How to Take Smart Steps to Secure a Great Credit Score

Your credit score is like your financial passport—it determines how easily you can get approved for loans, credit cards, apartments, and even some jobs. Here’s how to keep it strong and climbing.

1. Master Your Credit Card Accounts

• Log in online. If you haven’t already, set up online access for each credit card you own.

• Link your bank account. This allows you to make fast payments and avoid late fees.

• Set up autopay for the minimum. This one move helps you avoid payment “dings” that can tank your score.

• Pay down early and often. Don’t wait for your statement—make payments throughout the month. Keeping balances near zero is the secret sauce for a great score, especially before applying for new credit.

  
  

2. Choose the Right Credit Cards

• Avoid store-only cards unless there’s a very good reason.

• Skip low-limit cards unless you can’t qualify for higher limits elsewhere.

• Look for cash-back rewards. Cash doesn’t lose value like points can.

• Avoid annual fees unless the perks clearly outweigh the cost.

  
  

3. Keep Your Credit Utilization Low

The ratio of your balances to your total credit limit is a huge factor in your score.

• Example: Five cards with $20k each = $100k total limit. If you owe $1,000, that’s just 1% usage—great for your score.

• The lower the percentage, the better. Aim for close to 0%.

  
  

4. Play the Long Game With Accounts

• Don’t close old cards unless necessary—account age boosts your score.

• Use each card occasionally so the issuer doesn’t close it for inactivity.

• Only apply for new cards sparingly—space applications at least six months apart.

  
  

5. Before Applying for a Large Loan (Home, Auto, etc.)

If you’re about to seek a major loan, your credit score will be under the microscope. Here’s how to make it shine:

• Don’t apply for any new credit cards in the months leading up to your application—hard inquiries can drag your score down at the worst time.

• Go online and pay down all current credit card balances early—before they even appear on your statement—so lenders see minimal debt when they check your report. This often means logging in mid-cycle and making payments manually instead of waiting for your due date.

• Use only one credit card during this period and keep the rest unused. This keeps your utilization low and your report cleaner.

  
  

6. Negotiate With Your Credit Card Companies

• Ask for a lower APR—especially if you’ve been a good customer.

• Request a credit limit increase to improve utilization ratios. This works best if your income has risen since you opened the account.

  
  

7. Put All Loans on Autopay

• Use your bank’s bill pay to stay in control.

• If needed, set up lender-controlled autopay (sometimes they offer a rate discount).

• Never miss a payment—it’s one of the most damaging things for your score.

  
  

8. Monitor Your Credit Reports

• Check your Experian® report and FICO® score monthly.

• Review Equifax® and TransUnion® periodically for accuracy.

• Dispute any incorrect information immediately.

  
  

Bottom line: Build habits that prevent mistakes, keep your balances low, and maximize your credit limits. And if you’re gearing up for a big loan, fine-tune your credit profile in advance—especially by paying down balances online before they hit your statements. These simple, consistent steps will keep your credit score strong—and your financial opportunities wide open.