Tradelines have lately become the center of many conversations by people who want to raise their credit scores. However, with popularity comes misinformation.
In this blog post, we will discuss what tradelines are and debunk six common myths associated with buying them. By the end of this article, you will get some understanding regarding how tradelines function and if they are a good fit for you.
Myth 1: Tradelines are Only for Users with Bad Credit
Although poor credit holders are the ones who frequently boost their credit scores by using cheap tradelines, these can also be helpful to those with an average or good credit.
For example, anyone with medium credit that wants to qualify for a mortgage or loan at favorable terms can benefit from a tradeline that can boost their score and hence obtain a better rate. It’s a flexible instrument that caters to various credits.
Myth 2: A Quick Fix for Your Credit Score
Although tradelines purchases are known to positively affect your credit score, they’re not a quick fix. The age of the tradeline, its credit limit and current credit profile determine how much of an improvement it provides.
Though they can give you a short-term boost, tradelines will never be a replacement for long term strategies that build good credit such as debt pay offs, low credit card balances and keeping up on timely payments.
Myth 3: All Tradelines Are Created Equal
Different tradelines do not bring about similar advantages. The age of the trade line as well as its credit limit aare the major determinants of its effectiveness. Older tradelines with higher credit limits generally have a more positive impact on your credit score.
Additionally, the history of payment by the account holder also matters significantly. A tradeline from a well-kept account will help more compared to one with missed payments or high balances.
Myth 4: You Can Use Tradelines Indefinitely
Another common misconception is that you can remain an authorized user on a tradeline indefinitely. Typically, tradelines are rented for a short period, often between 60 to 90 days.
Once this period ends, you’re removed as an authorized user. The positive effects on your credit score may diminish over time after the tradeline is removed, especially if there are no other strong credit-building activities in place.
Myth 5: It is Illegal to Buy Tradelines
The most widespread myth is that purchasing tradeline is illegal. In fact, buying tradelines is legal as long as your agreement with the account holder is transparent and ethical. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) allows authorized users to be reported on credit reports.
However, it’s essential to deal with trustworthy firms that adhere to legal practices in order not to fall prey to possible scams or fraudulent businesses.
Myth 6: Buying Tradelines Is a Definite Solution
Besides, buying a tradeline doesn’t mean that all your credit problems are automatically solved. Your score is influenced by many things and one of them is tradelines.
Also, how you pay your bills on time, the amount of money you owe creditors relative to your total borrowing capacity and the mixture of different types of loans in your name can also play critical roles. Relying only on tradelines while ignoring other areas will significantly hinder your success.
