Small Business Finance :: Articles

5 Credit Killers

What are the top factors that can damage your credit score?

5 Credit Killers

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

A good credit score speaks volumes about your financial habits. It's the evidence most creditors need to evaluate your credit worthiness.
Interestingly, there are some credit killers that even people maintaining good credit scores would unwittingly be a part of, which will be their undoing when applying for credit facilities in the future.
These mistakes may seem to be insignificant, but when the time comes, you may face more problems than you expect.

Avoiding Debt

Creditors need to evaluate your financial history to approve any credit facilities.
If you have no previous or existing debts, it might adversely affect your case, as creditors have no way of checking out how you'll handle the credit you get from them.

Shopping For Rates

Looking around for the best rate may actually turn out to be bad.
Debt Stressed?
Image for Debt Stressed?If you're struggling to pay your debts and covering living expenses, we're here to help. Through our national panel of Debt Management specialists, we can help customers with $10k or more in debt by consolidating your existing loans, stopping Debt collectors from contacting you and re-negotiating repayments on your terms!
Too many inquiries within a short period could damage your credit score.
Usually, if you do more than 3 or 4 inquiries within a single month, you are likely to scare the lenders. For the same reasons, transferring the balances on your credit cards could be a bad idea as well.

Assuming There's a Grace Period

If you are late on a payment by even one day, you are late, period.
Never assume there's a grace period for late payments, because it only affects your credit score negatively.

Closing Old Accounts

Because your relevant transaction history also gets erased when you close your old accounts, your credit history is shortened and it may lower your credit score.
If you want to close your old accounts, close everything except the oldest account, which will leave a longer history.

Co-signing Loans

The obvious problem here is that the primary borrower's mistakes will end up on your credit report as well.

Published: Sunday, 1st Aug 2021
Author: Paige Estritori

Rate this article

0 Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.


Business Loans Articles

Loan Refinancing Explained: A Comprehensive Guide for Australian Entrepreneurs
Loan Refinancing Explained: A Comprehensive Guide for Australian Entrepreneurs
Cash flow is the lifeblood of any business, particularly for startups. It refers to the amount of cash that comes in and goes out of a business. Proper management of this flow is crucial for the success and sustainability of new enterprises. Ensuring a positive cash flow allows businesses to meet their financial obligations, invest in growth opportunities, and manage unexpected expenses. - read more
The Essential Guide to Fast-Tracking Your Small Business Loan Approval
The Essential Guide to Fast-Tracking Your Small Business Loan Approval
In the fast-paced world of business, securing funding swiftly can be the difference between seizing an opportunity and watching it slip away. For small businesses, the urgency of quick loan approvals is often more pronounced. Each day spent waiting for approval could translate to lost revenue, hindered growth, or the inability to meet operational demands. - read more

Finance News

OnDeck Australia Boosts Lightning Loans Plus Cap to $300,000
OnDeck Australia Boosts Lightning Loans Plus Cap to $300,000
06 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori
In response to escalating demand from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), OnDeck Australia has elevated the maximum limit on its Lightning Loans Plus product to $300,000. This strategic enhancement aims to furnish SMEs with expedited access to more substantial unsecured loans, thereby facilitating their growth and operational needs. - read more
AFIA and Government Unite to Aid SMEs During Fuel Crisis
AFIA and Government Unite to Aid SMEs During Fuel Crisis
06 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Finance Industry Association (AFIA) has announced a partnership with the Australian government to provide support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) impacted by global fuel market disruptions. This collaboration aims to address the financial challenges faced by businesses due to rising fuel costs and supply chain issues. - read more

Need Help Finding a Loan?
Business Loan Quote
Loan Amount:
Postcode:

All quotes are provided obligation-free by a participating broker from our national referral partner network. We respect your Privacy.

All finance quotes are provided free (via our secure server) and without obligation.
We respect your privacy.

Knowledgebase
Capital Market:
A financial market in which long-term debt or equity-backed securities are bought and sold.