Your credit score is based on the information in your credit reports, so mistakes can drag your score down. Get your free credit reports from AnnualCreditReport.com and go through them carefully. If you spot any errors—like accounts you don't recognize or incorrect balances—dispute them immediately. Credit bureaus are required to investigate and correct mistakes, and this alone can give your score a quick boost.

Your payment history is the biggest factor in your credit score, making up 35% of it. Even one late payment can hurt your score, so set up automatic payments or reminders to stay on track. If you're behind on bills, call your creditors and ask for a payment plan to get back on track.

Your credit utilization ratio (how much of your available credit you're using) makes up 30% of your score. The lower it is, the better. Aim to keep your balances below 30% of your credit limits—ideally under 10% for the best results. If you can't pay them off all at once, make extra payments when possible.

A simple way to improve your credit utilization is to ask for a higher credit limit. If your credit card issuer agrees, your total available credit goes up while your balance stays the same, improving your utilization ratio. Just don't use the extra credit to rack up more debt!

Most rent and utility payments don't automatically show up on your credit report, but you can change that. Services like Experian Boost and RentReporters can add these payments, helping you build credit history without taking on new debt. Some are free, while others charge a small fee.

If you have a family member or friend with good credit, ask if they'll add you as an authorized user on their credit card. You don't even have to use the card—just being added can help improve your credit by increasing your credit history and available credit.

If you don't qualify for a regular credit card, a secured card can help you build credit. You'll need a deposit (which acts as your credit limit), but responsible use can help you graduate to an unsecured card over time.

Retail store credit cards are often easier to get approved for than traditional cards. They typically have lower limits and higher interest rates, so only use them if you can pay off the balance in full each month.

Many credit unions offer credit builder loans, where the lender holds your loan amount in a savings account while you make payments. Once the loan is paid off, you get access to the money, and your on-time payments help build your credit.

If you need a loan but don't qualify on your own, a co-signer with good credit can help you get approved. Just be sure to make every payment on time—if you don't, your co-signer's credit will take a hit, too.

More income means more opportunities to pay down debt and avoid missed payments. Look for side gigs, freelance work, or part-time jobs to bring in extra cash and put it toward your credit card balances.

An emergency fund helps you avoid relying on credit cards when unexpected expenses pop up. Even saving a few dollars a week can help you stay out of debt and keep your credit in good shape.

Every time you apply for credit, a hard inquiry appears on your credit report. Too many hard inquiries can lower your score. Only apply for new credit when absolutely necessary.

Length of credit history is a factor in your score, so don't close old accounts unless necessary. Even if you don't use an old credit card, keeping it open (especially if it has a good payment history) can help your score.

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