Frequently asked questions
Honest answers are part of credit education. If your question isn't here, ask us during your consultation.
Getting started
Does speaking with you affect my credit score?
No. Talking with us, or reviewing your own credit report, counts as a “soft” check, and soft checks never affect your score. A “hard” inquiry only happens when you apply for new credit and a lender pulls your report.
What do I need to bring to my first consultation?
Not much. If you have a recent copy of your credit report, bring it. If you don't, we'll show you how to get it for free directly from Equifax or TransUnion, and we can review it together.
It also helps to bring a general idea of your monthly income, your bills and any debts you're working on, plus your goals, whether that's buying a home, getting approved for a car or just understanding your score. Most importantly, bring your questions. Nothing you share is judged.
Do I need bad credit to work with you?
Not at all. Many of our clients are building credit for the first time, are new to Canada, or want to keep good credit strong before a big purchase.
How much does your service cost?
It depends on your situation and the service you need. In your first consultation, we review your credit and explain your options and costs clearly, with no pressure and no hidden fees.
Credit repair
How long does the credit repair process usually take?
It depends on your credit profile and your goals. If there are errors on your report, the credit bureaus generally investigate disputes within about 30 days, so corrections can show up fairly quickly. Rebuilding a strong score usually takes several months of consistent habits.
After reviewing your report, we'll give you a realistic timeline for your situation, not a one-size-fits-all promise.
Can you remove accurate but negative information from my report?
No, and no one legitimately can. Accurate information, like a late payment, generally stays on your Canadian credit report for about six years.
What we can do is help you dispute anything inaccurate or outdated, and build positive history so the negatives matter less over time. Be cautious of any company that promises otherwise.
Will checking my credit report hurt my score?
No, and this is one of the biggest myths we hear. Checking your own report is a soft inquiry and never affects your score, no matter how often you check.
Reviewing your report regularly helps you catch errors, spot signs of identity theft early and track your progress. We recommend checking at least once a year, and more often if you're rebuilding or preparing for a big purchase.
Homes, newcomers & workshops
Can you help me get ready for a mortgage?
Yes. We review your credit the way a lender would, explain what's affecting your approval, and help you strengthen your profile before you apply. Starting a few months ahead gives you the most room to improve.
Can you help if I'm new to Canada with no credit history?
Absolutely. It's one of the most common situations we see, and one of the easiest to turn around. Your credit history from your home country usually doesn't transfer here, so almost everyone starts from zero. That isn't bad credit. It's a blank page.
We'll walk you through how the Canadian credit system works, the safest first steps, like choosing the right starter card and using it correctly, and the habits that build a strong score.
Do you offer workshops for schools and groups?
Yes. We run digital and kiosk-based credit workshops for colleges, universities, student associations and community groups. Visit our workshops page to request one.