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5 Steps to Help Rebuild Your Credit

Rebuilding your credit can seem like an overwhelming task, but it's important to remember that it's a process that takes time and dedication. The first step is to get a clear understanding of your credit report and score. You can get a free copy of your credit report once a year from each of the three major credit bureaus: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.


Once you have your report, review it carefully and look for any errors or inaccuracies. If you find any, be sure to dispute them with the credit bureau. This can help improve your score almost immediately.


Next, start making a plan to pay down any outstanding debts. Focus on paying off high-inte


rest credit cards first, as these can have a big impact on your credit utilization ratio. Ideally, you should aim to keep your credit utilization below 30% of your available credit.


In addition to paying down debt, it's important to make all of your payments on time. Late payments can have a significant negative impact on your credit score. Set up automatic payments or reminders to help ensure that you don't miss any due dates.


Finally, be patient and persistent. Rebuilding your credit won't happen overnight, but with consistent effort, you can make progress and improve your score over time. And remember, a healthier credit score can open up new opportunities and help you achieve your financial goals.

1. Reduce your credit card balances

Another important factor in your credit score is your credit utilization ratio. This is the amount of credit you’re using compared to the amount of credit you have available. If you’re using a high percentage of your available credit, it could negatively impact your credit score.

One way to improve your credit utilization ratio is by paying down your credit card balances. You might consider focusing on paying off your highest interest rate credit card first. Or you could try transferring your balances to a card with a lower interest rate.


2. Don’t close unused credit accounts

Closing unused credit accounts might seem like a good idea. But it could actually hurt your credit score. That’s because closing accounts reduces the amount of credit you have available. And if you have balances on other credit accounts, your credit utilization ratio could go up.

So if you’re considering closing an account, think carefully about the impact it could have on your credit score. You might consider keeping the account open and using it occasionally for small purchases.


3. Apply for credit sparingly

When you apply for credit, the lender will typically check your credit report. This is called a hard inquiry. And too many hard inquiries in a short period of time could negatively affect your credit score.


So it’s important to apply for credit sparingly. And when you do apply for credit, try to do it within a short period of time. This is because credit bureaus typically group multiple inquiries made within a short period of time into a single inquiry.


4. Consider a secured credit card

If you’re having trouble getting approved for a traditional credit card, a secured credit card might be a good option. Secured credit cards require a security deposit. And the credit limit is usually equal to the amount of the security deposit.

Using a secured credit card responsibly can help you build your credit. And over time, you might be able to qualify for a traditional credit card.


5. Seek professional help if needed

Rebuilding your credit can be a long and challenging process. But you don’t have to do it alone. Consider seeking professional help from a credit counseling agency or financial advisor. They can help you create a plan for improving your credit and provide guidance along the way.


How long does it take to rebuild credit?

Rebuilding credit can take time. And just how long it takes to rebuild credit depends on your circumstances. Things like your current score, factors affecting it and more all play a part in how long it takes to rebuild credit.

The good news is most things won’t impact your score forever. And the effects of negative factors may lessen over time. Being patient and forming good habits can eventually pay off in the long run!


Credit cards and rebuilding credit

Even if you’re just starting out, it may be worth researching credit cards. With responsible use, you could use a credit card to help rebuild your credit. Capital One offers secured and traditional credit cards for people with fair credit, as well as a secured card for those rebuilding their credit.

If you’re unsure which card might be a good fit, you can find out first whether you’re pre-approved for some Capital One credit cards. This takes just 60 seconds and doesn’t impact your credit score.

Remember, building better credit takes a little time. But it’s possible with responsible financial behavior. And it’s never too late to get started.


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