TIPS

• Review bank account statements and credit card bills closely. Dispute unauthorized purchases within 60 days. Keep receipts and match them against statements.
• Don’t lend your credit, charge or debit card to anyone. You can be held responsible for any purchases made.
• Pay more than the minimum monthly payment; even a few dollars more helps. Making minimum payments means it will take longer to pay off your balance and will increase the amount of interest you pay.
• Pay on time, since late payments can raise your interest rate and have a negative effect on your credit history.
• A damaged credit history can affect your life. It can make it difficult to get a loan, apartment or even a job.