Your credit score decides whether you get a loan, at what rate, and sometimes whether you get an apartment. The good news: it's more fixable than most people think. Here are the steps that actually move it, in order of impact.
1. Pay on time, every time
Payment history is the single biggest factor. One missed payment can cost dozens of points. Automate at least the minimum payment on every card and loan so a busy month never costs you.
2. Lower your utilisation
Using a high share of your available credit hurts your score even if you pay in full. Aim to keep balances below 30% of your limit — and under 10% if you want the best scores. Paying before the statement date, not just the due date, helps here.
3. Don't close old cards
Length of credit history matters. An old card you rarely use is still quietly helping your score by raising your total available credit and your average account age.
These changes take one to three billing cycles to show up. There is no legitimate overnight fix — anyone promising one is selling something.