* Income per Month (Varies with creditors) -$800.00 = 1 point -$100.00 = 2 points -$1500.00 = 3 points -$1800+ = 4 points

* Current Debt per Month -0 - $300.00 = 1 point -$301.00 - $500.00 = 2 points -$500 or more = 3 points

* Previous Credit -A loan in good standing with agency you are now applying with = 4-5 points -A loan in good standing with any other agency = 2-3 points

* Savings or Checking Account Information $500.00 in a checking or saving that has been open for 6 months or more = 2 points

* Having a phone in your name is worth another 2 points.

When you add these up you should have anywhere from fifteen to twenty points in order to secure a loan. If one creditor turns you down, keep trying. Each creditor has a unique set of guidelines they use to determine whether or not a loan is given. If you need to boost your credit score, try getting a loan using a co-signer or a secured loan and pay it back before it is due, or apply for a credit card.

Before You Invest * Consider Your Options There are many different ways to invest your money. Do not rush into a decision based on advice from friends or family. Research and consult many sources before deciding on investment plan that is right for you. You should have a goal in mind. Ask yourself how soon that you want to see return from investment and how much money that you would like to make as well as how much money you could conceivably loose.

* Financial Advisors Financial Advisors can be an excellent source of information when deciding on your investment strategies. In fact, if you are not familiar with processes involved, they are almost essential. Before choosing a financial advisor, you should interview several to find out what exactly you are getting for your money and always ask for references when interviewing an advisor.