Read your credit report before the lender does

Your credit score is only one part of the picture. Review the accounts, payment history, credit limits and recent enquiries shown in your report. If an account is unfamiliar or incorrectly marked, raise a dispute with the relevant bureau and lender.

Pay on time, every time

Payment history is a major signal of repayment behaviour. Automate minimum payments as a safety net, but aim to clear the full card bill whenever possible.

Keep utilisation controlled

Using most of an available card limit can indicate financial pressure even when payments are on time. Spreading routine spending responsibly and paying before the statement date may keep reported utilisation lower.

Avoid rapid-fire applications

Multiple credit applications in a short period may create several hard enquiries. Compare eligibility and costs first, then apply selectively.

Build a realistic improvement plan

  • Correct report errors
  • Clear overdue amounts
  • Reduce revolving balances
  • Keep older well-managed accounts active when suitable
  • Review progress after updated information is reported
  • No legitimate service can guarantee a particular score increase or loan approval. Improvement takes time and depends on the accuracy of your records and repayment behaviour.