How’s your credit?

If you’re planning to borrow money to buy a car or you’re considering a lease, you’ll need a strong credit score to qualify for the best rates. It’s a good idea to check your credit history at least six months before a major purchase by requesting a free credit report at www.annualcreditreport.com. It might also be a good idea to purchase your credit score from one of the three credit reporting agencies listed on that site or from www.myfico.com. Then you’ll know what potential lenders see — and perhaps be able to resolve any problems before they hurt your ability to qualify for the loan.

YourMoneyCounts®

Looking for additional information about personal finance?

You can return to the YourMoneyCounts® home page for easy-to-use consumer resources. To access our tools, calculators, glossary, quizzes, articles, and FAQs, just click here.

This content is provided as educational material only and is not intended to solicit you for any product or service. These materials are not a recommendation by HSBC for any product, service or financial strategy. The suggestions and recommendations contained within are general in nature, and may or may not apply to your particular circumstances. Securities, annuity and insurance products are not FDIC insured or insured by any federal government agency of the United States; subject to investment risk, including possible loss of principal invested. All decisions regarding the tax implications of your investment(s) should be made in connection with your independent tax advisor. Should you need further assistance, HSBC strongly recommends contacting an independent attorney, tax professional or financial consultant.