With the economy in the dumps, credit repair is more common than it has ever been. If you need a complete overhaul or a simple tune up, these tips will help you to improve your credit score.

Finding your credit score is the first step. There are a variety of sites that you can do this; some are even free. To begin repairing your credit, it is important to know where you stand.

It might be a good idea to ask your creditors about the options they have for payments, which may save you money in late fees and interest charges. If you can pay one company late without incurring extra charges, you can be sure to pay them only after paying the more urgent bills.

Always note any negative information you find when reviewing your credit report. Everybody makes mistakes and credit scores are not 100% guaranteed right. That's why you should check for mistakes and unfair charges. First, you have to know what these reports are about, and then you have to go about fixing them.

Make sure you know your rights when dealing with a collection agency. For example, collection agencies can't threaten you and you can't go to jail for failure to make payments. While each state has its own laws, most of them ban threats and verbal abuse. Get educated so you can be sure that your personal and legal rights are being respected.

Stay on top of your current credit accounts, and make sure balances do not exceed 30 percent of your available limit. Your credit card payments will be more reasonable this way, and it will put less strain on your monthly budget. If your debt is over 30 percent, your disposable income will be reduced by excessive interest charges. Always check your balances, keeping them as low as possible.

If your debts were sent to a collection agency, speak with them to work something out. You can talk with the collection agency about setting up a payment plan. They will often be willing to work with you since they are happy you are even offering to make any payments. Avoiding collection agencies will only make your problems worse. Your debts will not magically vanish. There are some agencies that will allow you to cut your debt in half, if you are financially strapped. If your debts are sent to collections, then you need to contact them to make payment arrangements. One option you have is requesting a payment plan, and most collection agencies are happy that you are willing to set up payment arrangements with them. Avoiding debt collectors will not make the problem go away; ignoring your debt does not free you from your responsibilities. 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.

These tips will help you manage your credit. These tips will help you begin repairing your credit today.