Get a credit card with a high limit, keep the balance low and use the credit card to establish a credit history or boost a low credit score. Remember — the more available credit on a credit card, the better.

A second mortgage is a type of loan which is secured against the same assets as the first mortgage (e.g. your house) but which is based on the equity accumulated within the property. Though difficult to qualify for a mortgage with bad credit, second mortgages may be the answer for some borrowers looking to improve their credit scores while taking out a loan and making timely payments on that loan.

Insurance companies can use use drivers’ credit scores and personal credit score information to determine how much to charge for auto insurance rates.

Dental procedures can be expensive and even if you have insurance, many procedures or fees may not be covered. If your credit is not good, secure a loan for the balance of the dental procedure may be difficult. Do not be discouraged if you do not have a good credit, because there are options available to help finance your dental work.

Collection agencies have been doing it for years — collecting on a consumers bad debt who’s essentially said they won’t pay. Even the most hopeless of bad debts can be collected on — here are six of their secrets.