To get a loan, you’ll need good credit, but you can’t build it if you don’t have a credit card, a loan, or any other form of credit history to begin with. It may seem hopeless, but you’re not alone—nearly everyone with a poor credit history has the same problem. You could take out a credit builder loan if you’re ready to improve your credit. But what exactly is a credit builder loan, and how might one help you raise your credit score?
Fortunately for you, we’re here to answer any queries you may have. We’ll walk you through the benefits of credit builder loans and point you in the direction of financial products that can help you build a strong credit history. When we’re finished, you’ll know how to get a credit score that you can be proud of.
What is the purpose of a credit builder loan, and how does it work?
In brief, a credit builder loan can assist you in gaining credit. Credit builder loans are for little amounts (typically less than $1,000) with short repayment periods. The majority of credit building loans have repayment lengths of 6 to 24 months.
Credit Builder Loans: What Are They and How Do They Work?
Regular loans do not work the same way as credit builder loans. When you take out a traditional personal loan, the lender deposits a predetermined amount of money into your bank account, which you can spend for a preapproved purpose—for example, buying a car or consolidating credit cards.
When you take out a credit builder loan, the funds are placed in a secured savings account or a certificate of deposit (CD), where they will remain until the loan is paid off. After you’ve made your final loan payment, you’ll have access to your funds. In addition, at least one of the three credit agencies will most likely receive a report from your lender.
Credit Builder Loans: What Are They and How Do They Work?
Credit builder loan funds, unlike conventional loan funds, are only released when you make your final loan payment, as we’ve already indicated. Lenders typically deposit funds into checking or savings accounts via wire transfer. Some lenders will also refund a percentage of the interest you’ve paid minus fees, but this isn’t always the case, so read the fine print before signing up for your loan.
You can pay off the debt early if you wish to. However, think twice before doing so because it will jeopardise your good payment history. If you pay off your loan early to avoid paying interest, you may still have to wait to take your money if it’s in a CD.
- The following fees are linked with credit builder loans:
- Administrative fees are fees that must be paid before a loan can be granted
- The annual percentage rate (APR) is a loan’s interest rate.
- If you make a late payment or fail to make a payment, you will be charged late fees.
Make sure you pay on time every month to get the finest possible payment history—and that you finish your loan term.
Is it Worth It to Take Out a Credit Builder Loan?
Many people find credit-building loans to be extremely beneficial. If you’re ready and able to set aside a monthly payment and wait for your loan money, you could benefit from a credit score rise at the conclusion of your loan term, assuming on-time payments and no other negative circumstances. Furthermore, you may be eligible for reduced interest rates, and as your credit score improves, you’ll be that much closer to being approved for a car loan or a mortgage.
What Is a Credit Builder Card and How Does It Work?
Credit builder cards are similar to credit builder loans in that they help you build your credit. They’re intended to assist new consumers in establishing credit as well as those trying to improve their credit scores. Cards that help you develop credit are frequently called credit builder cards.
Because those with thin or poor credit scores are deemed more risk than those with established solid credit, they have lower credit limits and higher APRs. By paying off your credit builder card in full each month, you can avoid incurring interest.
Other Options for Increasing Your Credit Score
The credit mix accounts for 10% of a person’s FICO score. Revolving credit accounts, such as credit cards and store cards, and instalment credit accounts, such as vehicle loans and personal loans, make up a solid credit mix. You can start putting together your credit list by:
- Adding yourself as an authorised user on someone else’s credit card
- Obtaining a cosigner for a car loan
- Obtaining a secured credit card or a shop card
Make payments early in each billing cycle to boost your credit score, keep your credit usage moderate, and avoid applying for too many financial items at once. Your credit score will increase over time, allowing you to upgrade to better credit cards and low-interest loans.
Locate the Most Appropriate Credit Builder Loan for You
Taking out a credit building loan could be a wise financial decision. The majority of credit building loans are for small amounts with short repayment terms, making them simple to manage. However, before making any decisions, consider your goals and budget to ensure that this is the correct step for you.