Better credit starts with a clear next step.
See what shapes your credit, which actions can help, and where to focus first.
What's your biggest credit goal?
Start with what you're trying to accomplish. We'll help you explore the strategies most commonly used for your goal.
Proven ways to improve your credit
Start with the actions that have the biggest impact on your credit over time.
Build a record of on-time payments.
Using less of your available credit can help your score.
Find and dispute information that is wrong.
What has the biggest impact on your credit score?
Not every factor carries the same weight. Here's roughly how the major scoring models weigh them.
| Factor | Typical impact |
|---|---|
| Payment history | 35% |
| Credit utilization | 30% |
| Length of credit history | 15% |
| New credit | 10% |
| Credit mix | 10% |
Other ways to build your credit
Your next step depends on what is holding your credit back.
| Option | May help when | |
|---|---|---|
| Limit new credit applications | You are thinking about applying for several new accounts. | |
| Keep older accounts open | You want to preserve a longer credit history and available credit. | |
| Become an authorized user | You have a thin or limited credit file. | Learn More |
| Use a secured credit card | You need a way to build or rebuild payment history. | Learn More |
| Try a credit-builder loan | You want to build payment history without needing money upfront. | Learn More |
Applying for a credit card usually triggers a hard inquiry, which may lower your score. Check your credit and choose carefully before applying.
Common questions about improving your credit
How long does it take to improve my credit score?+
Utilization changes can show up within a single billing cycle. Payment history takes longer, months of on-time payments, and negative marks fade over years rather than weeks.
What's the fastest way to raise my score?+
Lower your credit utilization. Pay your card balances below 30% of your limits, or lower if you can. It's the biggest factor you can change quickly.
Does checking my own credit hurt my score?+
No. Checking your own report is a soft inquiry and never affects your score. Only hard inquiries from new credit applications do, and only slightly.
Should I close old credit cards?+
Usually not. Closing a card lowers your total available credit (raising utilization) and can shorten your average account age. Both work against you.
Answer a few questions and we'll point you to the credit move that fits your situation.