 TITLE: How Do Down Payments Work? CONTENT: Does a Large Down Payment Offset Bad Credit?\n--------------------------------------------\nIf you have poor credit, it may be possible to persuade a lender to issue you a loan they otherwise wouldn't if you offer a larger down payment than is typically required. Offering to put 25% down on a car, for instance, might sway the finance officer at a car dealership to consider lending you the remaining 75% of the purchase price.\nThere are no guarantees such an approach will work, but it's worth a try if you can afford the down payment and are otherwise disqualified for the loan.\nIf you find your credit is an obstacle to getting credit (or to getting credit at favorable interest rates) another approach to consider is taking steps to improve your credit scores and standing. There are no instant fixes for subpar credit, but taking action today can bring significant improvements in credit scores within a span of six to 12 months.\nIf you're looking for an opportunity to increase FICO® Scores based on your Experian credit data, consider sharing your cellphone and utility payment information via the Experian Boost™† program, so that activity can be reflected in your credit score. END