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Does Debt Relief Hurt Your Credit?

Credit Corp

Key Takeaways: Credit utilization makes up 30% of your credit score. Having good credit can help you secure better loans. How Debt Relief Programs Affect Credit Your credit utilization rate makes up 30% (roughly one-third) of your overall credit score. Each debt relief option has its pros and cons.

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Determining Your Debt-to-Income Ratio

Debt Guru

Use the same formula that lenders rely on when evaluating a loan application. The result is a percentage that determines your creditworthiness – in short, if lenders believe you’ll be able to repay the loan. Keep in mind that your ratio typically excludes mortgage and student loans.

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8 Ways to Consolidate Credit Card Debt 

Credit Corp

Keeping track of multiple credit card bills can be difficult and potentially cause you to fall behind on payments or forget them altogether. Since payment history is the most important factor that influences your creditworthiness, not making payments on time can damage your credit score.