Whether you are looking to rent or buy a home or even obtain insurance, you may be subject to a credit check by the lender or insurer. Banks and potential landlords, credit card companies and more all want to have a general feel for the applicants past credit history. 

- Adverse Action Notice - Learn about the Adverse Action Notice and how the landlord should use it.

- Bad Credit - What is "bad credit". Credit Scores are the key to life today. Right or wrong - the smallest "missed" payment can have an impact on your credit score and the rate you may pay on your next car or home or ability to obtain insurance or even a job. Does the credit score get abused? Yes.

- Bankruptcy - Guides to the Bankruptcy process for individuals and business. Learn more about Chapter 7, 11, 13 bankruptcy and the new laws that restrict the use.

- Credit Reports - see above. From the notorious Credit Report your life flashes before your eyes. Here's a hint. Actually, a few hints.

1. Avoid Credit Cards at all times. Not even in an emergency - if you can avoid it, do so. As the older generation would say - if you don't have the cash for it - then don't get it. Get it when you CAN afford it.

2. If you do have a balance on your credit card - at LEAST pay the minimum balance on it. That way, you avoid LATE FEES and A DAMAGED CREDIT REPORT. Even if it was $13.00 to Discover card (like I did) and you didn't think you owe it  - pay it THEN argue for it back.

- Credit Glossary - learn the terms used on credit reports or when you borrow

- The Landlord Guide to The Fair Credit Reporting Act  Landlord's guide to credit reports. Also see Tenant Screening

- Fair Credit Act - Guide to the laws that protect consumer's credit reports and use/abuse.

- Mortgage Center - Learn about mortgages - Fixed Rate, Home Equity and more. Don't get over extended. 

- Search RentLaw.com - search our files or the web. Search for terms like "tenant screening" or "bad credit" or "credit laws" as examples.

- Tenant Screening Guide - more information on the Tenant Screening Process and reason to do so.  
Landlords see TenantFacts.com  - RentLaw.com Tenant Screening Service.