Trying to raise your credit score in a hurry is tricky. It can often take weeks or months for something to affect your score, which makes it a “hurry up and wait” type of situation. (more…)
“Increasing your credit scores takes time,” according to Experian, one of the three major credit-reporting bureaus. “The more serious your credit challenges, the longer it will take.”
But what if you need quick results? Maybe you’re getting a car loan or picking up a mortgage in the near future and you simple can’t wait it out.
Don’t give up hope just yet.
Fortunately, there are some ways to give your credit score a boost that could potentially get the job done faster.
Try the four hacks mentioned in the infographic below in order to potentially raise your credit score fast:
More tips to bump up your credit score
It’s important to remember that increasing your credit score is marathon, not a sprint. And there are some additional steps you can take in order to maintain a healthy credit score for the long haul. Stick to these three credit best practices, and you’ll gradually improve your score.
1. Make your payments on time
Making on-time payments is one of the most important factors in keeping your credit score on the higher side. It’s beneficial to set up automatic payment reminders so that you can stay on top of payments each month.
2. Don’t open too many credit card accounts
Opening a number of new credit accounts just to increase your available credit can be a bad plan. In fact, it can actually backfire and lower your credit score. “Don’t open accounts just to have a better credit mix. It probably won’t improve your credit score,” Experian warns.
3. Pay more than the monthly minimum
This goes along with reducing your debt. By paying more than the monthly minimum, you keep your balances low and your credit score high. Aim to keep your credit utilization ratio below 35%.
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