A new year means new changes! Maybe you’ll be making a move this year, or maybe you’ll want to redo your space – but what happens if you want to make another change down the road? Whether you’re a renter with changing roommates or have a kid with changing tastes, with these tips, you’ll be able to refresh your home with a mind to making easy changes whenever you need to.
1. Check your credit report for errors
Before you can start working on improving your credit score, you need to know what’s on your credit report. You’re entitled to a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus once a year. Review your credit report for errors, such as accounts that aren’t yours or incorrect balances. Dispute any errors you find with the credit bureau.
2. Pay your bills on time
Payment history is one of the most important factors that go into determining your credit score. Late payments can have a negative impact on your credit score, so it’s important to pay all of your bills on time. Set up automatic payments or reminders to help you stay on top of your bills.
3. Keep your credit card balances low
Credit utilization is another important factor that goes into determining your credit score. Credit utilization is the ratio of your credit card balances to your credit limits. The lower your credit utilization, the better your credit score will be. Try to keep your credit card balances as low as possible, and pay off your balances in full every month if you can.
4. Limit new credit applications
Every time you apply for new credit, it results in a hard inquiry on your credit report. Hard inquiries can have a negative impact on your credit score, so try to limit the number of new credit applications you make.
5. Keep your old accounts open
The length of your credit history is another factor that goes into determining your credit score. The longer your credit history, the better your credit score will be. So, try not to close old accounts, even if you’re not using them.
6. Get a secured credit card
The length of your credit history is another factor that goes into determining your credit score. The longer your credit history, the better your credit score will be. So, try not to close old accounts, even if you’re not using them.
7. Dispute your credit report errors
If you have errors on your credit report, you can dispute them with the credit bureau. The credit bureau will investigate your dispute and make any necessary changes to your credit report.
8. Be mindful of your credit score and credit report
Keep an eye on your credit score and credit report. You can get a free credit report once a year from each of the three major credit bureaus. Review your credit report for errors and disputes any errors you find.
In conclusion, improving your credit score takes time and effort. By following the tips outlined above, you can take steps to improve your credit score and make it easier to get approved for credit and loans. Remember to be patient, as it can take several months to see an improvement in your credit score.