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As you are no doubt aware, the financial climate has changed considerably in the last 18 months and as a result people are realizing that cheap and easy credit is far more unlikely now then than before. Credit lenders are tightening up the criteria for acceptance on loan and mortgage applications and interest rates continue to rise.

With this current situation, many people are looking for advice on how to get a loan. They want to know how they should approach their bank and also what can they do to improve the likelihood of getting the loan. This article will present some useful tips that you can use before approaching a bank or other financial institution about applying for credit. The aim is to give you the best chance of getting that loan.

The first step you need to take is to find out what your current credit status is. All banks and financial institutions will make lending decisions on the basis of credit scoring. This score will help to determine whether credit should be issued or not. In the United States this information is held by two agencies known as Experian and Equifax. You are able, usually for a small fee, to access these records to check what your credit status is. This is important to check even if you feel that your credit is good. There could be a clerical error against the record or perhaps the previous occupant at your address may have had poor credit. If their correspondence mail is still linked to the address, this can have an adverse effect on your chances of getting credit.

Once you have ascertained the status of your credit rating, you are now in a position to seek out the right lender. This is a crucial decision as some banks will only consider lending to those who have high salaries and excellent credit. Your chances of success may be enhanced if you seek out a bank who considers those applicants who may have had credit problems in the past. If you are in a good position and are able to choose between different lenders then it is important that you research loans to find the best interest rate. A fixed rate loan is far better than variable so that you can plan your finances long term, knowing that the amount will stay the same each month until it is repaid.

Once you have found a loan that matches your needs and the lender is suitable to your credit rating it is a good idea to look closely at the terms and conditions of the loan. Many lenders will offer payment protection as an additional extra. You can expect to pay a small monthly fee, but this protection can be invaluable should you fall ill or are unable to find employment. In these circumstances this protection will cover the monthly repayments for the duration of the time you are unable to work.

You should also study what happens should you miss a payment. What are the responsibilities of the lender in these circumstances and what is expected of you?

Finally, you should to speak to the adviser at the bank before and after your credit application. They will be happy to advise you on the best course of action based up on your personal circumstances. If you are likely to be unsuccessful then they may be able to advise an alternative solution or provide ways in which you can improve your credit rating for future credit applications.