How to Improve Your Credit Score Right Now

Want to get better loan rates, rent an apartment easier, or just feel more confident about your money? A higher credit score can make all of that happen. The good news? You don’t need a magic formula – just a few clear steps you can start today.

Check What Lenders See

The first thing to do is pull your credit report from the major bureaus. In the UK you can get a free statutory report once a year, and many banks let you view it online anytime. Look for any errors – a typo in your name, an account you never opened, or a balance that’s wrong. If something looks off, raise a dispute right away. Fixing even one mistake can add a few points to your score.

Pay the Right Bills First

Credit scores care about two things most people forget: payment history and credit utilisation. Paying every bill on time is the single biggest factor. Set up automatic payments for at least the minimum due, then add extra money when you can. On the utilisation side, try to keep the total amount you owe on revolving accounts (like credit cards) under 30 % of the limit. If your card limit is £2,000, aim to stay below £600. If you’re close to the ceiling, ask the bank for a higher limit – the debt stays the same, the percentage drops, and your score improves.

What about older debts? If you have a loan that’s been paid off, keep the account open for a while. The length of your credit history counts, and closing old accounts can shave points.

Now let’s talk about the posts on our site that can help you along the way. Our article “Do Consolidation Loans Affect Your Credit Score? Everything You Need to Know” explains how a debt‑consolidation loan can actually lower your utilisation ratio, giving you a quick boost. If you’re worried whether a loan will hurt you, the piece “Lowest Credit Score for Loan Approval: What Lenders Really Accept in 2025” breaks down the exact cut‑offs lenders use, so you know where you stand before you apply.

Another common question is whether your credit score matters when you remortgage. The post “Does Your Credit Score Impact Remortgaging? Everything UK Homeowners Need to Know” shows how a higher score can shave hundreds of pounds off your mortgage rate. It also offers a step‑by‑step plan to improve your score before you start the remortgage process.

Besides the big moves, there are a few everyday habits that add up. Use a budgeting method like the 50‑30‑20 rule (50 % needs, 30 % wants, 20 % savings) to keep spending in check. Too much debt can trigger missed payments, and that hurts fast.

If you’ve hit a low point – say a credit score around 450 – don’t write it off. The article “Can You Get a Loan with a 450 Credit Score? Tips and Lenders That Might Say Yes” lists lenders who still work with low scores and shows how a small, timely repayment can start moving the needle.

Finally, remember that credit improvement isn’t a one‑time fix. Keep monitoring your score every few months, stay on top of payments, and adjust your utilisation as your limits change. In a few months you’ll see the numbers climb, and with a better score comes cheaper loans, smoother renting, and more financial freedom.