by: Michael Saunders

You see the advertisements in newspapers, on TV, and on the Internet. You hear them on the radio. You get fliers in the mail. You may even get calls from telemarketers offering credit repair services. They all make the same claims:

* “Credit problems? No problem!”

* “We can erase your bad credit — 100% guaranteed.”

* “Create a new credit identity — legally.”

* “We can remove bankruptcies, judgments, liens, and bad loans from your credit file forever!”

Do yourself a favor and save some money, too. Don’t believe these promises. Only time, a conscious effort, and a personal debt repayment plan will improve your credit report.

In order to save money, budget for the unknown, and keep from going into debt, you'll have a very difficult time knowing what to estimate for these expenses if you don't keep good records. Record-keeping may be one of duller ways to spend a rainy Saturday, but it really pays big dividends when you need quick access to important financial information.

Personally speaking, I'm pleased to be able to say that I can find the receipt for any purchase - no matter how small - for the last year and bigger ones for much longer. This practice may not be the most of fun of activities, but I am organized. Having a good system that works for you for keeping records such as policies, receipts, and such can save time, money, and frustration.

How can you accomplish this feat? I'll tell you: Any way you want. A number of perfectly good record-keeping methods and products are available, so pick one you like - or choose parts of various ones and put them together. Here are a few guidelines to offer:

1. Keep all your stuff in the same place or general area, such as a desk, cabinet, or closet.

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Your Credit Report and the Importance Of Keeping Good Financial Records
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