Your credit score is a crucial financial indicator that lenders use to assess your creditworthiness. A healthy credit score can open doors to better loan terms, lower interest rates and increased financial opportunities. To ensure your credit score remains in good shape, consider this checklist for a credit score health check.
- Review your credit report
Obtain a copy of your credit report from a reputable credit reporting agency. Review it carefully to identify any errors, inaccuracies or fraudulent activities. Dispute any incorrect information promptly
to maintain the accuracy of your credit report. - Pay bills on time
Timely payment of bills is a significant factor in determining your credit score. Set up payment
reminders, automate payments or create a budgeting system to ensure you never miss a payment. Late payments can negatively impact your credit score, so prioritise prompt payment of
all your financial obligations. - Manage credit card balances
Keep your credit card balances low and aim to repay the full balance each month. High credit card
utilisation, or the ratio of your credit card balance to your credit limit, can negatively impact your credit score. Strive to keep your credit card utilisation below 30% to maintain a healthy credit score. - Limit credit applications
Be selective when applying for new credit. Each time you apply for credit, a hard inquiry is added to your credit report and can temporarily lower your credit score. Minimise unnecessary credit applications and only apply for credit when necessary. - Diversify your credit mix
Having a diverse mix of credit types can positively impact your credit score. Consider having a
combination of credit cards, loans and other forms of credit. However, only take on credit that you can manage responsibly and comfortably repay.
- Lengthen your credit history
The length of your credit history is a factor considered in calculating your credit score. Aim to
maintain older credit accounts, even if they have a zero balance. Closing old accounts can shorten
your credit history and potentially lower your credit score. - Monitor your credit utilisation
Regularly review and manage your credit utilisation ratio. Ideally, keep your total outstanding balances well below your available credit limits. High credit utilisation can signal financial strain and may negatively impact your credit score. Remember to aim for that 30% or less credit card utilisation. - Utilise credit monitoring services
Consider subscribing to credit monitoring services that provide regular updates on your credit score
and notify you of any significant changes or potential fraud. Being proactive and promptly addressing any issues that arise can help protect your credit score. - Avoid collections and delinquencies
Defaulting on payments or having accounts sent to collections can significantly damage your credit
score. Prioritise meeting your financial obligations and seek assistance if you’re experiencing financial difficulties to avoid negative marks on your credit report. - Seek professional guidance
If you’re facing credit challenges or want personalised support on improving your credit score, consult with a reputable credit counselling agency. They can provide guidance on debt management, credit repair strategies and steps to improve your creditworthiness.
Maintaining a healthy credit score requires ongoing attention and responsible financial habits. By following this credit score health checklist, you can proactively manage your credit, protect your credit worthiness and potentially open doors to better financial opportunities. Remember, a healthy credit score is a valuable asset that can positively impact your financial wellbeing.
