Credit Reports And Credit Scores

It’s easy to check your credit score, especially using a variety of online tools, but knowing what to do if you find something wrong on your credit report requires a bit of legwork that is worth the effort to help you protect your financial record.

First, by checking all three of the reporting agencies, you may find an error on just one. For example, one credit agency received an incorrect report of a credit union member as deceased, which certainly required a little effort to correct a credit report, but obviously made a big impact on a credit report. Look at all three agencies: Equifax, Experian, and Trans Union.

Second, know what your score means. Congratulations, your credit score is 715, but if you can improve it to 735 or 750, that can give you better options when it comes time to borrow. Your credit may be ideal for an auto loan, but if you’re planning for a 30-year mortgage, a little difference could mean a lot of savings in the long run. If you want to know how you can improve your score so you can plan for better interest rates of a larger line of credit, be sure to speak with a Dakota West loan officer at your local branch.

Third, if you’re young, start building credit sooner rather than later. If you have well-established credit and most of your debits are paid down, allow yourself to maintain lines of credit, even if you keep the balance paid off, to keep the credit rating you’ve worked hard to earn. Establishing credit and maintaining your credit go hand in hand to develop a long-term credit score that helps you reach your financial goals.

Refinance Your Vehicle Loan And Save

You may be spending your "at home" time dusting off your fifth wheel or testing the motor on your boat, thinking about getting ready for the upcoming summer. Why not also consider polishing off your finances and getting a little extra money for your camping expenses by refinancing your existing loan?

Dakota West is offering 1% cash back up to $500 on new or refinanced vehicle loans, including RVs, boats, personal watercraft, and yes, even cars and trucks. . With competitive rates, Dakota West will make your summer plans more rewarding.

To get started, speak with one of our loan officers by calling 800.411.7590, or click “Borrow” from the above menu options. This offer is for a limited time, so make putting extra cash in your pocket a summer plan you can start now.

*1% Cash Back Rebate offer valid on consumer-purpose new money vehicle loans including auto, truck, recreational vehicles, campers, boats, motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, personal watercraft, and snowmobiles, or refinances of any of the above vehicles from another financial institution. If refinancing an existing Dakota West vehicle loan, a minimum of $5,000 new money is required to receive the cash back rebate.

Rebate will be credited to member within 30 days of loan disbursement. The loan must remain with Dakota West for a minimum of 180 days or the rebate amount will be added to the loan upon payoff. No other offers or discounts apply, including rate discounts. Minimum vehicle loan amount is $5,000. The maximum cash back on consumer loans will not exceed $500 per financed loan. Dakota West reserves the right to amend, suspend, or discontinue this offer at any time.

APR = Annual Percentage Rate. All rates advertised are based upon the borrower’s qualifications and the loan amount.

Member NCUA

Come Home To A Great Deal With Dakota West!

If this is the year you’re planning a major purchase, 2020 is definitely your year to be a member of Dakota West! We are offering a 1% cash-back offer up to $500 on vehicle loans, including cars, trucks, boats, recreational vehicles, and more.

If a home mortgage is part of your financial plans for the coming year, or even if you are considering refinancing or purchasing a second home, learn more about how you can receive up to $1,000 off closing costs with Dakota West’s home loan offer.

To take advantage of either of these options, speak with one of our loan officers by calling 800.411.7590, or click “Borrow” from the above menu options. This offer is for a limited time, so get started on your plans to make 2020 an exciting new year with Dakota West.