Make sure to provide supporting documentation, such as identity verification and proof of the error with your dispute letters. You can also contact the lender—they can often update the information directly. Most disputes are resolved (in favor or against) within 30 to 45 days. Credit bureaus will remove errors or negative items that can’t be verified.

#4. Make It A Priority To Pay Past-Due Accounts

Late payments can seriously damage your credit score. If you’re behind on payments, prioritize bringing those accounts up to date. 

Payments reported as 30+ days late can remain on your credit report for up to seven years. Accounts with severe delinquencies, such as those turned over to collections, can hurt your score even more.

If you’re unable to pay in full, consider negotiating a payment plan or requesting a "pay for delete" agreement with creditors. This involves paying the account in exchange for its removal from your credit report. This approach may not always work, but it’s worth considering if you want to fix your credit. 

#5. Consider Raising Your Credit Limits
This can help reduce your credit utilization ratio—the percentage of your available credit that you’re using. 

For example, if your credit limit increases but your spending remains the same, your utilization ratio decreases, which can positively impact your credit score.

#6. Maintain a Low Credit Utilization Rate

Your credit utilization ratio is one of the factors that scoring models rely on to calculate your credit score. Experts recommend keeping this ratio below 30%, with lower being better. 

For example, if you have $20,000 in available credit and owe $5,000, your utilization ratio is 25%. Opening a new credit card can increase your available credit, but avoid overspending to maintain a low utilization rate.

#7. Pay Off High-Interest and New Credit Accounts First

When tackling debt, prioritize accounts with the highest interest rates. This saves you money in the long run. Alternatively, you can pay off accounts with the lowest balances first to eliminate them; this will reduce the number of accounts accruing interest.

#8. Diversify Your Credit Mix

Having a mix of credit types, such as a credit card, mortgage, and car loan, can boost your score. However, only take on new credit if you’re confident in your ability to make timely payments. Try to avoid opening new accounts in a short timeframe.

#9. Improve Credit History by Leaving Old Accounts Open

The age of your credit accounts plays an important role in your credit score. So it is a good idea to keep older credit cards or loan accounts running, even if you don’t use them frequently. Many people make the mistake of abruptly closing several accounts, hoping it’d help get their debt under control.

If the account has an annual fee, consider downgrading to a no-fee option. Removing card details from online accounts and storing physical cards at home can help you avoid unnecessary spending.

#10. Be Cautious About Applying for New Credit

When you apply for credit, the creditor will run a hard inquiry (except when you already have an account with them), which can lower your credit score. 

Too many hard inquiries in a short time can make you seem like a risky borrower, going through a financially turbulent time. So, be mindful of how often you apply for loans or new lines of credit. 

Multiple credit checks for the same kind of loan within a short period are usually counted as a single inquiry. If you truly need new credit, it's best to shop around for the available options, and avoid applying until you find loans you're likely to qualify for.

#11. Set Up Autopay

Payment history accounts for 35% of your FICO score. Setting up autopay ensures you don’t miss due dates. Make sure that you have sufficient funds in your account to avoid overdraft fees.

#12. Use a Credit-Builder Loan

These loans are meant to help people build (if you have little or no credit history) or rebuild credit (if you have a poor credit score). The loan amount is held in a savings account; when you make on-time payments, the activity is reported to credit reporting agencies. Once the loan is repaid, you receive the funds.

#13. Work with a Credit Repair Company

Credit repair companies can help address negative items on your report. However, beware of companies that promise to remove legitimate items or guarantee quick fixes. Ensure the company is reputable before signing up.

If you need assistance to fix your credit, contact AMERICA CREDIT CARE today. We have helped thousands of individuals with personalized and affordable credit repair services.