Your credit score is more than just a number; it’s a reflection of your financial health. And it’s not private. Many people may be able to see your credit score: bosses, landlords, insurance agents, utility companies, and of course lenders. It showcases whether you are a reliable borrower, which translates directly into lower interest rates, better loan terms, and money back in your pocket.
It’s easy to believe that this three-digit number is out of your reach, but the truth is you have more control than you think. Unfortunately, there are no shortcuts, only consistent, positive habits.
What Makes Up Your Credit Score?
Before you can improve your credit score, you have to understand how it’s calculated. Although there are different types of scoring models, they are all influenced by the same 5 factors.
Payment History (35%)
This is the single most important factor. Everybody wants to see that you have a track record of paying your bills on time. Just one late payment can have a significant negative impact and stay on your credit report for up to 7 years. Not to mention the penalties and interest it will cost you. Payments include credit cards, mortgage, auto loans, student loans, and other types of debt.
Amounts Owed (30%)
This factor gauges how much of your available credit that you are using, also called your credit utilization ratio. Determine your utilization ratio by dividing your balance by your credit limit. For example, if you have a credit card with a $10,000 limit and a balance of $3,000, then your credit utilization ratio is 30%.
The higher your credit utilization, the riskier you appear to borrowers. A utilization ratio of 30% is good, but aim for 10% to maximize your credit score.
Length of Credit History (15%)
The longer your credit history, the better for your credit score. This factor considers the age of all of your accounts, and the average age of all accounts. Because of this, it may be a mistake to close your oldest credit card, even if you don’t use it often.
Credit Mix (10%)
Lenders like to see that you can manage a variety of different types of credit. Having a mix of revolving credit (such as credit cards) and installment loans (like a mortgage or auto loan) showcases your ability to responsibly handle debt. However, if you don’t need a new loan, don’t apply for one just to improve your credit.
New Credit (10%)
How often you apply for credit factors into your credit score. When you apply for a loan or credit card, your score can temporarily dip. After a while your score will bounce back to where it was. If you open several accounts in a short period of time, you may be seen as in high demand for credit, which is a red flag for borrowers.
Building a Better Credit Score
Now that you understand the components, here are concrete steps you can take to build a stronger credit score.
Never Miss a Payment
This is the most important step to increase your credit score. Pay every single bill on time every month. To stay on track, set up automatic payments or put a reminder on your calendar so you never fall behind. If you do fall behind, contact your creditors. They may be willing to work out a payment plan, which is better for your score than letting the bill go to collections.
Lower Your Credit Utilization
Paying down credit card balances can lead to score improvements. As we mentioned earlier, having a credit utilization ratio of 10% is ideal. To meet this goal, consider making a payment to your credit card before you receive your statement. You don’t have to wait for the bill to make a payment, and this can help ensure that a lower balance is reported to the credit bureaus, who track the information included in your credit score.
If you have a good payment history, ask your credit card company for a credit limit increase. A higher limit will instantly lower your utilization rate.
Play the Long Game
A longer credit history has a better impact on your credit score. Keep old credit card accounts open and active to preserve lengthy history. Even if you no longer want to use an old credit card, it’s best to keep it active and use it for small, recurring purchases to keep it from being closed. The long history is valuable.
Be Strategic with New Credit
Every loan application will impact your score, so only apply for new credit when necessary. Avoid impulse applying for credit cards you don’t need, such as store cards at checkout. New credit cards will also lower the average account age.