Just 1 late payment can drop your score 100+ points. Set autopay for the minimum to avoid disasters. Apps like Experian Boost help!

Maxing cards? Ask for limit increases or pay mid-cycle 

Having both installment loans (car) and revolving credit (cards) boosts scores. No mix? Try a credit-builder loan from Self or Credit Strong. 

Get free reports at AnnualCreditReport.com. Dispute inaccuracies (late payments, wrong balances) via Credit Karma or directly with bureaus. 

Image:  Card Insider

Closing old cards shortens credit history and raises utilization. Keep them open with a $5/month charge to avoid dormancy. 

Image:  SumUp

Put down a $200 deposit (Discover/Capital One). Use lightly, pay on time—it converts to unsecured in 6-12 months! 

Image:  WallStreetMojo