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Don't hesitate to call Attorney Poriss at 860-593-1758 with any questions not answered here.
Q. I want to check my credit score but I'm afraid it will hurt my score.
A. That is a myth! Consumers may check their own credit reports and scores without hurting their credit scores. It is when third parties check your credit -- especially stores that offer their own credit cards -- will it cause a reduction in your credit score. The more applications for revolving credit you make, the more times a third party sees your credit, and your score will go down. But you may-- and should!-- check your own credit to maintain good credit health. Got to my Consumer Resources page for a link to get your credit scores for free.
Q. Do I get a free credit report?
A. Yes. Once per year you may obtain a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus by going to www.annualcreditreport.com or by calling 1-877-322-8228.
Q. I don't live in Connecticut but I think I need a lawyer like you. Who do you recommend?
A. I would recommend any lawyer who is a member of the National Association of Consumer Advocates. Visit their web site at www.naca.net to find an attorney in your area.
Q. I think I should file bankruptcy. Can you help me with that?
A. I am not a bankruptcy attorney. Sometimes people feel the only way to stop debt collectors from calling is to file bankruptcy. This is not true, and if you are receiving calls from debt collectors please contact me at 860-593-1758. For a bankruptcy attorney in your area, I would recommend a member of the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys. Visit their web site at www.nacba.com.
Q. Will a secured credit card help me build up my credit?
A. I don't recommend borrowing more money (i.e. using a credit card) in order to improve credit. The problem with pre-paid or "secured" credit cards is the fees are often 50% or more of the available credit, so you end up being over the credit limit very quickly, which can then HURT your credit. If you wish to build credit, develop a relationship with a credit union (most have open membership policies and opening a small savings account there gives you access to all their great services). Then apply for that credit union's low-limit and low-interest credit card. There are no "tricks" to improving credit; your credit score improves over time, as negative information becomes older and ages off your reports, your scores will rise. The fastest way to improve your credit score without opening a new account is to carefully review your credit reports and call me at 860-593-1758 about correcting any errors that may be dragging your score down.
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