ALL THE THINGS LENDERS REALLY CHECK MORE THAN JUST A CREDIT SCORE
When you apply for a loan or credit card, it’s easy to assume your credit report tells the whole story. But honestly, that’s only one piece of the puzzle. Behind the scenes, lenders are looking at other details, and those can matter just as much, if not more. Here’s something that catches people off guard: The credit score you see might not be the one your lender uses. Different lenders pull reports from different credit bureaus, and many rely on customized scoring models made for their industry. That means the “good” score you see on a free app might not match a lender's number. Lenders also look at how steady your income is and how much debt you carry compared to what you earn. You could have a perfect payment history but raise red flags if your debt-to-income ratio is too high. And the kind of credit you’re applying for makes a difference, too. For instance, a mortgage or auto loan gets more scrutiny than a store credit card. Other behind-the-scenes factors also matter. Some lenders track how often you apply for new credit. If it looks like you’ve been applying everywhere, that can make them nervous. A few lenders even use internal data based on your history with them, and those things never show up in your credit report.
It’s not always obvious how much weight these things carry, but they help explain why someone with a solid score might still be denied. Your credit report matters. But so do your habits, your consistency, and the bigger story your finances tell. If you’re considering borrowing, it’s worth looking at the whole picture. Clean up your credit, yes — but also take stock of your income, budget, and how you manage what you already have.
Avoid These Costly Mistakes That Could Kill Your Claim THE TOP 5 ERRORS THAT COULD DESTROY YOUR WORKERS’ COMP CASE BEFORE IT STARTS
5.
GOING IT ALONE WITHOUT A LAWYER Workers’ comp law can be complex, and employers have professionals working to protect their interests. An experienced attorney understands the system, knows how to negotiate with the BWC and TPAs, and can fight to get you the maximum benefits. Many firms, including ours, work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless you win.
Getting hurt at work can turn your entire life upside down in an instant. One moment, you’re going through your regular routine, and the next, you’re facing doctor visits, time off the job, and an avalanche of paperwork you never expected. In the middle of that chaos, it’s easy to make choices, sometimes small ones, that can have costly consequences for your workers’ compensation claim. Knowing the most common pitfalls can help you protect your rights and get the benefits you deserve.
Likewise, not following your doctor’s orders can make the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) doubt your claim. Attend every appointment, follow the prescribed plan, and keep records of your progress. OVERSHARING WITH THE EMPLOYER’S THIRD-PARTY ADMINISTRATOR (TPA) Remember, the TPA works for your employer, not you. Anything you say can be used to reduce or deny your benefits. If you must speak with them, stick to the basics like when and where the injury happened, which body parts were affected, and any witnesses. Avoid discussing your recovery progress, pain levels, or past injuries. SIGNING PAPERS WITHOUT LEGAL GUIDANCE Settlement agreements and claim forms can have long-term consequences. Once you sign, your claim could be closed for good even if you need more treatment later. Have an experienced workers’ comp attorney review anything before you sign.
3.
If you’ve been injured on the job, you don’t have to navigate the process alone. Contact our firm today to safeguard your rights and give your claim the best possible chance for success.
1.
WAITING TOO LONG TO REPORT YOUR INJURY
Even though Ohio law gives you time to file a claim, delaying your report can hurt your case. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to prove your injury was work-related. Reporting promptly in writing creates a clear record and shows you’re taking the injury seriously from the start. SKIPPING MEDICAL CARE If you don’t seek treatment right away, it can look like your injury isn’t serious.
4.
2.
2 monastlaw.com
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator