580 replies to this topic

[hegemony]

1335469198[/url]' post='4668890']

1335469095[/url]' post='4668887']
Are UMB and SFB known to be BK friendly? I saw you mention them a couple of times but haven't seen them mentioned in recent threads or the bk friendly thread lately and there not much in credit pulls.

IIRC SFB requires 3 years post BK and CP reveals several approvals with BK reporting.

Maybe I'm thinking of a different acronym? SFB = State Farm Bank? I only see BK declines for them going back as far as 08, so I must be.

correct state farm bank. some entries note BK but not as the reason for denial e.g., "BK7 3/99, denied for too many inq."

[hegemony]

Bump for an interesting thread.

Wells Fargo secured: $300
Capital One: $500
Bank of America: $1000
Walmart: $1100
Discover More: $1500
Barclay Ring: $2500
Citi Div. Visa: $4000
USAA Mastercard: $10,000
USAA Amex: $11,000
Amex Zync
Amex BCE
USAA Auto loan 6700/7600

I am going to be moving soon and was thinking I should try for a personal line of credit as I think it would help diversify? Something along the lines of $5K

You are too hard on yourself; this is an excellent set of cards to build the core of a portfolio. That said, you do need to add some diversity and focus on higher limits. USAA sure has been good to you. I am not sure the wells secured and the crap1 are doing much for you at this point. adding a couple CUs, if that is feasible for you, certainly seems in order. DCU for the free FICO and Alliant come to mind; but also check out local CUs where you live. I'd also like to see a couple oddball cards. Check out the oddball card thread to see which ones might serve your interests.

Work on the things holding you back and figure out a plan for the next 12-36 months to add CUs, oddballs, and CLIs. A solid B.

[road2freedom]

1335469889[/url]' post='4668901']

1335469539[/url]' post='4668893']

1335469198[/url]' post='4668890']

1335469095[/url]' post='4668887']
Are UMB and SFB known to be BK friendly? I saw you mention them a couple of times but haven't seen them mentioned in recent threads or the bk friendly thread lately and there not much in credit pulls.

IIRC SFB requires 3 years post BK and CP reveals several approvals with BK reporting.

Maybe I'm thinking of a different acronym? SFB = State Farm Bank? I only see BK declines for them going back as far as 08, so I must be.

correct state farm bank. some entries note BK but not as the reason for denial e.g., "BK7 3/99, denied for too many inq."

Yeah but that pull was 4 years ago and about 9.5 years post BK, and was still a decline. Sorry don't mean to get off track, but I figured it was worth the discussion since it was recommended. I've been looking to add another bank card myself, which is why I'm interested. But I was already the guinea pig once this month.

[hegemony]

Yeah this is interesting.. Is Hegemoney still handing out results?

Alliant CU - $7500
Cap One - $3500
Cap One - $2000
Hoot - $3000
Senate CU - $3000
WM Discover - $1400
Abercrombie - $1000
Barclays iTunes - $5000

CU Auto Loan - $23k-ish
Mortgage - $75k-ish

BK 6/06

Post BK you have made great strides toward amassing a high performance portfolio. As you are aware, post BK limits your card options, but you can do more to explore the very good products that are open to people post BK. Give up on obtaining more hooters or crap1 cards. Focus on CUs and oddballs that are BK friendly. Barclays has some products that, with recon, are often open for BKers. Considering you're post BK, you score a solid B- but are very close to a high B.

[itrev82]

Yeah this is interesting.. Is Hegemoney still handing out results?

Alliant CU - $7500
Cap One - $3500
Cap One - $2000
Hoot - $3000
Senate CU - $3000
WM Discover - $1400
Abercrombie - $1000
Barclays iTunes - $5000

CU Auto Loan - $23k-ish
Mortgage - $75k-ish

BK 6/06

Post BK you have made great strides toward amassing a high performance portfolio. As you are aware, post BK limits your card options, but you can do more to explore the very good products that are open to people post BK. Give up on obtaining more hooters or crap1 cards. Focus on CUs and oddballs that are BK friendly. Barclays has some products that, with recon, are often open for BKers. Considering you're post BK, you score a solid B- but are very close to a high B.

Thanks Hege. I am tempted to close Hoot everytime I get a new card, but then I think - I dont want to lose that 3k availability so I leave it open. I just opened acct at DCU and applied at SDFCU just to get foot in the door for later. Might have to look at the oddball ones.

I do want to do a product change off the iTunes card, but dont want another new account or inquiry at the moment.. so just using that card for 0% bal txfr deals.

But thanks for checking - my goal is CU cards and one day SW Card from Chase (I bk'ed them so have to wait a lonnnng time).

Edited by itrev82, 26 April 2012 - 03:04 PM.

[hegemony]

See my signature.

And add an Auto Loan - ~ $18k

ETA:
Other's were including this, so I figured what the hell.

Length of Credit History: 7 Years, 9 Months
Average Account Age: 3 Years, 4 Months

BK7 - Discharged: June, 2008
Post-BK:
Navy Federal CU cashRewards Visa: $14,400
Travelocity Rewards American Express: $12,000
Alliant Credit Union Platinum Rewards Visa: $5,000
Utah Central CU Platinum Preferred Visa: $5,000
BestBuy RewardZone Mastercard: $4,250
Utah Central CU Visa Classic: $2,250
Nordstrom Retail Card: $2,000
Discover More: $1,000
Jared: $1,000
Utah Central CU - LOC: $500
Cyprus CU - LOC: $100

for being 4 years post BK you have done much better than I did at that point in my rebuilding. You also should be lauded for pursuing CU cards. You should consider another Barclays (be sure to ask for recon if denied... my first THREE approvals from barclays when my BK was still reporting we via recon) and perhaps another from Navy. If you have been using the Nordstrom's card, you might consider asking for an upgrade to the visa. Overall, I would say you have made many excellent choices in cards. To move forward, simply keep doing what you've been doing and keep an eye out for good post BK products. With the Utah CUs on your list, I wonder if you might want to try Zions or Torry Pines/Western Bank Alliance (regional banks) for a card? Grade: B+ with 5 gold stars.

Edited by hegemony, 26 April 2012 - 03:06 PM.

[hegemony]

Awesome! Maybe I'll post in it.

that would make this thread awesome

[Matti]

See my signature.

And add an Auto Loan - ~ $18k

ETA:
Other's were including this, so I figured what the hell.

Length of Credit History: 7 Years, 9 Months
Average Account Age: 3 Years, 4 Months

BK7 - Discharged: June, 2008
Post-BK:
Navy Federal CU cashRewards Visa: $14,400
Travelocity Rewards American Express: $12,000
Alliant Credit Union Platinum Rewards Visa: $5,000
Utah Central CU Platinum Preferred Visa: $5,000
BestBuy RewardZone Mastercard: $4,250
Utah Central CU Visa Classic: $2,250
Nordstrom Retail Card: $2,000
Discover More: $1,000
Jared: $1,000
Utah Central CU - LOC: $500
Cyprus CU - LOC: $100

for being 4 years post BK you have done much better than I did at that point in my rebuilding. You also should be lauded for pursuing CU cards. You should consider another Barclays (be sure to ask for recon if denied... my first THREE approvals from barclays when my BK was still reporting we via recon) and perhaps another from Navy. If you have been using the Nordstrom's card, you might consider asking for an upgrade to the visa. Overall, I would say you have made many excellent choices in cards. To move forward, simply keep doing what you've been doing and keep an eye out for good post BK products. With the Utah CUs on your list, I wonder if you might want to try Zions or Torry Pines/Western Bank Alliance (regional banks) for a card? Grade: B+ with 5 gold stars.

Much apprecaited. Zions picked up my old Auto 4 days after my BK was done. I've never given their cards a try. Barclays said they'd gladly re-allocate some of my Travelocity to the Ring, last week. But wouldn't approve another card. Nordstrom is about 4 months old. Just waiting for that 7 month mark to request a conversion.

Just keeping my eyes open for friendly creditors to pop up!

[jmz.d]

Grading you is difficult because my inclination is to round you up to the next grade level just to reward your progress. But I'll pretend I am in a sour mood and give you the grade you earned: B-

Hehe...thanks!

I've had some CLIs and added a Barclay Ring since I posted this. I think I'm going to stick with what I've got and work on boosting the limits on all the bank cards to above 10k and the store cards to at least 5k. I'm going to wait on the CU suggestion for now and let my accounts age for a year or so.

[hegemony]

I am going to list my wifes first as she is the one im most concerned with

Auto Loan with Credit Union: 14.5K Current Balance 13K even 9 months

Capital One Secured: $371 CL $1 Balance

CFNA/Hibdons Card (AU) $1200 CL $0 Balance

Capital One (AU) :$300 CL $0 Balance

Capital One Secured (AU) $300 CL $0 Balance

I hate to sound critical, but I am sure you both know she needs more cards in her name. Another secured card would be a good option (DCU has a wonderful secured card). I believe some CUs still offer joint cards; my wife and I have a joint card at NASA. Perhaps consider a joint application is possible. I recommend she consider applying for a couple store cards, even if the limits turn out to be low, just to start building the history. walmart and target might be good options. While this grade will be disappointing, keep in mind that 1) you're both in the right place to help improve her portfolio (CB) and 2) ALL of my students are above average. Grade: D

[Repairerer]

Here we go.

JC Penney $2,400
Local CU $6,000
Amazon Store $1,500
Navy Federal $15,000
Target Red $1,000
PSECU combination Visa/LOC $20,000
Citi HHonors $3,900
Discover More $4,000
Walmart Store $1,000
Amex Blue Preferred $10,600
Penfed Home Equity $45,000

Early next year I want to apply for Amex HHonors and then try and product change the Citi to something else. I am also hoping that my new HEL might open some doors for Penfed offers.

[patz2009]

Mostly copy/paste from my signature, plus adding a couple items:




Direct Student Loans, approx $4000 outstanding balance (08/2009)


VISIONS FCU VISA CLASSIC [secured] (02/2011) - $2000
CAPITAL ONE JOURNEY STUDENT REWARDS (07/2011) - $750
HOUSEHOLD BANK PLATINUM REWARDS (07/2011) - $500
CHASE FREEDOM (11/2011) - $3000
CITI FORWARD (03/2012) - $4000
GEMB WALMART DISCOVER (03/2012) - $600
AMERICAN EXPRESS BLUE SKY (04/2012) - $4000

VISIONS FCU Readi-Reserve LOC (03/2012) - $500 [reports as installment loan]




Any recommendations or criticism?

[Repairerer]

Mostly copy/paste from my signature, plus adding a couple items:




Direct Student Loans, approx $4000 outstanding balance (08/2009)


VISIONS FCU VISA CLASSIC [secured] (02/2011) - $2000
CAPITAL ONE JOURNEY STUDENT REWARDS (07/2011) - $750
HOUSEHOLD BANK PLATINUM REWARDS (07/2011) - $500
CHASE FREEDOM (11/2011) - $3000
CITI FORWARD (03/2012) - $4000
GEMB WALMART DISCOVER (03/2012) - $600
AMERICAN EXPRESS BLUE SKY (04/2012) - $4000

VISIONS FCU Readi-Reserve LOC (03/2012) - $500 [reports as installment loan]




Any recommendations or criticism?

I'm not Prof Hege, and I'm sure his wisdom will be much superior to mine, but congrats on getting a higher limit than me with Citi, and getting the Wally Disco instead of the store card.

Please let us know if Visions ever appears to be on a national recruiting campaign.

[patz2009]

Mostly copy/paste from my signature, plus adding a couple items:




Direct Student Loans, approx $4000 outstanding balance (08/2009)


VISIONS FCU VISA CLASSIC [secured] (02/2011) - $2000
CAPITAL ONE JOURNEY STUDENT REWARDS (07/2011) - $750
HOUSEHOLD BANK PLATINUM REWARDS (07/2011) - $500
CHASE FREEDOM (11/2011) - $3000
CITI FORWARD (03/2012) - $4000
GEMB WALMART DISCOVER (03/2012) - $600
AMERICAN EXPRESS BLUE SKY (04/2012) - $4000

VISIONS FCU Readi-Reserve LOC (03/2012) - $500 [reports as installment loan]




Any recommendations or criticism?

I'm not Prof Hege, and I'm sure his wisdom will be much superior to mine, but congrats on getting a higher limit than me with Citi, and getting the Wally Disco instead of the store card.

Please let us know if Visions ever appears to be on a national recruiting campaign.

Will do. They recently acquired 2 other credit unions lately, but they're all still based on location so only some spots in NY and NJ will qualify for membership.

[ukikkgr]

Great Thread.... I'd like to throw my hat in the ring.

Never BK'd but was a 'ghost' for 10 years as previous past dues ran past their SOL.

I started rebuilding in 2003 with a used auto loan and scores in the 590's. In 2008 I purchased a house $350K FHA 5.85% fixed. Then in October 2008 my scores dropped due to high ute and my CU banks canceled two lines of credit (Redi Cash Loan-$8500, Visa-$2500). I've been crawling out of the rabbit hole ever since.

(2005)Orchard Bank- $1350
(2005) Best Buy HSBC-$1800
(2006)US Airways- $500
(2005) GE Paypal-$300
(2007-closed 2008) VISA- $2500 (PIF)
(2007-closed 2008) CU Redi Cash Loan- $8500- $2300 balance. On time pay(reported as revolving-destroyed me)
(2008) Mobile/Exxon-$500
(2010) HVFCU-$18,500
(2011)Cap One Plat M/C- $7500

7-yr credit history. 1-30 late March 2007, 1-30 day late Nov 2008. On time since

Refi on house assured in June (already pre-approved just waiting for new PMI rates to take effect). Hoping to lock in $330k under 4%. So I'm holding on changing credit till then. After that I want to close the GE Cap. My ute is always 40-50%. Everytime I add new credit my scores dump 60-80pts. I had a 30 day late in Nov which I successfully disputed. My scores dropped from 680-590. So adding new credit has not been fun.

Advice?

Edited by ukikkgr, 27 April 2012 - 08:09 AM.

[CoderBlix]

I am pretty new to all this...so any help evaluating my steps will be super appreciated. I have a few old cards and a few new....not sure what to go after now as I dont see anything else that seems attractive...

Cap One Plat - $500 Opened 2001 (Dont really use it but it has been on there 4-ever and I am afraid to close)
HSBC - $600 Opened 2002 (Same as above...)
Amex Plat - Opened last week
Citi Plat Select - $2,000 Opened last week
Chase Sapphire Preferred - $10,000 Opened last week

As you can see I havent applied for or used a lot of credit cards until very recently. I have mainly used a Charles Schwab Visa tied to my investment account in the past. My scores are all close to 700 and I am wondering if this lack of revolving credit has hurt me (I am an AU on my spouses Amex Plat Delta 20K). Any ideas? Should I go for some additional cards before I let things settle down? I am guessing my grade is pretty low..... THX!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[hegemony]

Here we go.

JC Penney $2,400
Local CU $6,000
Amazon Store $1,500
Navy Federal $15,000
Target Red $1,000
PSECU combination Visa/LOC $20,000
Citi HHonors $3,900
Discover More $4,000
Walmart Store $1,000
Amex Blue Preferred $10,600
Penfed Home Equity $45,000

Early next year I want to apply for Amex HHonors and then try and product change the Citi to something else. I am also hoping that my new HEL might open some doors for Penfed offers.

Excellent diversity, but what a huge range in your limits! CITI and discover are not giving you the respect you've earned. I think the plan to apply for another amex is cogent. You should also consider some more CUs since they clearly have been your friend; maybe Alliant. Is there some reason you don't have chase or barclays? They should be on your radar. If you bifurcated your cards into Amex + CUs you'd have a solid A-. But discover and citi drag on your grade, resulting in a B+ with one bronze star and one palladium star.

[hegemony]

Mostly copy/paste from my signature, plus adding a couple items:

Direct Student Loans, approx $4000 outstanding balance (08/2009)

VISIONS FCU VISA CLASSIC [secured] (02/2011) - $2000
CAPITAL ONE JOURNEY STUDENT REWARDS (07/2011) - $750
HOUSEHOLD BANK PLATINUM REWARDS (07/2011) - $500
CHASE FREEDOM (11/2011) - $3000
CITI FORWARD (03/2012) - $4000
GEMB WALMART DISCOVER (03/2012) - $600
AMERICAN EXPRESS BLUE SKY (04/2012) - $4000

VISIONS FCU Readi-Reserve LOC (03/2012) - $500 [reports as installment loan]

Any recommendations or criticism?

Not a bad core portfolio but you have much room for improvement. You have a lot of young accounts so, as I am sure you know already, you need to set a 24 month course on where to take your portfolio. If the Household card has an AF I would kill it the month before the AF comes due. If not, continue to keep an eye on it because in the next 12-24 months it will be the ugly duckling in your growing list of fine cards.

Given your fortune with Chase, I am a little shocked to see you then applied for the GEMB Walmart Discover. That $600 limit is a real set-back. But that is in the past so let's look at where you are going.

With the TU score and only 3 inquires, you should consider applying with barclays once all your current accounts are 6 months or older. You could also consider an oddball like SFB which often pulls TU. You have recently joined two CUs so approaching them for cards seems in order. Around the turn of the year, consider trying for another amex issued card. Alliant and DCU also are worthy of your consideration. In sum, given the short time-frame for your extant accounts, you have done very well. To move up in the class, however, the next 24 months are crucial. You need to add more CUs and consider other large issuers while also keeping in mind the role oddballs can play. Grade: B- with one palladium star and three cookies.

[hegemony]

Great Thread.... I'd like to throw my hat in the ring.

Never BK'd but was a 'ghost' for 10 years as previous past dues ran past their SOL.

I started rebuilding in 2003 with a used auto loan and scores in the 590's. In 2008 I purchased a house $350K FHA 5.85% fixed. Then in October 2008 my scores dropped due to high ute and my CU banks canceled two lines of credit (Redi Cash Loan-$8500, Visa-$2500). I've been crawling out of the rabbit hole ever since.

(2005)Orchard Bank- $1350
(2005) Best Buy HSBC-$1800
(2006)US Airways- $500
(2005) GE Paypal-$300
(2007-closed 2008) VISA- $2500 (PIF)
(2007-closed 2008) CU Redi Cash Loan- $8500- $2300 balance. On time pay(reported as revolving-destroyed me)
(2008) Mobile/Exxon-$500
(2010) HVFCU-$18,500
(2011)Cap One Plat M/C- $7500

7-yr credit history. 1-30 late March 2007, 1-30 day late Nov 2008. On time since

Advice?

with a refi in the near future, take any new account suggestions with a pound of salt or pint of ale.

Given your limits history, you have made a good effort. The orchard card, if it has an AF, is a waste of your time at this point. Also, you should consider asking barclays for a CLI (call the magic number) OR apply for a new barclays product (such as the priceline 2% cashback visa) and then move the US Scare limit to it. The 2010 account from HVFCU should have embolden you to open more CU accounts in 2010 and 2011. Unfortunately, you stood pat, albeit understandably so given your rebuilding efforts. I recommend joining DCU and Alliant and perhaps Penfed; you don't need to apply for credit right away if you don't want to. But by joining you increase your chances of getting pre-screened offers from these fine institutions. The main reason I point you toward CUs is because it is clear that HVFCU saw something in you that crap1, barclats, etc. have not. Your grade is a lot lower today than it will be in 12-36 months so don't be discouraged. Grade: C with one cookie and a glass of malbec.

[hegemony]

I am pretty new to all this...so any help evaluating my steps will be super appreciated. I have a few old cards and a few new....not sure what to go after now as I dont see anything else that seems attractive...

Cap One Plat - $500 Opened 2001 (Dont really use it but it has been on there 4-ever and I am afraid to close)
HSBC - $600 Opened 2002 (Same as above...)
Amex Plat - Opened last week
Citi Plat Select - $2,000 Opened last week
Chase Sapphire Preferred - $10,000 Opened last week

As you can see I havent applied for or used a lot of credit cards until very recently. I have mainly used a Charles Schwab Visa tied to my investment account in the past. My scores are all close to 700 and I am wondering if this lack of revolving credit has hurt me (I am an AU on my spouses Amex Plat Delta 20K). Any ideas? Should I go for some additional cards before I let things settle down? I am guessing my grade is pretty low..... THX!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

In the past few days you have raised your grade out of the D range!!! I hope you see how easy it was to move from the back of the classroom to the front (remember that the buffet lunch and open bar are right here next to my desk at the front of the classroom). Your assignments, in order of importance, are: 1) pay on time and in full your three new lovely accounts; 2) If the two subprime cards have annual fees, close them the month before the fee renews; 3) make sure you are opted in to receive prescreened offers; 4) over the next 6-12 months join Alliant, DCU, and Penfed (you don't need to apply for credit if you don't want to at this time); 5) in 7 months consider applying for a barclays card and a card from one of your new CUs; 6) in 12 months apply for another amex issued card and shop around for an oddball or additional CU that offers perks and rewards that will enhance your life. Grade: C with a coupon for a free single malt scotch

[ukikkgr]

Great Thread.... I'd like to throw my hat in the ring.

Never BK'd but was a 'ghost' for 10 years as previous past dues ran past their SOL.

I started rebuilding in 2003 with a used auto loan and scores in the 590's. In 2008 I purchased a house $350K FHA 5.85% fixed. Then in October 2008 my scores dropped due to high ute and my CU banks canceled two lines of credit (Redi Cash Loan-$8500, Visa-$2500). I've been crawling out of the rabbit hole ever since.

(2005)Orchard Bank- $1350
(2005) Best Buy HSBC-$1800
(2006)US Airways- $500
(2005) GE Paypal-$300
(2007-closed 2008) VISA- $2500 (PIF)
(2007-closed 2008) CU Redi Cash Loan- $8500- $2300 balance. On time pay(reported as revolving-destroyed me)
(2008) Mobile/Exxon-$500
(2010) HVFCU-$18,500
(2011)Cap One Plat M/C- $7500

7-yr credit history. 1-30 late March 2007, 1-30 day late Nov 2008. On time since

Advice?

with a refi in the near future, take any new account suggestions with a pound of salt or pint of ale.

Given your limits history, you have made a good effort. The orchard card, if it has an AF, is a waste of your time at this point. Also, you should consider asking barclays for a CLI (call the magic number) OR apply for a new barclays product (such as the priceline 2% cashback visa) and then move the US Scare limit to it. The 2010 account from HVFCU should have embolden you to open more CU accounts in 2010 and 2011. Unfortunately, you stood pat, albeit understandably so given your rebuilding efforts. I recommend joining DCU and Alliant and perhaps Penfed; you don't need to apply for credit right away if you don't want to. But by joining you increase your chances of getting pre-screened offers from these fine institutions. The main reason I point you toward CUs is because it is clear that HVFCU saw something in you that crap1, barclats, etc. have not. Your grade is a lot lower today than it will be in 12-36 months so don't be discouraged. Grade: C with one cookie and a glass of malbec.

Ooops!!! The 2010 CU for $18500 is new auto. Sorry. But I do agree... I need more CU's... not just my current!


I love this... very encouraging. I've been afraid to apply for new credit because my CRA table always feels like it has weak and wobbly legs. That 30-day late in Nov pulled my scores down to 590. I make over $100K a year, 18 on time accounts, a mortgage, new auto and a 30 day from a CL with a $250 limit plunged me to 590. Discouraging. After my refi I plan to get aggressive. What do I have to lose really? US Scareways may go bye bye as well. Asked the for a CLI twice and they've refused. in June we'll be 7 years together.

Thanks... this reffairms my gut.

Edited by ukikkgr, 27 April 2012 - 11:11 AM.

[CoderBlix]

I am pretty new to all this...so any help evaluating my steps will be super appreciated. I have a few old cards and a few new....not sure what to go after now as I dont see anything else that seems attractive...

Cap One Plat - $500 Opened 2001 (Dont really use it but it has been on there 4-ever and I am afraid to close)
HSBC - $600 Opened 2002 (Same as above...)
Amex Plat - Opened last week
Citi Plat Select - $2,000 Opened last week
Chase Sapphire Preferred - $10,000 Opened last week

As you can see I havent applied for or used a lot of credit cards until very recently. I have mainly used a Charles Schwab Visa tied to my investment account in the past. My scores are all close to 700 and I am wondering if this lack of revolving credit has hurt me (I am an AU on my spouses Amex Plat Delta 20K). Any ideas? Should I go for some additional cards before I let things settle down? I am guessing my grade is pretty low..... THX!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

In the past few days you have raised your grade out of the D range!!! I hope you see how easy it was to move from the back of the classroom to the front (remember that the buffet lunch and open bar are right here next to my desk at the front of the classroom). Your assignments, in order of importance, are: 1) pay on time and in full your three new lovely accounts; 2) If the two subprime cards have annual fees, close them the month before the fee renews; 3) make sure you are opted in to receive prescreened offers; 4) over the next 6-12 months join Alliant, DCU, and Penfed (you don't need to apply for credit if you don't want to at this time); 5) in 7 months consider applying for a barclays card and a card from one of your new CUs; 6) in 12 months apply for another amex issued card and shop around for an oddball or additional CU that offers perks and rewards that will enhance your life. Grade: C with a coupon for a free single malt scotch

Thx Hegemony!!!!!!! If I close the subprimes wont I hurt my AAoA since they are so old? Would you reccomend that I ask them to move me to better cards or just close them out. My oldest account is 18 years and my average is just over 10. Thx again!!!!!!

[hegemony]

Thx Hegemony!!!!!!! If I close the subprimes wont I hurt my AAoA since they are so old? Would you reccomend that I ask them to move me to better cards or just close them out. My oldest account is 18 years and my average is just over 10. Thx again!!!!!!

if they will waive any AF (or if there is no AF) then keeping them open is fine. remember that closed accounts still contribute toward AAoA (AAoA comes in many forms, such as "all open accounts" and "all accounts" )

both of these issuers are not know to convert subprime to prime, but it would be worth asking them. maybe there are mid-prime products they can convert the cards into.

Edited by hegemony, 27 April 2012 - 11:23 AM.

[Repairerer]

Here we go.

JC Penney $2,400
Local CU $6,000
Amazon Store $1,500
Navy Federal $15,000
Target Red $1,000
PSECU combination Visa/LOC $20,000
Citi HHonors $3,900
Discover More $4,000
Walmart Store $1,000
Amex Blue Preferred $10,600
Penfed Home Equity $45,000

Early next year I want to apply for Amex HHonors and then try and product change the Citi to something else. I am also hoping that my new HEL might open some doors for Penfed offers.

Excellent diversity, but what a huge range in your limits! CITI and discover are not giving you the respect you've earned. I think the plan to apply for another amex is cogent. You should also consider some more CUs since they clearly have been your friend; maybe Alliant. Is there some reason you don't have chase or barclays? They should be on your radar. If you bifurcated your cards into Amex + CUs you'd have a solid A-. But discover and citi drag on your grade, resulting in a B+ with one bronze star and one palladium star.

Thanks Hege!

If I want to apply for The Negotiator, do you think I have to season my HEL for six months, or will installments not matter?

[hegemony]

Here we go.

JC Penney $2,400
Local CU $6,000
Amazon Store $1,500
Navy Federal $15,000
Target Red $1,000
PSECU combination Visa/LOC $20,000
Citi HHonors $3,900
Discover More $4,000
Walmart Store $1,000
Amex Blue Preferred $10,600
Penfed Home Equity $45,000

Early next year I want to apply for Amex HHonors and then try and product change the Citi to something else. I am also hoping that my new HEL might open some doors for Penfed offers.

Excellent diversity, but what a huge range in your limits! CITI and discover are not giving you the respect you've earned. I think the plan to apply for another amex is cogent. You should also consider some more CUs since they clearly have been your friend; maybe Alliant. Is there some reason you don't have chase or barclays? They should be on your radar. If you bifurcated your cards into Amex + CUs you'd have a solid A-. But discover and citi drag on your grade, resulting in a B+ with one bronze star and one palladium star.

Thanks Hege!

If I want to apply for The Negotiator, do you think I have to season my HEL for six months, or will installments not matter?

I don't recall hearing that barclays is sensitive to recent installment accounts. I think the worse off you'd been is an auto denial but having the opportunity to explain to an analyst the smart financial reasons for the HEL during recon.

ETA: is the HEL reporting already? I thought it was rather new?

Edited by hegemony, 27 April 2012 - 11:39 AM.