Frequently Asked Questions
At SmartCred Co., our mission is to empower individuals with knowledge about credit. What you don’t know can impact your financial future, so we’re here to help you understand your credit and improve it. If you don’t see your question answered here, feel free to reach out to one of our specialists—they’ll be happy to assist you!
What are the costs of your services?
The pricing details for each of our programs can be found on the Programs page. Our pricing varies based on the level of service you need. We offer plans for individuals and entities. Contact us to learn more about our pricing structure.
Is it possible to repair my credit on my own?
Yes, you have the right to work on your credit independently. However, our expertise and strategic approach can help you achieve faster and more effective results. With SmartCred Co., you’ll also have access to an online portal to track progress and receive a detailed credit analysis.
Can I apply for new credit while working with SmartCred Co.?
Yes, you can still apply for credit, but keep in mind that new credit applications may result in hard inquiries, which could temporarily impact your credit score.
What are the legal ways to repair bad credit?
Consumers have the legal right to dispute any inaccurate, outdated, or unverifiable information on their credit reports. Laws such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), Fair Credit Billing Act (FCBA), and Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) provide protection and allow you to challenge incorrect credit report entries.
Can items that have been removed from my credit report reappear later?
In some cases, a previously deleted negative item can be re-verified and added back to your report. If this happens, credit bureaus are required by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) to notify you before the item is re-reported.
Do I need to continue paying my bills while repairing my credit?
Yes, maintaining on-time payments is essential. If new negative marks appear on your credit report, it can counteract the progress we’re making.
Will paying my bills improve my credit score?
Yes, making on-time payments consistently is one of the biggest factors in building and maintaining a strong credit score. This applies to credit cards, loans, and other recurring financial obligations.
Do you just send a ton of letters out and hope the creditors don't respond in time?
No, that’s not our approach. Credit bureaus and creditors handle millions of disputes every month, and generic challenges are often ignored. We craft personalized and strategic disputes to maximize your chances of success. Our proven process is one of the reasons we’re a leader in credit restoration.
How long will a bankruptcy remain on my credit report?
Bankruptcies typically stay on a credit report for 7 to 10 years, depending on the type of bankruptcy filed.
How long does a charge-off stay on a credit report?
Charge-offs can remain on your credit report for up to seven years from the date of the first missed payment that led to the default. However, there are ways to address and potentially remove them sooner.
What happens when a judgment is issued against me?
A judgment allows a creditor to legally collect what is owed, potentially through wage garnishment, bank levies, or other means. Understanding your options can help you minimize its impact on your financial future.
Can incorrect late payments be removed from my credit report?
Our team can review your credit reports and help identify strategies to dispute or remove inaccurate late payment records.
Is there a way to remove a repossession from my credit report?
Yes, there are two primary ways to handle a repossession: Disputing inaccuracies related to the repossession. Negotiating with the creditor to have it removed in exchange for payment or settlement.
Can a bill in collections be negotiated or removed?
Yes, you may be able to negotiate with the creditor or collection agency for a "pay-for-delete" agreement or request a goodwill removal under the right circumstances.
Do you assist with removing hard inquiries from credit reports?
Yes, our specialists can assess your credit reports and determine which inquiries may be eligible for removal, especially if they were unauthorized or inaccurately reported.
Can a foreclosure be taken off my credit report?
In certain cases, foreclosures may be removed if they were reported inaccurately or if other conditions apply. Our specialists can help you explore your options.
Who is SmartCred Co. and what do you specialize in?
SmartCred Co. is a trusted leader in credit enhancement, dispute processing, business credit solutions, and credit analysis. We work with individuals and businesses to help them take control of their credit and unlock financial opportunities.