If you are fortunate enough to have a positive credit rating, then you deserve a great deal of

If you are fortunate enough to have a positive credit rating, then you deserve a great deal of praise and recognition. Thousands of people struggle to attain a respectable credit rating, often losing the battle and succumbing to the world of derogatory credit. Credit repair agencies and bankruptcy lawyers are making substantial amounts of money from individuals attempting to attain much-needed debt relief.

So, obviously you've been vigilant and responsible, which has helped you to get your credit in the good condition it's in. Always remember, though, that a financial disaster can occur at any time, causing you to become behind on bills, resulting in your credit score plummeting. By following these tips below, you can ensure that you maintain your positive credit rating and never have to worry about experiencing the embarrassment and indignity of living with bad credit.

Tip # 1 - Keep emergency money in the bank - Even if you've been at your job for numerous years, never become so comfortable that you think it will always be there. Things happen, and in the current economy, they can happen suddenly - even to companies that have been in business for years. It's always a good idea to have enough money in the bank in case you were to unexpectedly lose your job. It's wise to have at least enough money to cover 3-6 months of normal living expenses, if not more. You never know how long it would take to acquire new employment, if something were to happen to your current job, and you wouldn't want to jeopardize your credit by being unable to keep up with payments.

Tip# 2 - Don't bite off more than you can chew - Sure, your credit is great now, but beware of applying for too many credit cards or credit accounts. It may be easy to be approved for the accounts, but what happens if you become unable to pay everything for some reason? Don't try to live like a king if you can't afford to, just because your credit is good. Remember, anyone can get approved for a house or car, but it isn't yours until it's completely paid off. If you can't maintain payments, then the bank will repossess your car or foreclose on your home. So, apply for credit wisely.

Tip # 3 - Use your credit cards every month - Even if your credit cards have a zero balance and you would like to keep it that way, using each card to make small purchases is a good idea. You want to demonstrate that you can use and responsibly handle credit on a regular basis. Even if you merely charge an inexpensive pair of shoes, purchase gas, etc, it only helps to keep your credit score high.

Tip # 4 - Don't co-sign for friends or family -This tip applies to friends, family members, and even your children or grandchildren. This may sound harsh, but if you want to maintain your excellent credit rating, then you should not do this. Sure, if you've got the money to pay in case the person can't, go for it, but most people don't. Co-signers usually only try to help out a loved one in need of a car, house, or loan, but often end up owing thousands of dollars that they can't afford to pay. Teach your children proper money management from an early age so they won't need to come to you with a request to co-sign for a loan, and tell others that you're sorry, but you just can't risk it. Your children may be angry with you in the beginning, but as they grow older, they will realize the value of good credit and how difficult it is to obtain and maintain it.

As you probably know, credit is a privilege, and if you want to keep yours as good as it currently is, then it may take a little bit of effort on your part. Good credit isn't something that's just handed to us on a platter, and must be earned the hard way. Despite the hard work involved, though, in the end, most people would agree that it's very well worth the hassle to experience the pride of having good credit.