JR TOC Review

Eighty-eight per cent of Australians say day-to-day expenses, rent or mortgage repayments, groceries and bills, are the most common roadblocks to paying down debt, according to new research by Experian, the global information services company. Experian research also showed 65 per cent of Australians incorrectly believe contributing to superannuation or saving money can have a positive impact on your credit score. Andy Sheehan, Managing Director of Credit Services at Experian said the figures not only highlight a knowledge gap when it comes to understanding credit worthiness but also the difficulty Australians face in paying down debt as the cost of living continues to rise1. “Australians are more reliant on credit now than ever before. The Australian Securities and investment Commission noted recently that the average Australian credit card debt in 2014 was more than 30 per cent higher than the year before,” he said. “We know that the most effective way to manage credit card debt is to pay it off in full each month however, we also know that many of us are aren’t able to manage our debt in this way2. Our research suggests that about 19 per cent of Australians pay only the minimum repayment on their credit card and five per cent of those people prefer to put extra cash in savings instead of paying down their debt. “How we manage debt has a major impact on our life. While saving is important, it’s also important to make paying down debt one of your priorities,” said Sheehan. Unsurprisingly, one in three Australians who participated in the survey (33 per cent) said they were nervous about their ability to access and manage credit and according to the research, their concerns are justified. Sheehan explained there is a significant lack of consumer understanding about the behaviours that impact creditworthiness, particularly when it comes to savings and superannuation. “Australians are too busy ‘getting by’ to worry about their creditworthiness. Our research shows that Australians are alarmingly misinformed when it comes to credit reports. In overseas markets, consumers are more empowered to take charge of their credit profile, actively manage their credit reputation and use it to get a better deal. In order for this to become the norm here, Australians need to be better informed and more proactive with their credit reputation,” said Sheehan. The new figures show we still have a long way to go. The research shows that only 23 per cent of Australians actually understand what a credit score is and how it is used by lenders to grant credit. Sheehan said comprehensive credit reporting was a step in the right direction as it will encourage people to become more aware of their positioning in the credit landscape. “Comprehensive credit reporting is good news for consumers. The negative credit reporting system doesn’t take good credit behaviour into account. Australians deserve to be recognised for good financial behaviour and this should be reflected in our credit report to enable better deals,” explained Sheehan. Additional findings from the research show: A further 19 per cent of Australians incorrectly believe that having multiple lines of credit open can positively impact their creditworthiness 40 per cent of Australians have up to three lines of credit available to them that they use infrequently 60 per cent of people said their bank is meeting or exceeding their expectations on providing information about their credit profile, compared to just 45 per cent in February 2014 People should also be aware that they can access their credit reports from Experian for free at any time. It is a good idea for them to do this to help prevent identity theft and confirm the accuracy of their credit history. Consumers looking to receive a copy of their free credit report and score can do so by visiting the Experian Credit Services website or for general service enquiries consumers may call Experian Credit Services on 1300 783 684.

Experian’s 34th annual Vision Conference is quickly approaching. This year’s theme of “Think Big: Data, Analytics, Insights, Growth” will be explored through more than 80 breakout sessions with thought-provoking perspectives, best practices and solutions for addressing emerging business issues for clients. Each year, Vision combines in-depth research, cutting-edge technology and expertise from industry leaders to help Experian’s clients strengthen their balance sheets and plan for sustained growth. To help you discover more about Vision 2015, here are a few previews of sessions at this year’s event: FCRA 623 reporting requirements—Are you meeting your obligations as a data furnisher? Learn how to test and sample your data to comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). Understand the customer impacts of reporting and what it means to report accurate and complete consumer credit data. See a demonstration of Experian’s peer benchmarking tools and hear best practices. Insight into a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape for Commercial Lenders As the U.S. economy continues to strengthen, an increased regulatory burden is being placed upon small business lenders. Experian's Government Affairs team will discuss current regulatory trends taking shape in Washington, D.C., and throughout the United States. We will discuss the potential effect it may have on small-business lending, near term. Will EMV Save The World? We will discuss the anticipated rollout of EMV cards in the United States with an eye toward a shift in fraud loss rates and attacks. There will be a review of post-rollout dynamics in regions such as the United Kingdom to provide a bellwether for the United States. Vision 2015 will be held May 3—6 at the Gaylord National Resort in the Washington D.C. area. To register and learn more about Experian’s Vision 2015 Conference click here and follow us on Twitter at @ExperianVision and our LinkedIn Community.

A recent report by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) found that many people are confused and frustrated about how to check credit reports and scores and they feel they lack information to take action to improve their credit histories. I have to admit that I was not surprised by some of the survey’s results, and I suspect my colleagues in financial literacy weren't either. We devote our careers to educating consumers, financial educators and businesses about how to empower people to understand credit and the role it plays in their everyday lives. But it's a steep uphill climb. As a new federal agency, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is a relative newcomer to the financial literacy arena, but many of the people working in its education division have years of knowledge and experience in the field. I've met and worked with a number of them, and I have great respect for the focus they are bringing to such an important issue. Many others — in the public sector like the Federal Trade Commission, and non-profits like the Mission Asset Fund and the Consumer Federation of America's America Saves, and companies like Experian — invest in, conduct and work together on programs with the sole focus of helping people become more financially capable. Together we can make a difference More than 220 million people have credit histories. We want to help every one of them gain the knowledge they need to make their credit reports and credit scores a powerful financial tool. Experian can’t do that alone. The good news is that there are many resources and education materials available for people. It takes all of us working together – private companies, non-profit organizations and the public sector – to get those resources into the hands of the people who need them. We each play a part as an individual consumer, as well. We all need to be actively engaged in seeking information and gaining knowledge. The key to success is simple; as a consumer you need to gain insights and then take action. Each consumer shares the same responsibility as organizations to play an active role in their financial journey and to make understanding their personal finances a priority. Organizations produce an abundance of tools and information and make it available through a wide range of sources. But they can’t force you to take it. In our digital age there is no excuse for not finding the information. All you have to do is enter “credit advice” in the search box. It does take effort to be financially well-rounded and successful. It takes time to invest, plan your retirement, manage your budget and understand your credit. But it is time well spent and you can do it! The challenge: turning insights into action Experian is committed to turning insights into action. That idea is at the core of everything we do. Over the last two decades, Experian has committed to being the consumer’s bureau and championing consumers to help them improve their credit. Almost 20 years ago we launched Ask Experian the industry’s first online credit advice column, and it’s still going strong. Now you can join our weekly #CreditChat and engage directly in conversation. Our company also awards financial literacy grants annually. Experian was one of the founding members of the JumpStart Coalition for Financial Literacy more than 20 years ago. Its primary purpose is to bring together leaders from the public sector, non-profits, private industry and academia to increase consumer financial knowledge — beginning in Kindergarten and continuing through adulthood. Through an Experian financial education grant, the JumpStart Coalition National Financial Educators Conference was launched six years ago. The first of its kind, high school teachers from across the U.S. attend the conference annually and take back what they learn to their districts, teaching fundamental personal finance skills to their students. Our company conducts research to spark innovation in products and services which ultimately help the consumer. Using data for good to spark change At Experian, we seek every opportunity to highlight how data could be used for good. So, to help get you motivated, Experian analysts compiled data to help clarify the traits of someone with outstanding credit as compared to those who could use a little TLC with their credit histories. I challenge you to gain insights that will help you take action and improve your financial capability. 1. Make good credit a habit for the long-term. The longer an account is open and active with an on-time payment history, the more it shows you are a good credit risk. 2. Keep your utilization rate low. To calculate your balance-to-limit ratio, divide the balance by the credit limit for that account. To calculate your total utilization compare your total balances to your total limits. A high utilization rate is a sign that you may be experiencing financial difficulty and is a strong indicator of lending risk. As a result, high utilization hurts credit scores and can cause lenders to be reluctant to extend additional credit. 3. Limit the number of inquiries. An inquiry is a record that your credit report was accessed in response to an application you submitted. Inquiries provide insight into your financial situation that the rest of the report may not. The primary reason inquiries influence credit scores is that they indicate you may have acquired new debt that does not yet appear on your report. Additionally, multiple applications within a short period of time may be a sign that you are having financial difficulties and are seeking credit to stay afloat, or to live beyond your means. Lenders want to be sure you are not in danger of over extending yourself before agreeing to extend additional credit. 4. Keep balances low on credit cards and other "revolving credit." High outstanding debt can affect a credit score. 5. Pay your bills on time. Delinquent payments and collections can have a major negative impact on a credit score. To help raise your credit IQ, visit our Ask Experian column, join our #creditchat or tweet us at @Experian_US to tell us how you are tackling our credit challenge!

As more and more finance apps fill the marketplace, consumers have the opportunity to be increasingly selective with their download choices. App availability is widely accessible to smartphone users, and many users are progressively feeling the need to keep a close tab on their finances when on-the-go, whether away from their home base, or simply in their daily routines between bank visits. When they make the decision to bring a financial app into their device, how do security concerns versus the convenience factor play out? A recent study by Experian explored these decision-making evaluations and the motivations behind them, finding that nearly half of consumers currently use financial apps to gain confidence and control over their financial welfare (46 percent). Four in five of those using apps felt more knowledgeable about their current financial situation since downloading. Respondents also cited secure login protocols and alerts as important features to help them maintain control of their information in the mobile space, whether accessing via smartphone or tablet. Among those with mobile devices (either a smartphone or a tablet), 60 percent currently use them to access their personal financial information in some way, with nearly half – 45 percent – also using the device to learn more about their personal finances or credit. Further, the interest for credit education is real: nearly two in three are interested in learning how to improve their credit. And 90 percent of respondents said that immediate access to apps made them feel more in control of their financial health. “When people know more about credit, that’s power – power to better understand credit and reach their financial goals,” said Guy Abramo, president of Experian Consumer Services. “Since April is National Financial Literacy Month, it’s the perfect reminder to learn more about something that affects our financial lives on a daily basis, namely credit,” continued Abramo. “The survey shows that when people engage with financial apps, including ours, they feel more confident about their financial situation.” The demand for information continues to be strong, especially among those beginning their credit journey: of respondents ages 18-34, at least three in four wanted to know how to improve their financial outlook and how to improve their credit. Check out the full survey: This article is provided for general guidance and information. It is not intended as, nor should it be construed to be, legal, financial or other professional advice. Please consult with your attorney or financial advisor to discuss any legal or financial issues involved with credit decisions.

Experian® has been named the “Organization of the Year” and presented with the Excellence in Financial Literacy Education (EIFLE) Award by the Institute For Financial Literacy during the Annual Conference on Financial Education in San Antonio. “Consumers are at the core of why we are in business. It is our responsibility to be the consumer champion, ensuring people are armed with the right tools and education to help them succeed,” said Craig Boundy, former chief executive officer, Experian North America. “It is a privilege to be among the winners of this prestigious award. Experian remains committed to the pursuit of financial literacy and using data for good to create insightful resources that help consumers take action in their financial lives.” The EIFLE Awards acknowledge innovation, dedication and the commitment of individuals and organizations that support financial literacy education worldwide. The Institute for Financial Literacy established the EIFLE Awards in 2007, and each year it continues to grow. This year’s competition was one of the most diverse, with nominations from around the world. “Experian’s passion and dedication to consumers is very clear through the work and services it provides, and I congratulate its advocacy and distinguished accomplishments,” said John Linfield, executive director of the Institute for Financial Literacy. “It is an honor to recognize those that care so deeply about financial literacy, and it is my sincere hope that through efforts like Experian’s, one day financial literacy education will be ubiquitous in our communities, schools and homes.” The foundation of Experian’s public education and grant programs is built on the principle of maximizing positive impact through strategic outreach and creating education materials at no cost for consumers and professionals who work with underserved audiences. Experian established the industry’s first dedicated consumer-education program more than 20 years ago and has supported the advancement of financial literacy through: Consumer education through Ask Experian, the first financial education advice column in credit reporting Weekly consumer engagement through the #CreditChat, a conversation about personal finance with a panel of experts via Twitter and YouTube Donations to consumers through gifts-in-kind and financial-literacy programs totaling 1 million dollars annually In addition, April is Financial Literacy Month and to support this year’s theme, “Light the Way for Financial Literacy,” Experian created a program with activities and education materials to help financial educators and consumers improve their understanding of credit principles and practices. Please visit the Experian News blog to learn more about activities and new resources launching throughout the month.

Are you in the dark with your finances? Take control this April during Financial Literacy Month and join Experian as we provide education and resources to help light the way to financial literacy. Experian is a long-time advocate for financial education and empowerment for consumers.  As a result, we are teaming with the Jump$tart Coalition® this month to encourage people to take time to think and talk about their own money matters.  We want to encourage people to take full advantage of all of the available resources designed to improve their financial literacy and well-being. “To make true progress in financial literacy, it takes an army of willing and relentless partners to come together for a shared goal of making a brighter financial future for consumers of all ages. From the very beginning, Experian has advocated and committed to be part of the journey to financial literacy.” – Laura Levine, president and CEO of the Jump$tart Coalition for Personal Financial Literacy® To support this year’s initiative, Experian created a program with activities and education materials to help financial educators and consumers improve their understanding of credit principles and practices. Join in all month long for exciting activities created to help guide consumers on their financial journeys: Chat with the experts in the #CreditChat We are passionate about educating consumers all year round and that's why we host our Plutus award–winning #CreditChat on Twitter, accompanied with a Google+ hangout every Wednesday at 3 p.m. Eastern time.  Each week in April we will discuss hot topics in personal finance to help you become more financially capable. April 1: Ways to make Smarter Money Decisions with New York Times columnist Carl Richards and the Jump$tart Coalition. April 8: How to Protect Yourself From Identity Theft featuring Experian’s public-education experts Rod Griffin and Becky Frost. April 15: How to Rebuild and Raise Your Credit Scores with Jeanne Kelly, journalist and nationally recognized voice in credit counseling. April 22: How to Get Financially Ready for College with Wells Fargo and reporter Liz Weston. April 29: Financial Inclusion: Ideas to Help the Underbanked with Operation Hope, the nation’s leading nonprofit social-investment-banking and financial-literacy-empowerment organization on a mission to eradicate poverty. Empowering financial education throughout the country On April 1, 2015, at the Annual Conference on Financial Education in San Antonio, Griffin will discuss the characteristics necessary to become a credit-score superstar and provide an update on credit reporting to financial professionals. Hosted by the National Consumers League on April 17–20, Experian — a longtime supporter — will be on the judging panel for the Lifesmarts competition championship in Seattle. Check out these consumer education resources Visit Experian’s help site for answers to common questions, advice and education about consumer credit. Consumers are welcome to ask their credit questions on our Facebook page at https://facebook.com/ExperianUS. Join the Credit & Finance Talk with Experian on its iHeart Radio show to get the inside scoop on how to live credit-confident with expert interviews, credit information and steps to protect your identity. Search the Jump$tart website for engaging resources available to help introduce children to personal finance. Turning insights into action is at the core of everything Experian does and why we have worked so diligently through our credit education program over the past 20 years — to be a champion for consumer financial literacy.