Five Surprising Things That Hurt Your Credit Scores

We all know that making late payments or having credit card accounts in collections can hurt your credit scores. But you might be shocked to learn that a lot of other seemingly innocent actions can also negatively impact your credit rating.

Here's a list of five surprising things that can lower your credit scores -- and keep you from having a stellar credit report. 

Renting a Car With a Debit Card

I learned about this credit-busting issue the hard way: after I rented a car in 2009 from Avis using my debit card.

I thought I was being responsible by using a debit card linked to my checking account. After all, I figured, a debit card would help me avoid unnecessary credit card debt bills and stick to my zero debt lifestyle.

But no. In the fine print of its rental agreements, Avis includes a clause that basically says the company has the right to pull your credit report if you use a debit card as opposed to a credit card. In all fairness, most other car rental companies have contracts with the same clause.

READ MORE