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How to Improve Your Credit Score Going into the New Year

While you look back at your last 12 months of finances—looking at where you were on target and where you may have slipped up—why not also take a look at your credit score and focus on getting it higher? Invest some time in starting the new year on stronger financial footing by following these tips for improving your credit score in 2011:

1. Understand the basics of your credit report.
2. Get a free estimate of your credit score.
3. Establish a pattern of responsible credit behavior.
4. Pay your bills on time.
5. Make more than the minimum payment when paying off long-term debts.
6. Don’t open too many new accounts.
7. Start paying off credit card debt rather than moving your balance to new cards.
8. Keep credit balances low in relation to your available credit.
9. Review your credit reports regularly.
10. Contact credit bureaus if you spot any errors on your report.

Your credit rating determines everything from whether you qualify for a mortgage to whether you can get a car loan. It can also help determine whether you'll be able to rent an apartment or get a particular job. For more tips on improving your score and keeping it in top form in the new year, read our Take Control of Your Credit Score brochure. Download now.