How Do I Improve My Credit Score?

Several Steps Add Up to a Better Credit Score

Start by correcting any errors in the credit report. Then develop an action plan to pay down your debt.

Follow these steps to improve your credit score so that you can be a better credit bet.

• First, review your credit report and take steps to fix any mistakes you find. See "How Do I Correct My Credit Report Inaccuracies"
• Make all payments promptly. This will keep new negative items from appearing on your account.
• Pay down your existing credit balances.
• Do not add new accounts in order to lower balances on old accounts.
• Do not close long-term accounts
• Establish new credit, but only if you have little or no existing credit history.
• Use automatic payment plans or set up a bill paying calendar to ensure that you pay all your bills on time.
• Develop a written plan to correct any negative item(s) that are affecting your score. Specify what you have to do and how you will know that you have fixed the problem.