Essential Tips to Avoid 5 Common Credit Killers and Boost Scores

5 Credit Killers

What are the top factors that can damage your credit score?

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

A good credit score speaks volumes about your financial habits. It's the evidence most creditors need to evaluate your credit worthiness.

Interestingly, there are some credit killers that even people maintaining good credit scores would unwittingly be a part of, which will be their undoing when applying for credit facilities in the future.

These mistakes may seem to be insignificant, but when the time comes, you may face more problems than you expect.

Avoiding Debt

Creditors need to evaluate your financial history to approve any credit facilities.

If you have no previous or existing debts, it might adversely affect your case, as creditors have no way of checking out how you'll handle the credit you get from them.

Shopping For Rates

Looking around for the best rate may actually turn out to be bad.

Too many inquiries within a short period could damage your credit score.

Usually, if you do more than 3 or 4 inquiries within a single month, you are likely to scare the lenders. For the same reasons, transferring the balances on your credit cards could be a bad idea as well.

Assuming There's a Grace Period

If you are late on a payment by even one day, you are late, period.

Never assume there's a grace period for late payments, because it only affects your credit score negatively.

Closing Old Accounts

Because your relevant transaction history also gets erased when you close your old accounts, your credit history is shortened and it may lower your credit score.

If you want to close your old accounts, close everything except the oldest account, which will leave a longer history.

Co-signing Loans

The obvious problem here is that the primary borrower's mistakes will end up on your credit report as well.

Stay informed with MoneyTips

MoneyTips logo Get practical financial information, news, guides and resources delivered free to your inbox each month with the MoneyTips eZine.

Subscribe to MoneyTips

Published: Sunday, 1st Aug 2021
Author: Paige Estritori

Rate this article

0 Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.

Finance News

Why the September Rate Rise Changes Loan Planning

28 Oct 2026: Paige Estritori

The Reserve Bank of Australia’s 29 September 2026 decision to lift the cash rate by 25 basis points to 4.60 per cent has put borrowing costs back at the centre of household and business planning. While the cash rate is not the only factor behind loan pricing, it influences funding costs and can flow through to variable rates, new fixed-rate offers and lender appetite for risk. - read more

Why Car and Equipment Borrowers Should Check the Final Payout

16 Sep 2026: Paige Estritori

Recent vehicle finance commentary has put balloon and residual payments back in the spotlight, particularly for Australians considering cars, utes, vans, trucks or business equipment. The issue is not that balloon structures are inherently unsuitable. Used carefully, they can help borrowers manage cash flow by lowering regular repayments. The risk is that the smaller monthly figure can distract from the larger amount still payable at the end of the loan or lease term. - read more

Why Selective Rate Cuts Deserve a Closer Look

09 Sep 2026: Paige Estritori

Recent lending market coverage points to a more competitive spring for Australian borrowers, with some banks and non-bank lenders adjusting selected fixed and variable loan offers. The shift does not mean borrowing has suddenly become easy or cheap, but it does suggest lenders are again competing harder for well-prepared applicants with stable income, clean repayment histories and clear loan purposes. - read more

Click for more Finance News

Finance Articles

Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Loans Online

Online loans have revolutionized the way Australians access finance. With the emergence of fintech and the convenience of the internet, obtaining a loan is now faster, easier, and often more customer-centric. When managed responsibly, the online loan application process empowers borrowers with quick funds for life's unexpected expenses or investments. However, the speed and simplicity of online transactions can also lead to common oversights. - read more

Business Loan Documents and Eligibility in Australia: What Lenders Commonly Assess

Preparing for business finance is easier when you know what lenders commonly check. This guide explains the documents, eligibility factors and practical preparation steps Australian business owners, sole traders and self-employed applicants may need before applying. - read more

A Comprehensive Guide to Debt Consolidation: Tips for Australian Borrowers

Welcome to your comprehensive guide to debt consolidation. If you have been feeling overwhelmed by multiple debts, this guide will provide valuable insights into how you can simplify your financial obligations. - read more