Check your credit reports from all three bureaus
Dispute any errors or inaccurate accounts
Pay all bills on time
Set up automatic payments or reminders
Pay down credit card balances
Keep credit utilization low
Avoid closing old credit accounts
Avoid opening too many new accounts at once
Bring past-due accounts current
Negotiate payment plans with creditors
Ask for goodwill adjustments on late payments
Become an authorized user on a well-managed account
Consider a secured credit card if needed
Use a credit-builder loan if appropriate
Keep older accounts active when possible
Limit hard inquiries on your credit
Monitor your credit regularly
Avoid debt settlement unless necessary
Work with a reputable nonprofit credit counselor if needed