How to Spot ID Theft on Your Credit Report

ID-10060832An important aspect of qualifying for an auto loan, even with troubled credit, is your credit score.  One of the best ways an applicant can prepare for the process is to go over their report and ensure that everything listed is correct.  Any number of things can work against you, which is why everyone always recommends a look over before making any major financial decisions.  Be on the lookout for anything that doesn’t match up with your own records.  If you see something wrong, get it taken care of.  Another thing to be aware of if you see something unfamiliar on your credit report is that you may be a victim of identity theft.

TransUnion has some tips to help make sure you can avoid being a victim.  There are certain signs in your report that may point to fraud.  Here’s what you need to keep an eye out for:

  • If you see any accounts, payment histories, addresses, inquires, or Social Security Numbers that you don’t recognize.
  • If an unknown creditor tells you they got an application with your name and Social Security on it that you were unaware of.
  • If you’re getting calls or letters informing you of being approved or denied for credit but never applied.
  • If you have gotten credit card, utility, or telephone statements that are in your name but you never applied.
  • If you notice that your mail, including credit card statements, is not always being delivered to you.
  • If there are credit card purchases you don’t recognize.
  • If a collection agency contacts you about collecting on an account you never opened.

These are all important signs that someone has gotten ahold of your information and are using it for malicious purposes.  Make sure you are aware so that you can work to protect yourself.  Don’t let a thief drag down your credit and along with it the ability to apply for credit.

If you’re in the market for a vehicle then contact us at Bayside Chrysler Jeep Dodge and find out how we can help.  We love to say yes!  Browse our new and pre-owned inventory online.  Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for more news and monthly offers.

Auto Loans Surge As Market Recovers

ID-100130602What a difference four years can make.  Not that long ago, with the economy in the gutter due to the recent collapse, car buyers were unable to find banks to fund them the money needed to purchase.  Since then, the economy has bounced back and so has the lending.  What was a mere fantasy years ago is now a better reality with interest rates that are finally returning to where they were before the recession.

Bloomberg writes that lenders are very optimistic about the year to come.  In February, the U.S. light-vehicle sales had an up-tick of 3.7 percent.  “The availability of consumer credit is plentiful, “says Kurt McNeil, the VP of US sales operation for GM.

Low interest rates and the availability of credit are the biggest reasons that the US auto sales have gotten a boost.  It rose 13 percent just last year which marks that as the largest annual increase since 1984.  Another reason is that employment has increased, which has caused dealers to increase their leasing, knowing that buyers will be better on paying off loans.

The market is recovering and car buyers are finding the necessary loans readily available.  Interest rates are low and are coming down to the point of where they were before the recession took its toll.  All around the nation, banks and lenders are doing their best to grab attention to let buyers know that dealerships are open for business in the best way.

That includes Bayside Chrysler Jeep Dodge.  Serving the Queens, Bronx, Manhattan, and Long Island Area with quality customer care and experts that work diligently to get car buyers the loans they need.  We love to say yes.  Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for tips on purchasing a vehicle and for special monthly offers.

2013 Looking Up for Auto Loans!

ally_auto_NADA2013_infographics_612x792Dealers are incredibly optimistic about what 2013 is going to bring. More than 100 auto dealers were surveyed at the 2013 NADA convention that occurred over the weekend. What Ally Financial put together from all of the responses was that they are expecting this new year to be strong.

About 60% the surveyed dealerships believe that their sales will be growing by 10% or more this year. 54% believe that buyer confidence will provide a boost to sales. Sales will also be bolstered by the cars getting too old to drive, promotions, and a host of new models that will be on display in showrooms. Also, half of those surveyed also believe that with people getting their credit improved, this in turn will lead to them coming in and purchasing a vehicle.

The survey also showed optimism in used-car sales. 47% think, in fact, that it’ll be the most profitable segment in the year.

We’re definitely looking forward to an incredible year at Bayside Chrysler Jeep Dodge. If you’re in the Queens area and are needing help to get a car, we’re ready to help you. We love to say yes, so start the process by contacting us. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for more news and monthly deals.