Unfortunately, bad credit often happens to good people. Even though a less than desirable credit rating is costly and involves several factors, it is not impossible to overcome.

For many people, the first step to improving your credit rating is knowing what it is, and understanding how it became negative in the first place. The Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act of 2003 entitles you to a free credit report from each major credit bureau once a year. You can order your credit report online from annualcreditreport.com. For the most detailed explanations on your FICO scores, go to the credit education area at myfico.com.

Most negative information can appear in your credit report for seven years. This includes lawsuits, judgments against you, paid tax liens, accounts sent to collection, criminal records, late payments, and overdue child support. Bankruptcies can stay in your credit report for up to ten years. Read More »

Sound Advice from Scott Coe, CoastHills Community Foundation Chair

At CoastHills, our vision is “Making a Difference in our Neighbors’ Lives.” This commitment expands beyond the 61,000 members of our Credit Union.  It speaks to being difference makers in all of the great communities that make up the Central Coast.  The employees and volunteer board members that make up our staff volunteered more than 4,000 hours of community service last year, and are on pace to exceed that amount in 2011.

Not only does community service provide the foundation for countless organizations, it also provides many benefits for those who do the volunteering.

Healthy

Experts will tell you that when you focus on someone other than yourself, it can be essential in reducing tension. Plus, the satisfaction of providing a helping hand and the joy that comes from the physical nature of volunteering can help strengthen your immune system and increase your overall health. Read More »

Sound Advice from Jeff York

Whether you need a bigger car, a more reliable car or a more fuel-efficient car, now could be a great time to get into the car buying mode. But before you venture onto any vehicle buying web sites or set foot on a sales lot, follow these easy tips to help make the best decision.

Tip 1: Determine how much you can afford.

This seems logical, but the smell of a new car under the bright lights can cloud your budget judgment and it is all too easy to overspend. The “gotta have” feeling can be overwhelming. Affordability is more than just payment. You have to consider the cost of fuel, insurance and maintenance.

Tip 2: Shop for the best rate before you buy.

Most of us need to borrow money to buy a vehicle. If you are one of us, be sure to locate for the best loan rate before you begin your new vehicle quest. CoastHills will “pre-approve” you for a specific rate and loan amount without any obligation. That way you will know exactly what you can afford, and you won’t waste time and energy shopping for something out of your affordability range. Read More »