Your credit score is one of the most important numbers in your financial life. It affects your ability to get approved for loans, rent an apartment, and even land a job in some cases. The higher your credit score, the more financial opportunities you’ll have, often at better interest rates. Fortunately, improving your credit score doesn’t have to be difficult or overwhelming. With a few simple strategies, you can boost your score and set yourself up for financial success.

In this guide, we’ll explore easy ways to improve your credit score, breaking down actionable steps you can take today.

1. Pay Your Bills on Time

One of the easiest ways to improve your credit score is to make sure you’re paying all your bills on time. Payment history accounts for about 35% of your credit score, so late or missed payments can have a significant negative impact. To avoid missed payments, consider setting up automatic payments or using a calendar reminder. Even if you can only make the minimum payment, it’s better than paying nothing at all.

2. Keep Your Credit Utilization Low

Credit utilization is the amount of credit you’re using compared to your credit limit. It’s recommended to keep your credit utilization ratio below 30%, but for the best results, aim for below 10%. For example, if you have a credit card with a $1,000 limit, try not to carry a balance higher than $300. If you’re currently above this threshold, focus on paying down your balances to help boost your score. You can also ask for a credit increase to improve your ratio – as long as it won’t tempt you to put more on your credit card.

3. Check Your Credit Report Regularly

Mistakes on your credit report can drag your score down, so it’s essential to check your credit report regularly. By law, you’re entitled to one free credit report each year from the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. You can access them through AnnualCreditReport.com. Look for errors such as accounts that don’t belong to you or incorrect late payments, and dispute any mistakes you find.

4. Don’t Close Old Accounts

The length of your credit history also affects your credit score. This is why it’s a good idea to keep older accounts open, even if you no longer use them. Closing an old credit card can shorten your credit history and raise your credit utilization ratio if you still carry balances on other cards. If there’s no annual fee, it’s generally better to leave old accounts open.

5. Limit New Credit Applications

Each time you apply for new credit, whether it’s a credit card or loan, the lender will do a hard inquiry on your credit report. Too many hard inquiries in a short period can lower your credit score. If you’re shopping around for a loan, try to do all your applications within a short window (typically 14 to 45 days), as credit scoring models will often group these as a single inquiry.

6. Become an Authorized User

If you have a family member or close friend with a good credit score, ask if you can be added as an authorized user on one of their credit cards. This allows their positive payment history and credit limit to appear on your credit report, which can help improve your score. However, be sure the primary account holder continues to manage the account responsibly, as any negative activity will also impact your credit.

7. Settle Any Outstanding Debts

Unpaid debts that have gone to collections can hurt your credit score for years. If you have accounts in collections, try to negotiate with creditors to settle the debt. In some cases, creditors may agree to a payment plan or settle the debt for less than what you owe. Once settled, the account will be marked as paid, which can help improve your score over time.

8. Use a Secured Credit Card

If you’re struggling with a low credit score or have no credit history, a secured credit card can be a good option to build or rebuild credit. Secured cards require a cash deposit, which serves as your credit limit. Using a secured card responsibly, making payments on time, and keeping your balance low can gradually improve your credit score.

9. Diversify Your Credit Mix

Lenders like to see that you can responsibly manage different types of credit. Your credit mix—whether you have credit cards, installment loans, or other types of credit—accounts for about 10% of your score. If you only have credit cards, consider taking out a small personal loan or car loan, and make regular payments. This variety can give your score a small boost.

10. Avoid Credit Repair Scams

If you’re looking for help improving your credit score, be cautious of companies that promise quick fixes. Many credit repair companies charge high fees and may not deliver results. Instead, focus on the proven strategies outlined in this article. If you need assistance, look for reputable non-profit credit counseling services that offer free or low-cost help.

Improving your credit score takes time and effort, but it’s entirely within reach if you follow these simple steps. Pay your bills on time, keep your balances low, check your credit report regularly, and be strategic about applying for new credit. Remember, building a solid credit score is about responsible financial habits over the long term. With patience and consistency, you’ll see your score rise, opening up more financial opportunities in the future.

For more information on credit management and related topics, check out these helpful resources: