Should You Pay for Credit Repair Services? Probably Not.
A large credit card shopping spree is often followed by a large balance the following month. And you may be wondering how you’re even going to keep up with the minimum payments. This kind of uncertainty can set the stage for bad decisions. Before you scramble and sign-up for credit repair services, take a deep breath and realize you have more control than you think.
Risk vs. Reward: Is credit repair worth the cost?
It’s important to remember that some credit repair services are legitimate businesses, able to follow through on their claims. Unfortunately, the reputable companies reside in a corporate landscape littered with scam artists and opportunists.
If you’re willing to devote enough time and research, it’s possible to separate the upstanding services from the scams, but as NerdWallet columnist Liz Weston points out, “If you’re able to do that kind of research, then you can certainly figure out credit repair and do it yourself.”
While the trustworthy credit repair companies aren’t necessarily too good to be true, there’s a good chance they’re too costly to be worth it. When you consider that many of these services charge monthly fees ranging from $30-$100, the boost in your credit rating may not justify the ongoing expense.
Facing credit challenges? Your credit union can help.Â
Good credit isn’t the result of tricks and trade secrets. It’s established by applying solid financial habits over time. The same holds true for credit repair. While there may be some additional steps required to clean up your credit report, rebuilding good credit requires a consistent commitment to responsible money management.
Secured Advantage Federal Credit Union exists to ensure the financial success of our members. Educating people on proper credit management is part of that mission. If you’re drowning in debt and struggling to regain your financial footing, we could be the lifeline you’re looking for. Discussing your current challenges can be the first step toward putting those struggles behind you.
Repairing damaged credit is no walk in the park. But with a little hard work and dedication and the guidance of your credit union’s financial professionals, you can be on the way to reclaiming the good credit you deserve.
Ready to get started? Stop into our Simpsonville in South Carolina, our Iowa Park office in Texas, or give us a call at 800-468-5153.
