Amanda Peterson
March 15, 2024
• 2 Minute Read
A credit score in the 500s can feel like being stuck in neutral. You're not making significant progress, but you're also not locked out of everything. The good news is, with some focused effort, you can climb out of the 500s and into a more favorable credit zone. CreditSoup has 5 key strategies to get you started:
1. Become a Payment Pro:
Your payment history is the single biggest factor impacting your credit score (about 35% according to FICO). Make on-time payments a priority. Set up automatic payments for all your bills to avoid late fees and negative marks on your credit report.
2. Tame Your Credit Utilization:
This ratio represents how much credit you're using compared to your total limit. Aim for a utilization rate below 30%. Pay down existing debt and avoid maxing out your credit cards. If your limits are low, consider negotiating an increase with your issuer (but only if you can resist the urge to spend more!).
3. Build a Credit History:
If you have limited credit history, getting a secured credit card can be a smart move. These cards require a security deposit that serves as your credit limit. Use the card responsibly and pay your balance on time to establish a positive credit footprint.
4. Embrace a Credit Mix:
FICO scoring models favor a healthy mix of credit types, such as credit cards and installment loans (like auto loans or mortgages). If you only have credit cards, consider applying for a secured loan to diversify your credit profile. Remember, applying for too much credit in a short period can backfire, so space out any new applications.
- Credit Recommended:
- Poor, Fair, Good
- Products Offered
- Buy Now. Pay Later
- Coverage
- Nationwide
- Credit Recommended
- Poor, Fair, Good
Highlights
- Sezzle enables you to obtain no-interest loans for purchases.
- No hard credit check.
- Simple, transparent 6-week payment plan.
- With the Sezzle subscription, Sezzle Anywhere, shoppers can shop at any retailer (in store and in person) and pay in 4 with Sezzle.
See additional details for Sezzle
5. Fight the Errors:
Review your credit reports regularly (you can get a free copy from each bureau annually at Annual Credit Report: https://www.annualcreditreport.com/) and dispute any errors you find. Inaccurate information can bring down your score. The faster you address mistakes, the better.
If you're not certain what your credit score currently is, feel free to check your score for FREE here on our CreditSoup site: https://www.creditsoup.com/free-credit-score/
In Summary, Patience Is Key
Rebuilding credit takes time and consistent effort. Stay focused on these strategies, and you'll gradually see your score climb. There are also non-profit credit counseling services available that can provide guidance and support on your credit journey.
By following these steps, you can break free from the 500s and unlock a world of better credit opportunities. Remember, CreditSoup is always here to serve up financial knowledge you can use – so keep checking back for more credit-building tips and tricks!
Editorial Disclaimer: Information in these articles is brought to you by CreditSoup. Banks, issuers, and credit card companies mentioned in the articles do not endorse or guarantee, and are not responsible for, the contents of the articles. The information is accurate to the best of our knowledge when posted; however, all credit card information is presented without warranty. Please check the issuer’s website for the most current information.