5 Steps For Taking Out A Line of Credit

There are several steps for taking out a line of credit. By following these simple steps, families can take out a line of credit to improve their financial situation. Banks clearly outline the process for taking out a line of credit. Qualifying for a line of credit can help ease financial burden and provide easy access to funds. By following these steps, you will understand how to take out a line of credit and whether doing so is financially feasible. In this article, we’ll discuss the steps necessary for taking out a line of credit and what you should be aware of through that process.

Check Your Credit Score

Check your credit score before taking out a line of credit as your score will significantly impact your ability to apply for a personal credit line. Prior to applying for a line of credit, take measures to boost your credit score. The better your credit health is, the greater chance you have of qualifying for a lower interest rate. Thus, your credit score is critical as it largely determines whether you can take out a line of credit. Plus, securing a loan can be difficult with bad business credit ratings. In addition, your credit score helps dictate how great of a line of credit you can access. By checking your credit score, you have taken the first step to applying for a line of credit.

Estimate How Much Money You Need

Next, estimate how much money you need so you can best determine how much of a line of credit you need to take out. Typically, you can borrow up to 85% of the value of your home, subtracting the amount you owe. For example, if your home is worth $500,000 and your mortgage totals to $200,000, you can establish a line of credit with a $225,000 dollar limit. Thus, it is critical to determine how much money you will need for the specific project or purchase you plan to make. There are also other loan costs such as application fees and closing costs. If the amount you’re looking to spend and your line of credit are not within the same range, you may need to turn to alternative financing options.

Learn The Different Types Of Lines Of Credit

Learn about the different types of lines of credit so you can determine which repayment option works best for you. Most lines of credit will function like a credit card with interest accruing immediately once funds are withdrawn. There is also a set term for each loan. This key component is important to consider especially when applying for your first credit card. Personal lines of credit can also feature separate draw and repayment periods. This allows you to withdraw funds during the draw period, while requiring them to make monthly payments during the repayment period.  Additionally, a personal line of credit can also require payment of the entire balance at the end of the term, otherwise known as a balloon payment. Balloon payments come with the added need to refinance if you are unable to repay the full amount. These alternative methods can prove useful based on your own unique financial situation.

Compare Lines Of Credit To Personal Loans

Learn the differences between a personal loan and a line of credit. Understanding both will help you decide whether a line of credit works best for your financial situation. With personal loans, your interest charges are spread across all payments. With a line of credit, interest is charged only on your outstanding balance. Furthermore, a personal loan requires you to pay an identical amount every month for the life of the loan. With a line of credit, you can pay back what you owe in payments of any amount at or above a specified monthly minimum. It’s fairly easy to get cash from either a personal loan or a line of credit. With a personal loan, you receive a lump-sum cash payment, and with a line of credit you typically get a checkbook and a debit card you can use for purchases. Understanding the benefits of both these options can help you decide whether a line of credit would work best for you.

Understand The Different Uses For A Line Of Credit

Finally, you must learn the different uses for a line of credit to determine which is most helpful. One of the most popular uses for a line of credit are projects that have funding challenges. For instance, if you are redoing your kitchen at the same time your daughter is getting married, a line of credit could be a way to pay for both. Alternatively, if you find yourself in an emergency situation, a line of credit will help consolidate your debt. Therefore, you can save money using the credit card instead of applying for an expensive loan. For instance, if your tax bill comes the same time the credit card bills are due along with college tuition for your child, a line of credit may be the best option. Taking into account different situations in which funds are needed can help you determine whether your financial needs are similar.

There are several steps to taking out a line of credit that can help determine its benefit to you. By checking your credit score, estimating how much money you need, and leaning about the different types of credit lines and their uses, you are educating yourself on how to best navigate your financial situation. The amount needed and type of credit line can help determine which option works best for you. Taking out a line of credit is dependent upon both your credit score and your individual financial needs. By understanding these factors and doing the proper research, you can successfully take out a line of credit.