Last Updated on May 24, 2025 by admin
A strong credit score can unlock better loan rates, credit card approvals, and financial opportunities. If your score needs a boost, it’s possible to raise your credit score by 100 points within 90 days with the right strategies. Here’s how you can do it.
1. Check Your Credit Report for Errors
Mistakes on your credit report can lower your score. Get a free copy of your report from AnnualCreditReport.com and look for:
- Incorrect personal information
- Accounts that don’t belong to you
- Late payments you actually made on time
- Accounts reported as unpaid that you settled Dispute any errors with the credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion) to remove them.
2. Pay Down Credit Card Balances
Credit utilization—the percentage of available credit you use—makes up 30% of your score. Keep your usage below 30%, and ideally under 10%, for the best results.
How to Lower Utilization Quickly:
- Make multiple payments throughout the month
- Request a credit limit increase
- Pay off high-interest cards first
3. Always Pay on Time
Payment history is the biggest factor in your credit score (35%). A single late payment can drop your score significantly.
Tips to Stay Current:
- Set up autopay for at least the minimum payment
- Use payment reminders or calendar alerts
- If you’ve missed a payment, contact your lender and ask for a goodwill adjustment
4. Become an Authorized User
Ask a family member or close friend with good credit to add you as an authorized user on their credit card. Their positive history can boost your score without you needing to use the card.
5. Open a New Credit Account (Only If Needed)
A new credit card or credit-builder loan can improve your credit mix and utilization if managed well. Look for:
- Secured credit cards
- Retail store cards (if you can pay them off monthly)
- Credit-builder loans from credit unions
Learn more about choosing the best credit cards for beginners
6. Keep Old Accounts Open
The length of your credit history matters. Even if you don’t use an old credit card, keep it open to maintain your average account age.
7. Diversify Your Credit Mix
Having a combination of credit cards, installment loans, and retail accounts shows lenders you can handle different types of credit responsibly.
8. Limit Hard Inquiries
Too many hard credit inquiries (when you apply for new credit) can hurt your score. Only apply for credit when necessary and space out applications over time.
Final Thoughts
Raising your credit score by 100 points in 90 days is possible with consistent effort. Focus on paying bills on time, reducing balances, and maintaining healthy credit habits. The better your score, the more financial opportunities you’ll have in the future.