1. check your credit reports and score

Before you can start improving your score, it’s good to know where you stand. First, check your credit score. Your bank, credit union or credit card company may offer free access to your credit score as part of their account benefits.

You can also search for free options online. If you have to pay for it, don’t get roped into paying for extra services. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) says you aren’t required to purchase credit protection or other services the company offers.¹

After you’ve viewed your score, look at your credit reports, which are a summary of your personal credit history. You’re entitled to one free report from each of the three reporting agencies per year.

2. stay on top of things

Here’s where you can potentially start improving your score. Make sure you pay your bills on time. Every on-time payment will improve your credit history and may improve your credit score.

Late or missed payments will have a negative impact on your credit score. Set up reminders through your bank or set up automatic payments on your credit accounts to help you make them on time.

Stick with paying down the credit accounts you already have and don’t apply for a new card or a loan. Those count as hard inquiries into your credit and may lower your score. If you don’t use old accounts, don’t close them – your credit score may benefit from having a longer credit history.

Your credit utilization rate (CUR) is a big part of your credit score, too. Your CUR is the percentage of revolving credit you’re currently using, so keep balances low if you can.

3. be patient

It’d be great if there was a magic shortcut to improving your credit score, but the reality is that it takes time. Be patient and remember to stay positive.

Remember to keep monitoring your credit score and credit report. Make on-time payments, keep credit account balances low and avoid opening new credit accounts.

Do all these things, and over time you may just see an improvement to your credit score.

¹https://www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/where-can-i-get-my-credit-score-en-316/