Consumers have been advised that to ensure they can make successful credit applications, they must maintain their credit rating, something a prepaid credit card could help to achieve.
Moneysupermarket.com listed a number of actions people should take to increase their chances of being successful, which includes not "maxing out cards".
This happens when consumers succumb to the temptation to spend up to their credit limit and it suggests to future possible lenders that the borrower is "under financial stress".
It may also indicate a lack of discipline and a tendency of the borrower to go on uncontrolled spending sprees.
A prepaid card works by only allowing the holder to spend as much as they load up online on each occasion. As long as this is maintained on a sustainable basis - where everything can be paid off - it could help build up and bolster a credit rating.
Indeed, another of Moneysupermarket's tips is that card holders should make sure they maintain their payments. It stated: "Paying bills on time shows a lender that you are able to manage your finances effectively, even if it's just the minimum amount."
Only using a card to an extent that enables the amount to be paid off in full can provide a very positive picture about one's credit rating. It also, the website noted, avoids the potential black marks when a payment is late or missed.
There are other ways in which Moneysupermarket noted people can help themselves, such as closing down unused cards, as these can show up on a file and make it look like the applicant is trying to build up too large a base of credit. Simply cutting up cards will not do - the accounts must be formally closed. Another important move is to get registered to vote, as this provides extra proof of settled residence.
Taking steps to improve one's credit situation is something many people resolve to do, in order to improve their finances in the new year, particularly after an expensive Christmas period.
But a survey by Skipton Building Society recently revealed that by early May, most people have abandoned their new year resolutions.
However, those who do ensure they carry out their financial plans for the year will find it "makes every situation easier to cope with," according to head of corporate communications at the mutual Tracy Fletcher.
