153 - Understanding Credit Scores and Reports

DebtMatters Podcast

Whether you are applying for a new cell phone plan or a mortgage, your potential creditors want to understand your financial history and your ability to repay debt. Your credit score and report will help them decide whether they want to do business with you. But most people don’t know a lot about their credit report and credit score. Today’s podcast looks at the difference between the two and how you can improve your score. Licensed Insolvency Trustee, Brenda Wood, also covers the following topics:

• Why you should be checking your credit report often
• The difference between a hard and soft credit hit
• What shows up on a credit report
• How scores are calculated and why they fluctuate
• What is a credit rating and where it appears
• Things you can do to improve your score

Licensed Insolvency Trustees are federally regulated and follow a strict code of ethics as well as government regulations. From budgeting to Bankruptcy, you can be assured of unbiased, non-judgemental advice.

About Brenda Wood

Brenda started in the insolvency industry in 1995 and earned her Licensed Insolvency Trustee designation in 2006. She has a long history of volunteering with the Canadian Association of Insolvency and Restructuring Professionals (CAIRP) where she has served as a member and presented at events. Brenda received the CAIRP Outstanding Volunteer Award in 2012 in recognition of her service.

Outside work, you’ll find Brenda at the ice rink, ball field or camping at one of the beautiful Nova Scotia campgrounds.

Additional Resources

• Allan Marshall & Associates Licensed Insolvency Trustee
• What Does Your Credit Report Say About You?
• Your Credit Score in Canada: What You Should Know