BOOST YOUR CREDIT IN 90 DAYS — PRACTICAL STEPS

Credit scores move for predictable reasons, which is good news if you want results in three months. Focus on the two levers that matter most—on‑time payments and credit utilization—and then clean up any data mistakes that are weighing you down. Build a routine you can follow without thinking and your score will reflect it.

Begin with the foundation. Turn on autopay for the minimum on every card so a busy week can’t cause a late mark. Then pick a “pay‑to‑zero” day a few days after statements cut. That way the number reported to the bureaus stays low even if you put regular spending on your cards for rewards or convenience.

Control Utilization

Utilization is the percentage of available credit you’re using. Lower is better. Aim for under thirty percent overall and under ten percent on your largest card. If spending spikes one month, make a mid‑cycle payment—statement balances matter more than daily balances. When the option is available without a hard inquiry, a modest credit‑limit increase can help your ratios too.

Fix What’s Wrong on Paper

Pull reports from the major bureaus and look for errors: limits recorded incorrectly, accounts that should be closed, or late payments that don’t belong to you. Dispute with documentation. It’s not exciting, but a small correction can have a bigger impact than months of micromanaging spending.

Keep the Gains

After the ninety‑day sprint, make the habits permanent. Keep alerts on for unusual charges. Review statements once a month. Put your “pay‑to‑zero” date on the calendar and let it repeat. Good credit is mostly the absence of mistakes spread over time.

Connect the Dots

Budgeting and credit health support each other. If you need a simple system to keep bills paid and cash flowing, try the Budgeting Envelope Method. When money frees up, start building a small investment habit with Start Investing with $100.