business-Is Selling Your Business the Best “Exit Plan”?

Posted by admin in BusinessMay 7th, 2011 | No Comments

My neighbor asked me, “Why would anyone sell a successful company?”. He could not understand why anyone would leave a business that was doing well. Of course successful companies get sold all the time.

So why do these business owners sell? The short answer is that most closely held businesses sell for human reasons, such as burn out, retirement, illness, partnership disputes, family issues or other personal reasons. Usually the business is fine but the human being running the business needs a change. To understand this better it is key to understand the other options for exiting a business.

Close the Business/Liquidation

Closing a business that is profitable never makes sense. Even if the assets are liquidated the price is likely to be pennies on the dollar versus selling the business as a going concern with employees, customers and a reputation that is intact. Not only does the business owner get the lowest value but the employees, vendors and customers are hurt by this type of exit.

Accident, Illness or Death

No one wants to exit their business this way, but many do. The loss of an owner not only creates tremendous issues for the family but also creates a leadership void in the business. Even the most competent management can struggle when a key business leader is lost to a serious accident, illness or death. No one plans for this type of exit but many end up exiting the business this way because they failed to create an alternate plan.

Succession

Succession by a family member or key employee has its benefits. They know the business, its product or service, employees, customers and vendors. Succession can be operationally successful for the exiting owner if they make sure the successor is carefully selected, qualified and groomed for the position. The owner must be careful not to make an emotional choice of a relative or favorite employee but instead choose the successor with the right skills to lead the company into the future. You are not seeking an “Employee” mentality but an “Owner” mentality. If that rare person can be found in the business who can make the transition to Owner, they often do not have the cash needed to purchase the business. They are also likely to want to pay less for the business as familiarity will blind them to many of the value drivers of the company. So although succession can be operationally successful it is rarely a financial success for the outgoing owner.

Sell

Closing or liquidating the business minimizes the value to the owner. Accident, illness or death forces the issue on the owner. Succession provided a very limited pool of options with limited financial reward.

Selling on the other hand allows the business owner to decide their ideal timing, maximize the value of the business they worked so hard to build, coordinate the use of the sale proceeds for financial planning and align their personal goals with the sale of a business. Selling the business allows the business owner to create a wealth event and often significant on-going passive income without having to run their business.

Whatever they are, human reasons are always pushing and pulling on a business owner. Burn out, stress, divorce, illness, partner disputes and limited growth capital are some of the human reasons that push owners out of the business. Retirement, enjoying life, relocating, a new business opportunity and passive income are some of the reasons that pull a business owner out. Whatever the motivation, the fundamental reason a business owner chooses a sale as their ideal exit plan is control. The business owner chooses to understand the value of their business and to proactively pursue the right buyer and the right price. By selling a business you choose to exit your business by choice, not by force.

The professional team at Sunbelt Midwest can help you confidentially sell or buy a business in Minneapolis, Milwaukee, Chicago, and surrounding areas. For more information check out our site at http://www.sunbeltmidwest.com.

business-Credit Card Services and Business Loans for the Small Business

Posted by admin in BusinessMay 5th, 2011 | No Comments

To achieve financial independence, experts encourage even currently employed individuals to consider entrepreneurship. Setting up your own business, no matter how small, is touted as one of the best ways toward building the foundation for wealth. Those who are concerned about having a safety net need not take the plunge recklessly. One can start setting up a small business even while employed.  

Of crucial use to small businesses are credit card services and small business loans. The entrepreneur needs to know how to avail of these tools and how to effectively wield them for maximum business growth.

Credit Card Services

A small business would do well to get reputable credit card services in order to prosper in the current business climate. Availing of credit card services will enable it to accept both credit card and debit card payments. This is true either for brick-and-mortar businesses or internet based online businesses. After all, most consumers nowadays routinely use credit cards or debit cards for payment purposes. It only makes good business sense to be well-equipped for the needs of credit card users and debit card users as well as for the needs of customers who pay in cash.

Merchant services provide credit card services covering a wide range of solutions for the processing of credit cards and debit cards as payment options. These credit card services include traditional terminal equipment at point of sale, where credit cards or debit cards are swiped. It also includes software and high speed IP solutions for both traditional commerce and e-commerce. Credit card and debit card payments can, therefore, be accepted in person or through the internet, by phone or by fax.     

Small Business Loans

Any business – whether a small start-up business, a medium-scaled one or a big business company – will be needing an infusion of additional capital sooner or later. Additional capital is always needed for expansion, additional inventory, additional manpower, new systems, new equipment or a new physical layout.

Capital is not always easy to come by, though. The original investors’ personal coffers may have been emptied by the earlier outlays. Prospective investors may not be keen on shelling out funds in times of crisis. Businesses, therefore, have no choice but to seek business loans.

Getting business loans is a difficult process. Even small business loans are not readily approved. Be prepared to present a lot of documentation and paperwork. For small business loans, the proprietor’s personal credit history is taken into account and related references need to be submitted. Of course, the company’s financial statements are just as important in proving the feasibility of the business and its capacity to repay its business loans. Having a detailed business plan will show your business strategies and projections, demonstrating your business acumen.

Unfortunately, even with all the requirements completed, applications for business loans – including small business loans – are, more often than not, disapproved.

Solutions

Some merchant services provide a comprehensive solution for the needs of small businesses in relation to credit card services and small business loans. The set up is elegantly simple. A small business need only avail of the company’s credit card services to be eligible for merchant cash advances. These cash advances are actually small business loans, except that there is no need to go through the complicated application process for business loans. Repayment is made very easy and worry-free, too. A certain small percentage is built into the credit card processing rates to take care of the advances. This way, repayment is actually done automatically in a very affordable manner and according to income flow.

Small business owners would, indeed, be wise to look into these timely business solutions.

debt consolidation-Use Debt Consolidation To Free Yourself From All Debts

Posted by admin in Debt ConsolidationMay 5th, 2011 | No Comments

Debt consolidation is the combination of all high interest rate debts into a single debt and it is done through negotiation and at a lower rate. The aim of this is to lower the interest rate or the payment. A payment is made for one loan instead of paying for several loans. When debt incurred by credit card is being settled through negotiation it is refer as debt workout. It could also be called debt management, debt settlement, and debt relief etc.

High cost of living can make you overstrain your finances by resorting to different loans. It may resolve the lingering financial burden at that moment, but it must be paid back sooner or later. The interest rate on each loan that you are expected to pay is highly-priced. It is not a thorn you have to put on head, but there are ways to triumph over the rising costs of debt through cheap debt consolidation loans.

Most of the creditors know that they will not be paid if a debtor bankrupt, instead of let go the loan, debt consolidation is considered for debt settlement because getting something little is better than getting nothing.
 
So many debts can lead to a very complicated cycle of uncontrollable finances that is hard to break. Cheap debt consolidation can be considered the best option to repay various pending loans like mortgage loan, credit card debts, educational loans, utility bills and unsecured loans.

 Cheap debt consolidation loans are a way to achieve a financial standing where one can once more claim to be free of debt. Debt can help you solve problems at that moment is taken but an overburden of debt will anticipate difficult times. Unpaid debts are signal of uncertain financial struggle. Regard it as burden and take ample steps for its elimination. Cheap debt consolidation loan is a way out of such financial troubles. It implies that they not only assure financial well being but will have curative effects on your general life as well.

You negotiate your different debts for a single cheap debt consolidation loan. Ensure that debt consolidation loans you want to take can reduce the cost for the various loans. The success of debt consolidation depends on the type of loans you are consolidating.  Credit card debts consolidation will always be cheaper as credit cards have high interest rates. Student loans debt consolidation would not be as beneficial as that of credit card loan because student loans already have lower interest rates.

 Cheap debt consolidation loans are of high benefit by getting you faster out of debt, it allows you to save money, it makes you to deal with single lender instead of numerous lenders, it reducing the interest rate, consolidating credit card and other bills, reducing monthly payment, turn multiple loans to a single payment and not to mention but the few.  The main aim of cheap debt consolidation loan is to reduce the cost of unsecured debts and to pay off the loans in a shorter time span.

Cheap debt consolidation loan is way to attain a financial status where one can again claim to be free of debt. An unpaid debt is an indication of unresolved financial problems. Take heed of it and take adequate steps for its elimination. A cheap debt consolidation loan is a way towards it. It implies that they are not only assuring financial well being, but will have restorative effects on your general life as well.

 Finding cheap debt consolidation loans rate can be achieved through collateralization. Collateral is being used as a security or guarantee to the loan lender in case of default.  Debtor’s collateral reduces lender risk. Collateral can be in form of real estate and any other valuable assets. Easy determination of real estate and vehicle can make them preferable as collateral. When you default once again it means that you may lose your assets.

Credit history is also another determinant of finding cheap debt consolidation loans. A good credit score can perform magic for someone who is looking for cheap interest rates for debt consolidation.  On the other hand, it does not mean that bad credit debt consolidation is not available at cheap rates. Lenders do recognize the fact that anybody seeking debt consolidation might be having credit struggle. Cheap debt consolidation loans are available for those with bad credit history.
 
It is advisable to get different quotes for debt consolidation loans from various loan lenders for the same collateral. This will enable you to compare and contrast. This single action will guide you in getting the best debt consolidation deal that will give value for your money. Debt consolidation is viewed as an affirmative effort across the globe. Get more information 

debt consolidation-Debt Consolidation – Doctor for Your Debt

Posted by admin in Debt ConsolidationMay 5th, 2011 | No Comments

Debt is like quicksand, it is easier to cope. Once the person is in the debt trap, it gets deeper and deeper. He then discovers that their life raft in the form of debt consolidation. Debt consolidation refers to the composition of a person to a manageable loan debts. In short we can say that debt consolidation offers help avoid bankruptcy. Stop interfering with outgoing calls from creditors for the payment of bills and outstanding debts. It also reduces the monthly payment, which in turn allows the person to save a certain amount of money. Debt consolidation is like a doctor to the problem of debt. And it offers the debtor a fresh start and also helps achieve aDebt is like quicksand, it is easier to cope. Once the person is in the debt trap, it gets deeper and deeper. He then discovers that their life raft in the form of debt consolidation.

Debt consolidation refers to the composition of a person to a manageable loan debts. In short we can say that debt consolidation offers help avoid bankruptcy. Stop interfering with outgoing calls from creditors for the payment of bills and outstanding debts. It also reduces the monthly payment, which in turn allows the person to save a certain amount of money.

Debt consolidation is like a doctor to the problem of debt. And it offers the debtor a fresh start and also helps achieve a healthier financial situation.

Any of the debt problems can be either personal debts or liabilities of the company, or credit card debts, you only need to use a debt management plan or program to get rid of debts. Before entering into any debt consolidation program of the subject should take professional advice of a consultant credit. Credit counselor listens and analyzes the problem. And then offers the best solution to your problem, or what program to use for debt management.

In essence, these programs debt management try to reduce your monthly payments to reduce or freeze interest on the loan. This in turn helps the person to eliminate debt within months.
A person can consolidate his debts in three ways: – loans debt consolidation, mortgage and debt consolidation remortgage debt consolidation. But there are also other ways to consolidate debt, such as individual voluntary arrangements (IVA). But they are considered bad credit for one person.

A consolidation loan debt can be described as the management of debt by consolidating them. It allows you to manage with the single lender rather than dealing with numerous creditors. On the other hand, while the debt consolidation mortgage to get a loan based on equity in the house and repay its creditors against debt. And can remortgage the debt described as the expansion of the mortgage. This reflects the mortgage, which usually negotiated to cover the increased loan amount.

Mentioned three ways to consolidate debts does not necessarily work for everyone. They are just one option for resolving the debt problem. And they are responsible for which way you choose to consolidate your debts. Borrowers must choose the option that best suits them, with respect to its financial situation. healthier financial situation. Any of the debt problems can be either personal debts or liabilities of the company, or credit card debts, you only need to use a debt management plan or program to get rid of debts. Before entering into any debt consolidation program of the subject should take professional advice of a consultant credit. Credit counselor listens and analyzes the problem. And then offers the best solution to your problem, or what program to use for debt management. In essence, these programs debt management try to reduce your monthly payments to reduce or freeze interest on the loan. This in turn helps the person to eliminate debt within months. A person can consolidate his debts in three ways: – loans debt consolidation, mortgage and debt consolidation remortgage debt consolidation. But there are also other ways to consolidate debt, such as individual voluntary arrangements (IVA). But they are considered bad credit for one person. A consolidation loan debt can be described as the management of debt by consolidating them. It allows you to manage with the single lender rather than dealing with numerous creditors. On the other hand, while the debt consolidation mortgage to get a loan based on equity in the house and repay its creditors against debt. And can remortgage the debt described as the expansion of the mortgage. This reflects the mortgage, which usually negotiated to cover the increased loan amount. Mentioned three ways to consolidate debts does not necessarily work for everyone. They are just one option for resolving the debt problem. And they are responsible for which way you choose to consolidate your debts. Borrowers must choose the option that best suits them, with respect to its financial situation.

debt consolidation-Do You Believe Any of These Top 10 Myths About Debt Consolidation?

Posted by admin in Debt ConsolidationMay 5th, 2011 | No Comments

Most people facing growing debt and limited resources have probably looked around for financial solutions and heard a little bit about debt consolidation. Debt consolidation is a great financial option to overcome overwhelming debt, but it is not right for everyone. But before you can figure out if it is right for you, you have to realize that some of what you may have thought about debt consolidation … is wrong.

Of all the financial plans available for people dealing with overwhelming debt, debt consolidation is probably the most valuable and the least understood. In fact, you may already believe some of these common myths about debt consolidation. Find out the truth!

Myth #1 Debt consolidation is the same or similar to debt management, debt settlement, and bankruptcy.

Truth Debt consolidation is nothing like those other programs. In truth, it is not so much a “program” (you can even do it on your own, if you know enough) but more of a strategic approach.

In debt consolidation, you lump all of your debts together and repackage them. Debt settlement and debt management typically involve dealing with a company or counselor and the object is to reduce the amount you owe. Bankruptcy is a legal proceeding that involves a date with a judge.

Myth #2 Debt consolidation reduces your debt.

Truth No, it doesn’t. If you owe a total of ,000 on several credit cards and loans and you consolidate that debt, you still owe ,000.

Debt consolidation does not re-negotiate, settle, write off, or reduce any of your debt. What possible advantage is re-organizing your debt like that?

If you have a lot of loans at high interest rates, repackaging those higher-interest debts into one larger loan at a lower rate reduces your interest and the amount you have to pay. This means you can either pay less a month or (even better) pay the same amount but get the debt paid off sooner.

Myth #3 Debt consolidation will hurt my credit score.

Truth Done properly, debt consolidation will not impact your credit score or credit report negatively. In fact, debt consolidation may even improve your credit score! That’s because you’ll be paying off a bunch of smaller loans and any time a loan is paid in full, that helps your credit score.

Myth #4 Debt consolidation requires getting help from an outside agency or a lawyer.

Truth While there are companies that specialize in debt consolidation programs, you do not have to use them to consolidate your debt.

Of course, if you want to consolidate your debt on your own, you have to know a bit about how to do it and what the options are. But it can definitely be a do-it-yourself project for people good with money (or who are willing to learn enough to get good with money).

Debt consolidation is also not necessarily visible to outsiders. Your bank, the credit bureau, and other parties may not even be aware that you have consolidated debt.

Myth #5 Debt consolidation is something for financial losers and lightweights, not for people who know how to manage money.

Truth This is the most far-out myth about debt consolidation. Debt consolidation is a principle that is used in business and by the super-wealthy all of the time. It is a way of organizing and structuring your debts in a way that is most advantageous to you.

Myth #6 Debt consolidation is just robbing Peter to pay Paul; you’re just getting more debt!

Truth Debt consolidation is indeed a way for you to pay off one debt by getting another debt. But not all debts are equal.

As an example, let’s say that you owe ,000 and the loan is set up so that you have to pay 22% interest. For example, let’s suppose that I go to my credit union and work out a deal to borrow ,000 at 12% interest. While both debts are still in the amount of ,000, the debt at 12% interest is a better deal for me. I won’t have to pay as much per month or, if I make the biggest payments I can, I can pay it off sooner.

Myth #7 Debt consolidation requires you to be a homeowner.

Truth There is a grain of truth to this, in that owning a home definitely offers an advantage to anyone who wants to consolidate debt. (It doesn’t matter if your home is paid for or not, but you do need some home equity.) However, you can consolidate debt without owning a home, too.

Myth #8 Debt consolidation will make it harder for me to get future loans.

Truth In most cases, it is unlikely that anyone but a forensic accountant could figure out that you consolidated your debt (unless you go through a debt consolidation companythat might leave a paper trail).

If you borrow money in one loan and then take out another, more advantageous loan to pay off the first one, you’re more likely to leave a paper trail of somebody who pays off debt responsibly. It is more likely to make you a desirable creditor.

Myth #9 People who consolidate debt just wind up digging themselves in deeper in debt!

Truth It is absolutely possible to consolidate your debt and then keep spending and get yourself in a big mess. That’s why you need good information and a plan to pay off your existing debt, manage your finances now, and start planning for your financial future.

There is no reason that debt consolidation cannot work to get you out of debt for good, but you have to have a plan.

Myth #10 Debt consolidation will allow me to write off some of my debts and it will stop bill collectors from calling.

Truth Let’s take these one at a time.

Unlike bankruptcy, debt consolidation will not allow you to write off any of your debtnot a penny of it. Whatever you owed as a debt before debt consolidation is the amount you’ll owe after debt consolidation.

The advantage is just that you structure it in a more favorable loan. You do not get existing debts cancelled or decreased! Now it’s true you can work that out in other debt management solutions (debt settlement lets you reduce debt, bankruptcy will let you write some debt off) but they come at a very high price. Both of these approaches will have a negative impact on your credit score, will make it hard for you to get future loans, and stay on your record for quite a while. Bankruptcy, in particular, is an extreme solution that involves an actual court proceeding and a judge who has the authority to make certain decisions about your financial situation (including forcing you to sell some items to pay off debts).

Debt consolidation can only stop bill collectors indirectly. Here’s how: let’s say you have six debts and you’re getting calls all of the time. If you consolidate your six debts into one large debt consolidation loan at more favorable terms, you’ll pay off all of those debts. Bye-bye, bill collectors!

However, if you don’t pay off your new debt consolidaiton loan on time, the bill collectors will start calling again.

debt consolidation-Credit Card Debt Consolidation: Finding The Right Program – Advantages And Disadvantages

Posted by admin in Debt ConsolidationMay 5th, 2011 | No Comments

You never know when and who would need help from a credit card debt consolidation program. Sometimes unexpected circumstances can lead to financial difficulties which in turn would lead you to consider debt consolidation. Some of these circumstances are loss of job, loss in business, death of an earning member and so on. If you are finding it hard to pay off your credit card loans, then it is wise to consider debt consolidation. This is much better than bankruptcy. This article will help you with steps in finding the right credit card debt consolidation program, make you aware of the advantages and disadvantages of debt consolidation so you can decide whether credit card debt consolidation is the best option for you or not.

Basics of Debt Consolidation

Debt Consolidation is a big loan that will pay off your credit card loans. There are several ways these debt consolidation programs work. The most popular way is to take one lump sum amount of money from you (the borrower) and distribute it to your credit card companies (the lenders). All your loans will be consolidated into one payment usually withdrawn directly from your bank on a fixed date every month. These programs make the card holders life easier.

As a general rule, if you have many credit cards from different companies with high interest rates, then debt consolidation can help you manage your debt with only one bill and much lower APRs. These debt consolidation companies negotiate a lower interest rate for you and this can save a lot of money in the long run. This will work out in your favor if you have credit cards with APRs of around 30% because the debt consolidation programs can reduce these interest rates to between 12% – 18%. These programs require a monthly administration fees, which is usually around and this will come off your savings. Remember if the admin fee does not come off your savings, then it is not a good idea to sign up for a debt consolidation program.

So it looks like everything about the credit card debt consolidation is positive. Well, it is not always the case. There are a few advantages and also disadvantages of debt consolidation programs. You have to find a balance between them. The fact is that credit card debt consolidation companies do help you in paying off your debt. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of these programs.

Advantages

1. Decreased payment amounts: The monthly payments will be less than what you were paying before debt consolidation because you are paying off the loan over a longer duration.

2. Simpler to manage: After you signup in the debt consolidation program, you will have a relief from reading your credit card statements, deciding how much to pay for each credit card and then making the payments one by one. Usually, the company will withdraw the money directly from the bank and you will not have to be concerned about late payments.

3. Decreased interest rates: This is one of the major advantages for many credit card owners. Some of the debt consolidation companies bring down the interest rates much lower than the current ones. This can save lots of money for you.

4. Debt Management tips: Many of the good debt consolidation give lots of free tips on managing your debt. They draw out a plan on debt management. These tips are invaluable. They even mail out booklets on debt management.

Disadvantages

1. Lower FICO scores: Many experts debate that debt consolidation does not have any effect on credit (FICO) scores the fact is that debt consolidation has a negative effect on the credit scores. Enrolling into debt consolidation will always be reflected in your credit history. Most credit repair companies mention that it is difficult to increase your credit score if you are currently working with a debt consolidation program. Your credit scores can be raised after you have paid off the loans and are not currently in any debt consolidation program. Even if you can remove one credit card from the debt consolidation program that can help you increase your credit scores.

2. Higher Payment: Since your payments are made over a longer duration of time i.e. in more number of the years, then you will end up paying more in the long run. One way to prevent this is – if your financial situation has improved, then you can pay off larger sum of money. Most of times there will be no penalty for paying off the debt sooner than the agreed number of months. Before enrolling in a credit card debt consolidation program, you can confirm if there is a penalty or not for paying off the debt sooner than the agreed number of months.

3. Credit cards inactivation: If a credit card payment is enrolled in a debt consolidation program, then that particular card account will be inactivated. i.e., that credit card can no longer be used.

4. Negative Impact on Future Loans: Once you have enrolled in a credit card debt consolidation program, this will remain in your credit history. So, all future loan requests (new credit card applications, home loan, car (automobile) loans etc.) will involve references to your debt consolidation. i.e., the lender will have knowledge about your participation in debt consolidation program. Some people are very uncomfortable about this but it is up to you decide. Your credit history is a private record and will be provided by credit score companies only on a need-to-know basis. If you apply for home loan, then the chances of getting rejected is higher and if you get accepted, then mortgage broker will ask for explanation. Again all these conversations are kept confidential.

So, the question is – when should you consider a credit card debt consolidation? If you are paying high interest rates around 30% on a credit card, you have many credit cards, you are unable to make payments or your are barely able to make just the minimum monthly payments, you are finding it difficult to manage all the payments etc., you must consider signing up for a credit card debt consolidation program. After reading through the advantages and disadvantages mentioned earlier, make decision about signing up or not signing up for credit card debt consolidation program.

How to find a good debt consolidation program / company?

Signing up with the right debt consolidation program is critical for saving money and successfully consolidating your debt. There are a good number of scams in the debt consolidation business so it is in your best interest to proceed cautiously to prevent being victim of a scam. Here are some very good sources of finding the right debt consolidation program.

1. References from friends and relatives: It is best to ask your trusted friends if they have any recommendations for reliable credit card debt consolidation program i.e., if they have enrolled in one of these or know of anyone who enrolled in one and is satisfied. As mentioned before, there are many scams and so with this option, you can feel safe. This should be your first option.

2. Television advertisements: Most of big and established companies run advertisements on TV. These are companies that have a lot of experience and have been successful with debt consolidation. But it is a wise thing to research the company. Look for their website and check for their standing in Better Business Bureau (BBB) and must have been in existence for a few years. Also, search http://ripoffreport.com website for this company – this website where victims of scams post their experiences.

3. Mails: When you are unable to payoff debt on time, you will receive mails from some companies that will offer help with debt consolidation. These companies have permission to access some of your basic information. The good thing here is that your fit their profile of enrollees and that is why you received a mail with their credit card debt consolidation services. As mentioned earlier, research these companies using the same methods described above.

4. Telemarketing phone calls: Typically, telemarketing phone calls that you get is because your debt situation is such that it fits the requirement of their enrollees. If you receive a phone call, remember to never enroll in the first phone call. Note down all the details of this company such as the websites, contact person and phone number to call. Research the company extensively as mentioned above.

5. Online Research: Research the internet for good credit card debt consolidation companies both non profit and profit companies. Once you create a list of possible companies, research the companies extensively. Talk to these companies until you are comfortable about enrolling with them.

For a few months or years, if you can handle the disadvantages of credit card debt consolidation programs, then enroll in a program. Debt consolidation can get you out of your current debt problems and save you a lot of money by lowering your interest rates but if you do not spend judiciously, then you will be back into the same debt problems and this cycle will never end. So the long term solution to debt problems is to change your spending habits and live slightly below your means. Remember you need to manage the money / debt and NOT let the money / debt manage you.

credit report-Getting Your Credit Report & Why It’s Important

Posted by admin in Credit ReportMay 5th, 2011 | No Comments

Few people realize how easy it is to get a copy of your credit report or how important it is for you to know what’s on your credit report. As part of the federal Fair Crediting Reporting Act (FCRA), each of the nationwide consumer reporting agencies is required to provide you with a free copy of your credit report once per year.

Be careful of many companies online advertising to give you a free credit report as many of them will have you enrolling in other things at the same time! If you go to

What’s On Your Credit Report?

Anything of importance that anyone may want to know about you can be found on your credit report. Personal information about you including name, aliases, Social Security number, current and past addresses, date of birth, current employer as well as previous employer. Most of this information is coming from applications you may have filled out in the past so it’s important to always be sure to fill out forms accurately.

Any credit you may have or have had in the past will be listed on your credit report including the date each account was opened or closed, high credit limit, monthly payment, balance and payment history for the past few years. It will also state the type of account it is (mortgage, installment loan) and if it is also under someone else’s name. If you’ve had any public records such as monetary judgments, bankruptcy, tax liens or even back child support, these things will all be listed right below your accounts.

Any inquiries that have been made into your credit report, whether by you or others will also be listed on the bottom of the credit report along with the date of the inquiry. When you apply for any credit, the company will request a copy of your credit report and their name is then added to the list of inquiries. Potential creditors frown on numerous inquiries in a short amount of time. Too many inquiries in a short amount of time can also affect your credit scores negatively.

Why It’s Important to See Your Credit Report

It’s very important to see your credit report at least once a year so you know what’s being reported about you and your financial history. There may be information on your credit report that’s inaccurate. It’s up to the bank or credit card company that reported the information to the credit reporting agency to correct any errors they’ve made, but they need to be made aware of them first.

Your credit report may not show all your accounts. Although most creditors report to the agencies, there are some that do not. Make sure that any accounts that are paid off are reported as paid. When you look over your credit report, start from the top and verify everything. One mistyped number in your Social Security number can result in someone else’s account being on your report. Errors are often found on credit reports within the family when there are “Jr.” and “Sr.” in the family.

Your credit report is used for more than just loans and credit card applications. Today potential landlords are requesting credit reports as well as cable and satellite providers and cell phone companies. So, know protect your credit and know what’s on your credit report!

www.annualcreditreport.com, you can get a copy of your credit report from Trans Union, Equifax or Experian, which are the three main credit reporting agencies. If you’ve been denied for any credit, you’re also entitled to a free copy of your credit report if you contact them within 60 days of the denial.

 

credit report-Taking A Closer Look On Your Credit Report

Posted by admin in Credit ReportMay 5th, 2011 | No Comments

Copyright (c) 2009 Suzy Vanstrusen

A credit report is a very important piece of document. Based on an individual’s credit report, a lender can either approve or disapprove your credit application. You can also get lower interest rates, higher credit limit, and better deals based on your credit score. Lenders often prefer applicants with high credit rating while those with low credit scores are often considered as high risk. What are some of the things that you should know about it? Why should you be interested to learn more about it?

What information does your credit report have?

There are four basic information included. These are your personal identification and employment history, your payment history, credit inquiries from lenders, and public information such as liens, foreclosures, court judgments and bankruptcies.

Who can access your credit report?

When you submit an application for a new credit or a new account, your prospective lender would check on your credit report to see whether your application can get approved or not. Aside from lenders, potential employers and landlords can also use your credit report to check on your background and reliability. Of course, government agencies can also check on an individual’s credit report as source of personal information.

Can you fix your credit report?

In cases wherein you are encountering debt problems or bad credit, there are ways to improve your credit score such as making negotiations to get new repayment terms. There are also credit repair companies that you can ask help from. However, beware of agencies promising instant “credit fix”. Always keep in mind that the negative information your report may have cannot be erased unless you make a positive step to cover or rebuild your credit. If the negative information are correct then the only way to fix them is to pay your debts.

A legitimate credit repair agency should help you find possible solutions to your debt problems, help you manage your finances better, budget your money, negotiate with creditors on your behalf and help you improve your credit gradually.

What information can you erase from a credit report?

If some information in your credit report are erroneous or incorrect, you can dispute these errors with your creditors and with the credit bureau issuing your report. In case of negative information or derogatory marks that has been in your report for 7 years or more , you can also request a credit bureau that these information be removed. Checking your credit report at least twice a year is a good way of making sure that everything is accurate and error-free. You can obtain a copy of your credit report from each of the three major credit reporting agencies- Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.

What is the National Consumer Law?

Under the National Consumer Law, creditors or lenders should not deny an individual the credit he deserves if his credit report shows that he is a qualified candidate. It is against the consumer law for lender to refuse applicants based on their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or any other discriminating factors.

business-Finding Alternatives to Small Business Loans

Posted by admin in BusinessMay 5th, 2011 | No Comments

In the midst of the global economic crisis, many small businesses are on the brink of closing down if not enough capital infusion is found. It is now even more difficult to get small business loans from banks, though. Ironically, the exact reasons why small businesses need such small business loans – the fact that business has slowed down and profitability has plummeted – are the same reasons why banks turn them down for loans.

Small businesses now have to be more resourceful in finding alternatives to small business loans.

Government Grants and Contracts Instead of Small Business Loans

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act signed by President Obama in February 2009 caused the pumping of billions of dollars for the revitalization of the economy. Because of it, there are plenty of government grants and contracts available to small businesses. These can be alternatives to small business loans.

But how can small businesses avail of the stimulus program?

The Association of Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (APTAC) has the responsibility for helping small businesses obtain and perform federal, state and local government contracts. It has Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (PTAC) throughout the country, ready to help small business owners to get registered and find opportunities in the area of government grants and contracts. Counselors assist small businesses in filling out bids, proposals and quotations.

The PTAC holds seminars teaching small business owners all the ins and outs of government legalese, including acronyms and registries. A one-day seminar with PTAC covers what small business owners may take months to learn on their own.

The PTAC then helps small businesses with Central Contractor Registration (CCR), a requirement for doing business with the federal government. This registration can be so complicated that some companies take two days to do it when the PTAC counselor can help them get through it in 15 minutes.

Local PTACs will be of help in acquiring state and municipal contracts.

Other resources that small business owners should consult include the Small Business Administration (SBA) which also coordinates with the APTAC; the General Services Administration (GSA) which acts as the government’s purchasing department and provides information on becoming an approved vendor; the Federal Business Opportunities website (fbo.gov) where federal contract opportunities currently available are posted; and the Small Business Innovation Research website (sbir.gov) where grant and funded research opportunities for small businesses are listed.

Cash Advances from Credit Card Services Instead of Small Business Loans

Another alternative to small business loans are cash advances from credit card services. This option is much easier than winning government grants and contracts.

Most small businesses are already availing of credit card services that enable them to accept payments by credit cards or debit cards. This is practically a requirement to doing business these days, with people hardly paying cash for goods and services. Many small business owners do not know that they could avail of cash advances from these credit card services, though, and that such advances can actually equal small business loans.

The amount that a small business can borrow is based on its average monthly income from credit card sales. This is so because the cash advance does not require collateral and future sales receivables from credit cards stand as the collateral. Payment will also be done through automatic deductions from those future credit card sales. There will be no set monthly amortizations. Instead, a certain percentage of the sales will be allotted as payment. The small business owner, therefore, need not worry over where to find cash for loan payments.

Cash advances from credit card services are the best bet of small business owners as alternatives to small business loans.

business-Steps in Setting-Up a Home-Based Business and Using Small Business Loans from Credit Card Services

Posted by admin in BusinessMay 5th, 2011 | No Comments

Setting up a home-based business may be a more cost-effective alternative to setting up a major company, but it may still drain the limited resources of a small business owner. To keep the business going, small business loans will definitely be necessary. These can be availed of through credit card services. This article will show you how.

First, you need to set up your home based business. Do your research on the type of business you want to establish. Find out what licensing and zoning requirements you need to meet and ensure that you meet them all. Do not attempt to cut corners here.

Get the services of an accountant, even if only on a consultancy basis, to help you set up your books and records correctly from the start. Ask for help in determining deductions so that you can plan on your business expenses. Establish a routine for keeping strict records of all income and expenses right from day one. Keep all business related receipts, invoices, client records, bank statements, bank deposit slips and canceled checks.

Being home-based, you need to set aside a particular place in your home just for your business. Make sure it can accommodate all the necessary equipment. Check that you have the appropriate electrical outlets and have them installed if needed to avoid overloading your system. Set up rules to keep the area insulated from household noise and disturbances.

Have a business phone installed that is separate from your residential line. Avoid having your children answer the business line. Install an answering machine to take calls when you are out or occupied.

Get a post office box so that you can use that address in your official stationery and other documents, keeping your business profile professional. Hold client meetings in rented conference rooms or set business meetings in good restaurants.

One of the most important steps in setting up your home-based business is to acquire credit card services that will enable you to accept credit card payments and debit card payments. These credit card services provide all the necessary software and hardware for you to be able to process payments in person, online or by phone. This step alone already expands the customer base that you can access.

Credit card services will also serve you well once your home-based business begins to feel the need for additional capital. When you need to get small business loans, you will not have to approach banks which are most likely not sympathetic to small home-based businesses.

The need for small business loans usually comes when the home-based business is already at least a year old. At such time, your home-based business would have created an average monthly credit card sales record with your credit card services company. You can refer to that when you approach your credit card services company for small business loans, sometimes called cash advances.

Credit card services do offer small business loans to their clients based on average monthly credit card sales, without the need for any collateral. The aforementioned average monthly credit card sales guarantee your company’s capability to pay the small business loans. Payments will be automatically deducted as a percentage of future credit card sales. This arrangement frees you from worrying about the amortization for your small business loans, too.

As soon as you pay up your small business loans completely, you are automatically eligible for new small business loans for as long as your home-based business is getting a good monthly average in credit card sales. With the help of credit card services, you can continue to expand and grow your home-based business.