Improve Your Credit

Build payment-history momentum

• Set up autopay for at least the minimum on every account
• Use calendar reminders for accounts you pay manually
• Bring any past-due account current as soon as possible

Lower your reported utilization

Reported utilization is usually based on the balance on your statement closing date. Paying before the statement closes can lower the balance reported to the bureaus.

• Aim to keep each card under 30% of its limit, and ideally under 10%
• Make a mid-cycle payment if balances are climbing
• Request a credit limit increase only if it will not trigger a hard inquiry

Protect your credit age

Closing old accounts can lower your average account age over time. Consider keeping older, no-fee accounts open with a small recurring charge.

Be selective with new credit

Each new application can produce a hard inquiry and lower your average account age. Use prequalification tools (which use soft inquiries) when comparing options.