Managing Your Credit

Effective credit management is the key to maintaining and improving your credit score over time. Learn the habits and strategies that lead to credit success.

The Four Pillars of Credit Management

Payment Management

Strategies for never missing a payment

Set up automatic payments for at least the minimum due
Create calendar reminders 5 days before due dates
Align due dates with your pay schedule if possible
Pay more than minimum when you can afford it

Utilization Control

Keep your credit usage in the optimal range

Keep overall utilization below 30%
Aim for under 10% for maximum score impact
Pay down balances before statement closing dates
Request credit limit increases when possible

Account Protection

Safeguard your credit accounts

Enable fraud alerts on all accounts
Review statements monthly for unauthorized charges
Use strong unique passwords for financial accounts
Enable two-factor authentication where available

Strategic Growth

Build credit strength over time

Keep oldest accounts open to maintain credit age
Add new accounts strategically not impulsively
Diversify credit types (revolving and installment)
Consider a credit-builder loan if needed

Credit Utilization Strategies

The 30/10 Rule

Never exceed 30% utilization aim for 10%

Example: If your credit limit is $10000 keep balances below $3000 ideally below $1000

Statement Balance Timing

Pay down before statement closes

Example: Pay on the 20th if your statement closes on the 25th to report lower utilization

Multiple Payment Strategy

Make several payments per month

Example: Pay $200 every Friday instead of $800 once a month to keep balances consistently low

Key Metrics to Track

Credit Score

Check monthly

Utilization

Keep under 30%

Payment Dates

Never miss one

Total Debt

Track monthly

Need Help Managing Your Credit?

Our experts can help you create a personalized credit management plan and fix any issues holding your score back.

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