Here’s How You Can Keep a Good Credit Score Even During COVID-19

It is no secret that the recent COVID -19 pandemic has brought about heaps of uncertainty in our lives. The lockdown that followed managed to put a huge dent in our financial plans as well. The cherry on top was the millions of people who lost their jobs due to this unforeseen crisis.

Unsplash | It is possible to maintain a healthy credit score even during COVID-19

In these unprecedented times, to make sure that your credit score remains healthy, it is firstly important to understand how credit scoring works. Follow this article to find out how you can maintain a good credit score even during this crisis.

Know Your Credit Score Inside And Out

First of all, you must know your credit score and credit history at all times. Once you have practiced financial awareness adequately, you will be able to take immediate steps for remedy if your score runs low.

Your credit score depends on the frequency with which you can repay your debt. Most commonly, a great credit score is 750 and above. This helps you avail loans easily, as well as a credit line. Hence, it is important to keep an eye on your score so that you can work on regularizing your payments if it falls below 750.

Unsplash | Keep tabs on all your credit-related activity

Check Your Credit Report Frequently

This tip is especially important when your income is irregular or uncertain. So, make sure to check your credit scores frequently. Primarily, four credit conglomerates generate all credit reports around the world. These include Experian, TransUnion CIBIL, CRIF High Mark, and Equifax. Banks and NBFCs are responsible for providing data to these companies, which then generate your credit scores. This data contains information like your financial history and payment records.

As stated beforehand, your credit score defines your ability to repay your debt. It also defines your creditworthiness in case you apply for loans. If your credit score is low, lenders will mostly hesitate to give you loans in the future.

Pay Off Your Debt

Credit card debt comes with a lot of interest. In fact, credit card interests are the highest in the market. Hence, we cannot stress enough how important it is to pay off your full debt.

In case you are struggling financially, try to pay at least the minimum amount needed. This will ensure that your account remains in standing position. Moreover, by doing this, you will also be able to avoid additional late fees, save money, and ensure that your credit score remains high.

Unsplash | Don’t withdraw cash using your credit card

Avoid Using Your Credit Card To Get Cash

Even though credit cards offer high rewards for withdrawing cash, this is an option that you must avoid at all costs. Many hidden charges are involved in this, including late payment fees, cash advance fees, and other financial burdens. All of this is added to your withdrawal amount. Withdrawing cash from your credit card is essentially a debt trap, with high-interest rates, which cause your credit score to decline drastically.