What Makes Up Your Credit Score?
Understanding these factors is the first step to improving your score.
35%
of your score
Payment History
Your track record of paying bills on time
Set up autopay for minimum paymentsUse calendar remindersContact creditors before missing a payment
30%
of your score
Credit Utilization
How much of your available credit you use
Keep utilization under 30%Pay down balances before statement dateRequest credit limit increases
15%
of your score
Credit Age
How long you've had credit accounts
Keep old accounts openBecome an authorized user on old accountsBe patient — time helps
10%
of your score
Credit Mix
Variety of credit types (cards, loans, etc.)
Consider a credit-builder loanOnly open new accounts when neededMix of installment and revolving credit
10%
of your score
New Credit
Recent credit applications and accounts
Space out credit applicationsLimit hard inquiriesRate shop within a short window
Paths to Better Credit
Choose the approach that fits your situation.
Secured Credit Cards
Build credit with a small deposit that becomes your credit limit.
Best for: Building credit from scratch or rebuilding
Credit Builder Loans
Small loans designed specifically to help you build payment history.
Best for: Adding installment credit to your mix
Authorized User
Get added to a trusted person's credit card to benefit from their history.
Best for: Quickly adding credit history
Quick Tips to Improve Your Score
Check your credit report for errors and dispute any inaccuracies
Pay all bills on time — even a single late payment can hurt your score
Keep credit card balances low relative to your limits
Don't close old credit cards — they help your credit age
Limit applications for new credit to avoid multiple hard inquiries
Consider a credit monitoring service to track your progress
How Long Does Improvement Take?
Credit improvement is a journey, not a sprint. Here's a realistic timeline:
1-2 months
Pay down balances, fix errors
See initial changes
3-6 months
Consistent on-time payments
Meaningful improvement
6-12 months
Maintain good habits
Significant score increase