Check your credit reports from all three bureaus
Identify each delinquent account and verify the details
Dispute any inaccurate, outdated, or duplicate delinquency entries
Bring past-due accounts current as soon as possible
Pay off charged-off or collection accounts if possible
Negotiate a pay-for-delete or goodwill adjustment when available
Set up payment plans for accounts you cannot pay in full
Ask creditors to update the account status after payment
Keep all future payments on time
Use autopay or reminders to avoid missed payments
Reduce credit card balances to lower utilization
Avoid opening unnecessary new accounts
Add positive credit history with secured cards or credit-builder loans
Monitor your credit reports regularly for updates
Wait for accurate negative items to age off your report