Given the current state of our economy, it is common for Americans to have credit problems. These tips can help you get your credit fixed no matter how big or small your problems are.

First and foremost, find out what your credit score is. Many sites are available to help you get a free credit score. Once you know what your credit score is, you can work to improve it and to erase any inaccuracies that you may find.

Make sure you stay in communication with debt collectors about your account information and payments. Once you get this information, you will be able to determine which accounts need your immediate attention, and which ones can be put off a bit. Dealing with the most critical accounts first can help you avoid paying additional fees. Deal with the accounts that allow payment plans and easy terms, and then tackle the more rigid ones.

As you read through your credit report, take notes on any negative information you find. Be sure to alert the credit bureau and the issuer of the report if you find an error. As for areas of your credit that look bad but are legitimate, think of a reasonable explanation that you can provide to people who review your credit in the future.

Make sure you research your rights when it comes to collection agencies. If you are threatened by collection agencies and told you could go to prison if you don't pay your debt, then you have been wronged. While the statutes may vary from one state to the next, making threats and abusive statements is typically illegal. Make sure that you know your rights in regards to debt collectors.

Your balance on a credit card should never exceed 30 percent of its limit. This figure is important for both improving your credit and making your payments easy to keep up with.

If you have debts with a collection agency, make sure to let them know that you are willing to work with them. Ask them to help you come up with a payment plan so you can get rid of your debt. If you ignore the collection calls, you will get nowhere. You will still owe the money, and you will find that they may be less willing to work with you. Collection agencies can work with your current situation, and many are able and willing to take less than you owe, so that you can manage the payments. If you receive notice that your debts have been bought by a collection agency, you should express willingness to cooperate with them. Collection agencies are happy establish payment plans for their clients that are willing to work on settling their debts. Avoiding the collection agencies is the worst possible thing you can do, since your debts will still be hanging out there. If you are facing financial difficulties, many collection companies will work with you by reducing your interest rate or lowering the amount you owe to make it more manageable.

The techniques in this article are designed to get you on track with your credit. You can start using them right now in order to rebuild your credit.