports. As you get loan offers, it only means that lenders have done a background check of your credit report and decided to offer you loans.

Aside from your repayment history, a credit report also contains helpful information for lenders to assess your eligibility to borrow and pay. Data include court information for non-payment and bankruptcies.

Lenders will also verify your current address as a measure against fraud by whittling electoral roll.
Lenders can also verify your credibility by contacting your associates in your joint accounts with other people in mortgage and loan agreements.

Lenders also contribute information to your credit report, but majority will only give details of missed payments.

If you want to, you can also let lenders see your credit report. Credit scores change as your financial situation changes. You gain a point whenever you pay on time and a deduction when you miss to pay.

Check your credit report from time to time, so you can see your financial progress that will allow you to up your credit scores more. It is important to view your credit report first if you want to apply for new credit. New credit accounts are not merely mortgages or credit cards but also credit lines for utility bills and catalogue accounts.

Regularly monitor your credit report to protect yourself from identity theft. With the advent of technology, it is the most common crime nowadays. Credit shoved on you does not mean you have to grab it instantly. Do not try to improve your credit history by constantly availing of any loans. You can improve your credit report by simply meeting your financial obligations on time.

In cases of payment default due to emergency situations, contact your credit reference agency; explain the situation, and give proof. They will reflect your explanation in your credit report and lenders will be able to see it, too.

Alex Crothers of Mortgage Snout offers consumer advice on the importance of good credit rating when applying for credit and loans.

By Alex B Crothers