- 1). File your credit card statements and other bills in a folder or cabinet until it's time to submit payment. Open statements upon arrival to learn the due date, and then write the date on a calender to avoid missed payments.
- 2). Start paying your bills on time. Missed payments can damage your credit rating. Begin submitting payments on time to fix your credit file and demonstrate creditworthiness. Mail payments within days of receiving the statement, if possible.
- 3). Maintain low credit card balances. Have self-control and reserve credit cards for emergencies. Aim to pay off new charges at the end of each month, and develop a plan to eliminate or pay down your existing debts. Adopt a frugal attitude or look for ways to generate extra income.
- 4). Don't open too many credit accounts. Credit inquiries or applications also can bring down your credit score. Only apply for credit when absolutely necessary, and refuse offers for retail charge cards.
- 5). Pay your utilities on time. Failure to pay a utility bill can result in a negative remark on your credit report, which lowers your score. Submit these payments on time, or work out a payment arrangement if unable to send funds by the due date.
- 6). Negotiate the removal of collection accounts. Paying off a collection account doesn't automatically eliminate the negative remark from your credit report. Contact the reporting creditor upon paying the balance in full, and ask to have the remark deleted. The creditor may grant your request.
- 7). Analyze your credit report. Develop a routine of ordering and examining your credit report once a year to check for mistakes or discrepancies. Obtain free reports from AnnualCreditReport.com.
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