Five Steps to Money Management Success

• Build Savings - Avoid being caught by surprise and having to rely on payday loans, title loans or high interest rates on credit cards to reduce your debt.
• Pay Bills on Time - This is one of the most effective ways to build a positive credit history.
• Pay More Than the Minimum Payment – Even paying a little bit more than the minimum payment on your credit card bills can greatly reduce the amount you pay in interest and the time required to pay it off.
• Comparison Shop – When you are looking to open up credit or shopping for merchandise, do your homework before you sign the bottom line or make the purchase. Taking the time beforehand, can save you money in the end.
• Obtain a Copy of your Free Annual Credit Report – You are entitled to a free copy of your credit report from each of the three credit agencies once a year by going to www.annualcreditreport.com. It is important to know what is on your credit report, and learn ways to improve your score if needed. Your report determines what credit you will get and how much interest you will pay for it. Insurance, employment, housing and deposits for services are also tied to your credit score.