How To Improve Credit Score Fast

By: Robert Hosler

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Here is some great news; it is relatively easy to learn how to improve your credit score fast.  Believe it or not, even if your credit score sits some where in the 400 to 500 range, you can quickly and easily improve your credit score.  Of course there is no miracle cure all, and a great credit score takes time along with a history of reliability.  However, there still is no reason why you can not improve your score by a hundred points in less than a year’s time.

  1. To improve a credit score fast, you first need to know where it stands.  This is a relatively easy thing to do.  You are entitled to one free credit report every year from each of the three major credit reporting bureaus.  You can easily request a report by visiting one of these bureaus online.  Because you can receive a free report from each bureau every year, try requesting a report from an alternating source every four months.  This allows you to keep an up to date and current eye on your credit score. 
  2. Once you receive your report take note of any discrepancies.  It is possible that something may have been reported falsely, or someone may have illegally charged something in your name.  If you take an issue with a charge, then ask the issuing lender for proof of this charge.  You can do this in writing, and if they do not respond or have no proof, they are required, by law, to remove this charge from your credit report. 
  3. Pay down one bill at a time.  The difference between available credit and credit owed is a huge factor in your credit score.  Specifically focus on one credit card or other line of credit, and attempt to lower what you owe.  The more available credit you have, the quicker your credit score will improve. 
  4. Close unnecessary credit cards.  While have a lot of available credit is good, too many credit cards are bad.  If you want to improve a credit score fast, then you might need to close a few lines of credit.  Basically, try to limit your credit cards to three.  Get rid of those department store and gas cards. 
  5. Stop applying for lines of credit.  If you really hope to improve your credit score fast, you are going to need to stop applying for credit cards and other credit lines.  If you have too many companies checking your credit score, it will lower your credit rating. 
  6. Get rid of your delinquent accounts.  Having delinquent accounts is horrible for your credit score.  By paying these off and becoming current with your lenders, you can hope to improve your credit score fast. 
Posted on: Aug. 19, 2010