Unlike trying to lose weight, credit scores tend to drop fast and increase slowly. Your credit score can make or break your financial goals- like buying a home. The good news is that you don’t have to be a financial expert to improve your credit score. Here are five simple steps you can take today to start raising that number.

1. Keep Revolving Balances Low

One of the more significant factors affecting your credit score is called your credit utilization ratio. This simply means the percentage of available credit on a revolving credit card. Aim to use 30% or less of your total available limits. And remember, more available credit is always better.

2. Always Pay Your Bills On Time

I know that sounds simple, but I can’t stress this enough- be sure you NEVER miss a payment. Your payment history accounts for around 35% of your credit score. A single missed payment or late payment can tank your score quickly and stay on your report for up to 7 years.

Set yourself up for success: Use autopay, set reminders or sync due dates with your payday. Whatever it takes, make on-time payments non-negotiable.

3. Deal With Collections

Got accounts in collections? Don’t ignore them. Work with the collections department to pay off the balance- sometimes you can even negotiate a lower payoff if you are able to pay it off at once. Contact the collector, negotiate a fair settlement, and always obtain proof the debt has been paid in full. A “paid collection” is better than leaving it unpaid.

4. Establish Credit

No credit? Here are some ways to establish some credit history:

• Become an authorized user on a responsible family member’s credit card.
• Apply for a low-limit revolving card with your bank or credit union (aim for at least a $1,000 limit, if possible) and make sure to pay it off every month!
• Consider secured credit cards if you’re just starting out.

These are low-risk ways to start building a positive credit profile.

5. Ask for a Credit Limit Increase

If you have good credit but your FICO score just doesn’t seem to get above 700, ask your current revolving creditors if they will raise your credit limits. This may sound counterintuitive, but asking for a higher credit limit can improve your credit utilization ratio as long as you don’t increase your spending.

Heads-up: There may be a temporary dip in your score due to the inquiry from your credit card company, but in the long run it can work in your favor.

Final Thoughts

Improving your credit score doesn’t happen overnight. It’s all about consistent, smart financial behavior. Following these five strategies can help build a stronger credit profile that opens more doors and saves you money in the long run!

✅ Quick Recap:

• Keep balances under 30%
• Pay every bill on time
• Pay off collections
• Establish new credit smartly
• Increase your credit limits carefully