Check your credit reports from all three major bureaus: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion
Use official sources such as AnnualCreditReport.com or the bureaus’ own websites
Review all account details for errors, outdated information, or unfamiliar activity
Dispute any inaccuracies directly with the credit bureau and the creditor
Make sure your personal information is correct, including name, address, and Social Security number
Verify that all open and closed accounts are reported accurately
Confirm that payment history, balances, and credit limits are correct
Check for duplicate accounts or accounts that do not belong to you
Monitor your credit regularly for changes or suspicious activity
Use the same scoring model lenders commonly use when possible
Avoid relying on free scores from apps or banks without checking the model used
Keep credit card balances low before checking your score
Pay bills on time consistently
Limit new credit applications before applying for loans
Maintain older accounts to preserve credit history
Use credit monitoring services if you want ongoing updates