Credit Improvement

How to Increase Your Credit Score Before Applying

High-impact steps you can take in the 30–90 days before your application.

7 min readUpdated 2026Credit Improvement

Bring balances down

Aim for under 30% utilization per card, ideally under 10%. Pay before the statement cuts, not just before the due date.

Don't close old accounts

Length of history and available credit both help. Closing an old card can hurt both.

Avoid new credit

Skip financing furniture, opening new cards, or co-signing loans until after closing.

Key takeaways

  • Low utilization is the fastest lever.
  • Preserve old accounts.
  • No new credit before applying.

Frequently asked questions

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