When it comes to getting anything from loans and credit cards through to mortgages or car loans bad credit can throw a very large spanner in the works. This can make your future more difficult in a number of ways, which is why it is important to try and get back on track by improving your credit rating and status. However, this can be quite a long, drawn out process so you also need to learn how to get by with a bad credit history in the meantime.

4 tips for getting by with damaged credit

While anyone with damaged credit should make every attempt to start repairing their credit, you will also need to learn how to get by while this process takes place. Some tips that could help you along include:

  • Budget effectively: The last thing you want to do when you have bad credit is get yourself into an even worse financial mess by overspending. So, rein in your spending and make sure you budget carefully so that you are not spending money frivolously on unnecessary purchases.

  • Avoid making credit applications that will be turned down: You may find that you need to get some sort of credit even when your credit rating is damaged. For instance, you may need to buy a car for work or family purposes. Don’t risk applying to lenders that are going to turn you down, as this will further damage your credit. Instead, look for specialist lenders and companies that cater for those with damaged credit.

  • Get a quick cash loan: Many companies that offer quick cash loans do not need to run a credit check. So if you are having problems getting finance, this could be a suitable solution that can help you out on a short term basis.

  • Get a specialist credit card: In order to help speed up the repair of your credit, look for a specialist credit card for those with damaged credit. You can then use this regularly and repay it in full each month in a bid to boost your credit score. However, don’t be tempted to use this to simply add to your existing debt – use it sensibly for day to day purchases and then repay it in full each month so you do not fall into further debt.

  • Try and put money aside: When you have damaged credit, you could find yourself getting into a financial scrape if you experience an unexpected financial emergency such as repairs or medical costs. You should therefore try and put a little money aside each month so you have an emergency fund available, as otherwise you could find your options very limited if and when you need emergency cash.

Learning to live with damaged credit can be a challenge, but following the tips above will make it a little easier while you work on repairing your credit.